NEW evidence highlights the potential of laser hair removal and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy in reducing lesion count and flare-ups for patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). HS is a debilitating inflammatory skin disorder that affects areas where hair follicles and sweat glands are concentrated, causing painful nodules, abscesses, and scarring. While systemic and surgical treatments remain first-line, they often fall short of preventing recurrence, sparking interest in adjunctive therapies like IPL and laser treatments.
A systematic review assessed 10 clinical studies on laser and IPL therapy’s impact on HS, with a collective sample of 235 patients. Results showed significant reductions in inflammatory lesions in all studies, with decreases ranging from 50% to 75%, and some cases achieving complete remission of lesions. However, the duration of remission varied widely, suggesting that further research is needed to determine optimal treatment schedules for lasting results.
The review also highlights the value of these therapies in breaking the cycle of follicular occlusion and inflammation central to HS pathology. By targeting and reducing hair follicles, both IPL and laser treatments may decrease bacterial presence and follicle blockage, leading to fewer painful lesions and slower disease progression.
This study reinforces IPL and laser hair removal as effective additions to multidisciplinary HS treatment plans, especially for patients seeking alternatives to traditional options. Although the evidence is moderate and long-term outcomes require further study, laser and light-based therapies offer an additional pathway to improved quality of life for individuals managing this chronic condition.
Reference: Kanwal A et al. The efficacy of intense pulsed light and laser hair removal in hidradenitis suppurativa treatment. JDD. 2024;23(11):926.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
