High-tech hair removal using intense pulsed light (IPL) technology is exceptionally safe on all skin types, even among patients with dark or ethnic skin, according to a clinical study commissioned by Cornell University and published in the December 2002 issue of Cosmetic Dermatology. The study, conducted by Harvey Jay, M.D. of New York City, tracked the safety of IPL hair removal experiences in 250 consecutive new patients. All skin types were included in the study group with 77% having dark complexions. Researchers reported a less than 3% incidence of minor, temporary side effects, including pigment changes and acne-like rashes.

"This is one of the largest and most comprehensive clinical studies to focus on the safety of laser or pulsed light," says Dr. Jay, Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical School, New York City. "Unlike previously published studies, we did not pre-screen our participants to exclude those with darker skin types who are typically more prone to side effects. We also treated entire body areas instead of test patches. Our findings show that in the right setting, with the right tools, with an expert dermatologist, successful and safe laser or pulsed light hair removal can be the norm for patients of virtually any skin color."

Dr. Jay notes many people are interested in long-lasting hair removal but are concerned about the risk of adverse side effects. He went on to say that his patients' worries have been exacerbated by media reports about the rise of patient complications from non-medical inexperienced practitioners who claim to safely perform hair removal on all skin types with one laser or light device in spas, salons and walk-in clinics.