Effectiveness of Light-Emitting Diode Epilation on Different Skin Types: A Pilot Study.

Objective: This study analyzed the histological and immunohistochemical changes in hair follicles submitted to epilation with light-emitting diode (LED). Background: The use of specific wavelengths of LED leads to the absorption of photons by chromophore tissues, enabling different photophysical and photochemical events, bringing therapeutic benefits such as removing body hair. Methods: The sample included five participants, with phototypes II-V, divided into two groups. The volunteers received a session of epilation with the Holonyak® device on the pubic region and right groin, whereas the contralateral side was kept as a control. An energy of 10 J and a cooling temperature of -5°C were used, after which the pain provoked by the equipment was questioned using the analogue pain scale. After 45 days, the punching procedure was performed in the region where skin samples were taken for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Results: For all phototypes, in the treated area, the follicles and sebaceous glands were in a stage of involution, showing perifollicular inflammatory infiltrate with changes suggestive of apoptosis. The apoptosis process was confirmed by the increase in markers cytokeratin-18 and cleaved caspase 3, in addition to the reduced expression of Blc-2, and the lower cell proliferation (Ki67), reinforcing the action of LED based on the definite involution and resorption of the follicle, through macrophages (CD68) triggered by the inflammatory process. Conclusions: The preliminary results of this study found relevant histological changes and immunohistochemical markers in the epilation process, which may indicate the efficacy of LED in permanent hair removal.

Biochemical characterization of a partially purified protease from Aspergillus terreus 7461 and its application as an environmentally friendly dehairing agent for leather industry.

Proteases can be used in several biotechnological processes including detergent, food and leather industries. In the leather industry, dehairing is carried out by chemicals, which pollute the environment. Therefore, to make the hair removal process environmentally friendly, a protease produced by Aspergillus terreus has been purified, biochemically characterized and had an efficient ability to remove hair from bovine leather. The protease was produced using 1% wheat bran and was purified 2.3-fold using two chromatographic steps showing a molecular weight of 90 kDa. Optimal temperature and pH were 50 °C and 6.5, respectively. Thermal stability was up to 1 h at 50 °C. Protease was stable to detergents like Tween 80 and to organic solvents. The activity was activated by Ca2+ and inhibited by Hg2+ and Cu2+. The enzyme was classified as serine protease, by the inhibition by PMSF and was stable to reducing agents. It hydrolyzed casein, azocasein, BSA, egg albumin and BTpNA. The Km and Vmax values were 0.65 ± 0.03 mg/mL and 3.66 ± 0.18 µmol/min, respectively. Remarkable properties about temperature, pH, stability to detergents and reducing agents ensure that the protease from A. terreus can be an excellent candidate for industrial applications, particularly in the leather industry.

Standardized production of a homogeneous latex enzyme source overcoming seasonality and microenvironmental variables.

Calotropis procera produces a milky sap containing proteolytic enzymes. At low concentrations, they induce milk-clotting (60 µg/ml) and to dehair hides (0.05 and 0.1%). A protocol for obtaining the enzymes is reported. The latex was mixed with distilled water and the mixture was cleaned through centrifugation. It was dialyzed with distilled water and centrifuged again to recover the soluble fraction [EP]. The dialyze is a key feature of the process. EP was characterized in terms of protein profile, chemical stability, among other criteria. Wild plants belonging to ten geographic regions and grown in different ecological conditions were used as latex source. Collections were carried out, spaced at three-month, according to the seasons at the site of the study. Proteolytic activity was measured as an internal marker and for determining stability of the samples. EP was also analyzed for metal content and microbiology. EP showed similar magnitude of proteolysis, chromatographic and electrophoretic profiles of proteins. Samples stored at 25 °C exhibited reduced solubility (11%) and proteolytic capacity (11%) after six months. Enzyme autolysis was negligible. Microbiological and metal analyses revealed standard quality of all the samples tested. EP induced milk clotting and hide dehairing after storage for up to six months.

Efficacy and safety of ND:YAG 1064 nm lasers for photoepilation: a systematic review.

Using light sources in phototherapy has presented promising results regarding several types of facial and body skin affections for centuries. The neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (ND:YAG) 1064 nm laser has become a standard treatment in dermatology for dermatological disturbances related to the pilous follicle and the structures surrounding it. Despite the reports of its clinical benefits, few scientific studies show its actual safety and efficacy. To substantiate the effects, benefits, and safety of applying an ND:YAG 1064 laser in the epilation process during esthetic treatment, a systematic review was carried out between October 2018 and January 2019, on studies published in the last 20 years. Randomized clinical trials in humans were considered that evaluated the efficacy, safety, and benefits of ND:YAG laser application at 1064 nm wavelengths for hair removal. A total of 198 articles were identified; 58 articles remained after their titles and abstracts were read; and 21 articles were selected after the removal of duplicates. After the integral reading, 13 of these articles were included in the systematic review (734 patients). The ND:YAG 1064 nm laser presents safety and promising, beneficial effects in epilation. However, further scientific studies with better methodologic quality are necessary to better standardize ND:YAG laser therapy and clarify its parameters for photoepilation.

Influence of facial threading on various physiological parameters of the skin: non-randomized trial involving adult women in Taiwan

Abstract: Background: Facial threading involves the removal of hairs to restore facial skin smoothness. However, its effectiveness has not been rigorously evaluated. Objective: To evaluate effects of facial threading on skin roughness, hydration, melanin index, and vellus hair on the face, complemented by a subjective evaluation of the tactile feel of the skin and improvement in skin color. Method: Participants who had not used exfoliators for two weeks before the experiment were included. Each participant underwent one session of facial threading every 21 days, for a total of 3 sessions. A three-dimensional skin roughness instrument and a multifunctional skin testing system were used to evaluate changes in roughness, hydration, and pigmentation on the forehead, cheeks, and corners of the mouth. A photomicrographic camera was used to record changes in vellus hair. Subjective reports of skin smoothness and color were recorded. Result: Eighteen participants completed the study. Facial threading produced a significant decrease in skin roughness on the forehead (22.42%, p = .013), right cheek (77%, p = .02), and left corner of the mouth (33.02%, p = .001). Subjective improvement in tactile feel of the skin and coloring were reported. Study Limitations: The study did not include randomization, with further limitations of a small sample size and a single site. Conclusion: Facial threading reduced skin roughness by 26.74% after three threading sessions, with improved subjective assessment of tactile feel and coloring. Future research should include a comparison with other cosmetic products with similar beautifying effects or a control group.

Influence of facial threading on various physiological parameters of the skin: non-randomized trial involving adult women in Taiwan.

BACKGROUND: Facial threading involves the removal of hairs to restore facial skin smoothness. However, its effectiveness has not been rigorously evaluated. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate effects of facial threading on skin roughness, hydration, melanin index, and vellus hair on the face, complemented by a subjective evaluation of the tactile feel of the skin and improvement in skin color. METHOD: Participants who had not used exfoliators for two weeks before the experiment were included. Each participant underwent one session of facial threading every 21 days, for a total of 3 sessions. A three-dimensional skin roughness instrument and a multifunctional skin testing system were used to evaluate changes in roughness, hydration, and pigmentation on the forehead, cheeks, and corners of the mouth. A photomicrographic camera was used to record changes in vellus hair. Subjective reports of skin smoothness and color were recorded. RESULT: Eighteen participants completed the study. Facial threading produced a significant decrease in skin roughness on the forehead (22.42%, p = .013), right cheek (77%, p = .02), and left corner of the mouth (33.02%, p = .001). Subjective improvement in tactile feel of the skin and coloring were reported. STUDY LIMITATIONS: The study did not include randomization, with further limitations of a small sample size and a single site. CONCLUSION: Facial threading reduced skin roughness by 26.74% after three threading sessions, with improved subjective assessment of tactile feel and coloring. Future research should include a comparison with other cosmetic products with similar beautifying effects or a control group.

A península na ritidoplastia / The peninsula in rhytidoplasty

Introdução: A ascensão do pé do cabelo é um estigma frequente e desagradável nas ritidoplastias. Para contornar esse problema, criamos a técnica da Península em meados de 1999. Inicialmente utilizada nas faces secundárias, sua indicação foi ampliada, tornando-se imprescindível nos casos primários de implantação alta do cabelo e naqueles pacientes que necessitariam de grande ressecção de pele. Métodos: O total de ritidoplastias realizadas foi de 7356, tendo sido operados 2512 pacientes utilizando a técnica da Península, no período que cursa entre 1999 e 2016, com idade média de 48 anos, sendo 98% dos pacientes do sexo feminino e 2% do sexo masculino. A técnica apresenta três variantes. Resultados: Os pacientes continuaram, posteriormente, em acompanhamento mensal até a alta ao final de 6 meses. Dentre os resultados, surgiram algumas complicações, comuns a qualquer tipo de cirurgia da face. Na grande maioria dos casos, com a utilização da Península, foi possível a realização de uma boa tração cutânea, com maior correção do terço médio, mantendo a linha de implantação capilar. Conclusão: Podemos concluir que a técnica da Península é um recurso único, de fácil reprodução, capaz de reduzir a curva de aprendizado em ritidoplastias, uma vez que permite generosa ressecção de pele sem alteração da implantação capilar, atuando de modo a evitar estigmas pós-cirúrgicos e otimizando a qualidade dos resultados e satisfação por parte dos pacientes, com pequeno ônus cicatricial.

Introduction: High implantation of the hairline by the ear is a frequent, unpleasant stigma in rhytidoplasties. To overcome this problem, we created the Peninsula technique in the mid-1999. Initially used in secondary face liftings, its indication has since been broadened, becoming indispensable in primary cases of high hair implantation and in patients requiring major skin resection. Methods: The total number of rhytidoplasties performed was 7,356, with 2,512 patients operated using the Peninsula technique from 1999 to 2016. Mean age was 48, 98% were females and 2% males. The technique presents three variants. Results: Patients were monitored on a monthly basis until discharge at the end of six months. Among the results, there were some complications, which are usual in any type of facial surgery. In the great majority of cases, with the use of the Peninsula, it was possible to obtain good skin traction, with the greater correction of the mid third, maintaining the capillary implantation line. Conclusion: We can conclude that the Peninsula technique is a unique resource, easily reproducible, capable of reducing the learning curve in rhytidoplasty, as it allows generous skin resection without changing capillary implantation, avoiding post-surgical stigma and optimizing the quality of the results and patient satisfaction, with a little scar burden.

Comparison of the effect of diode laser versus intense pulsed light in axillary hair removal.

BACKGROUND: Devices such as diode laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) are in constant development aiming at permanent hair removal, but there are few comparative studies between these technologies. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to comparatively assess axillary hair removal performed by diode laser and IPL and to obtain parameters of referred pain and evolution response for each method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comparative prospective, double-blind, and randomized study of axillary hair removal performed by the diode laser and IPL was conducted in 21 females. Six sessions were held with application of the diode laser in one axilla and the IPL in the other, with intervals of 30 days and follow-up of 6 months after the last session. Clinical photographs and digital dermoscopy for hair counts in predefined and fixed fields of the treated areas were performed before, 2 weeks after the sixth session, and 6 months after the end of treatment. A questionnaire to assess the pain was applied. RESULTS: The number of hair shafts was significantly reduced with the diode laser and IPL. The diode laser was more effective, although more painful than the IPL. No serious, adverse, or permanent effects were observed with both technologies. CONCLUSION: Both diode laser and the IPL are effective, safe, and able to produce lasting results in axillary hair removal.

Hypertrichosis lanuginosa congenita treated with diode laser epilation during infancy.

We report the case of a girl with hypertrichosis lanuginosa congenita treated with diode laser depilation since the age of 9 months. The treatment was well tolerated, and neither general nor local anesthesia was needed. A reduction of approximately 80% of facial and body hair was noted, which improved her condition significantly.

Hirsutism: from Brazil to a place near you.

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD: Hirsutism is the excess of terminal hairs in females and can result in immense distress. Women often spend significant time and funds seeking permanent hair removal. Commercially available physical therapies have usually already been accessed before presenting to the clinician for treatment. AREAS COVERED IN THE REVIEW: We give a brief outline of physical therapies in the treatment of hirsutism with an emphasis on recently emerging hand-held laser hair removal devices for home use, which will become an increasingly important hair removal modality. The current evidence for topical ornithine decarboxylase inhibitor, oral antiandrogens, ovarian suppression and insulin sensitizers in the treatment of hirsutism is also reviewed. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN: With advances in home laser hair removal systems the role of the clinician will increasingly become the use of pharmacotherapy in the treatment of resistant hirsutism. This article provides a review of the current literature for the use of pharmacotherapy. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: Despite the availability of a range of physical and pharmacotherapies for the treatment of hirsutism, permanent hair removal remains elusive.

Nuestra experiencia en luz pulsada intensa / Our experience in IPL

Objetivos: Evaluar eficacia y efectos adversos de luz pulsada intensa en fotoenvejecimiento, alteraciones vasculares y depilación. Diseño: Estudio observacional, prospectivo, longitudinal, descriptivo. Métodos: se analizaron 158 pacientes. Se confeccionó una ficha para cada paciente que consignaba datos de : sexo, edad fototipo, etnia, número de sesiones, datos específicos de equipo, efectos adversos y respuesta terapéutica. La respuesta terapéutica estaba subdividida a su vez en mala, buena y muy buena. Se realizaron fotografías digitales pre y postratamiento. Resultados: La respuesta terapéutica a nivel de fotodaño fue catalogada como buena en un 43% y muy buena en el 55%. Las reacciones adversas referidas fundamentalmente fueron dolor y ardor. Respecto a lesiones vasculares, la respuesta fue consignada como buena en un 50% y muy buena en el 42,3%. La principal reacción adversa relatada fue dolor. Se realizaron procedimientos de fotodepilación en 29 pacientes; la principal región anatómica involucrada fue el tercio inferior de rostro. De los pacientes sometidos a este procedimiento, 86% de ellos presentaron resultados muy buenos. La tolerancia al procedimiento fue buena en más de 70%, el número de sesiones variaron en un rango de 1 a 3. Conclusión: La LPI es una modalidad, segura y efectiva para fotoenvejecimiento, lesiones vasculares y tofodepilación, con escasos efectos adversos.

[Treatment of trichiasis with high-frequency radio wave electrosurgery]. / Eletrólise com radiofrequência no tratamento da triquíase.

PURPOSE: Trichiasis is an acquired condition in which the eyelashes are directed posteriorly, touching the surface of the cornea. It poses a complex therapeutic problem. Despite several therapeutic options (epilation, electroepilation, cryotherapy, laser ablation and standard surgical techniques), relapse is frequent. METHODS: A prospective, nonmasked study was conducted to determine the efficacy of high-frequency radioelectrosurgery for treatment of trichiasis. Thirty-four patients (fifty-four eyelid segments) were treated with this technique. After eight weeks, all patients were reviewed regarding the success rate, relapse and complications. RESULTS: Cure was achieved after only one session of treatment in twenty-two patients, and two or more sessions in the remaining twelve. No complications have been reported. CONCLUSIONS: We consider high-frequency radioelectrosurgery a simple, not expensive, effective and free of complications technique for the treatment of trichiasis.

Eletrólise com radiofrequência no tratamento da triquíase / Treatment of trichiasis with high-frequency radio wave electrosurgery

OBJETIVOS: Triquíase é uma condição adquirida dos cílios, que perdem o direcionamento normal e tocam a superfície ocular. O tratamento da triquíase tem sido um problema terapêutico. Apesar das várias modalidades de tratamento: epilação mecânica, eletrólise com bipolar, crioterapia, fotocoagulação com laser de argônio e procedimentos cirúrgicos, a recidiva da triquíase é comum. Com o objetivo de encontrar técnica próxima ao ideal, realizamos estudo utilizando eletrólise com aparelho de radiofreqüência, avaliando-se a efetividade da técnica. MÉTODOS: Foram estudados, prospectivamente, 34 pacientes (54 segmentos palpebrais) com triquíase, submetidos à eletrólise com aparelho de radiofreqüência. Reavaliaram-se os pacientes em oito semanas, quanto à cura, recidiva e possíveis complicações. RESULTADOS: Observou-se a cura da triquíase com apenas uma única sessão de eletrólise com radiofreqüência em 22 pacientes e com duas ou mais sessões em 12 pacientes. CONCLUSÃO: A eletrólise com aparelho de radiofreqüência é método simples, de baixo custo, que não demanda experiência do cirurgião, com ausência de complicações relevantes e com alto índice de sucesso.

PURPOSE: Trichiasis is an acquired condition in which the eyelashes are directed posteriorly, touching the surface of the cornea. It poses a complex therapeutic problem. Despite several therapeutic options (epilation, electroepilation, cryotherapy, laser ablation and standard surgical techniques), relapse is frequent. METHODS: A prospective, nonmasked study was conducted to determine the efficacy of high-frequency radioelectrosurgery for treatment of trichiasis. Thirty-four patients (fifty-four eyelid segments) were treated with this technique. After eight weeks, all patients were reviewed regarding the success rate, relapse and complications. RESULTS: Cure was achieved after only one session of treatment in twenty-two patients, and two or more sessions in the remaining twelve. No complications have been reported. CONCLUSIONS: We consider high-frequency radioelectrosurgery a simple, not expensive, effective and free of complications technique for the treatment of trichiasis.

Lasers in dermatology: four decades of progress

Advances in laser technology have progressed so rapidly during the past decade that successful treatment of many cutaneous concerns and congenital defects, including vascular and pigmented lesions, tattoos, scars, and unwanted hair-can be achieved. The demand for laser surgery has increased substantially by patients and dermatologists alike as a result of the relative ease with which many of these lesions can be removed, combined with a low incidence of adverse postoperative sequelae. Refinements in laser technology and technique have provided patients and practitioners with more therapeutic choices and improved clinical results. In this review, the currently available laser systems with cutaneous applications are outlined, with primary focus placed on recent advancements and modifications in laser technology that have greatly expanded the cutaneous laser surgeon's armamentarium and improved overall treatment efficacy and safety.

Laser em dermatologia: princípios físicos, tipos e indicaçöes / Laser in dermatology: phisycal principles, types and indications

O uso de laser em dermatologia tem se expandido muito nos últimos anos. O avanço tecnológico, em mais de 30 anos, permite que a eficácia e as respostas terapêuticas sejam cada vez melhores. Porém, mais complexos tornam-se a compreensäo do seu uso e suas indicaçöes em dermatologia

Methods of hair removal

The methods of hair removal vary between simple inexpensive means of home treatment (shaving, plucking, depilatories) to expensive and potentially time-consuming means used by paraprofessionals, nurses, and/or physicians (electrolysis, lasers, x-ray). The ways in which these different methods induce hair removal, the duration of such removal, and the nuances between devices within the same category of methods are discussed.

Hirsutismo en pediatría / Hirsutism in pediatrics

La presencia exagerada de pelo en niños prepúberes o en mujeres es un motivo de preocupación para el paciente y su familia por lo que el pediatra requiere seguir un adecuado camino en el diagnóstico diferencial, apoyándose principalmente en hechos de la anamnesis, examen físico y sólo en algunos casos se necesitará del apoyo de laboratorio o derivación al especialista. Este artículo revisa el tema del hirsutismo en forma clara y didáctica, para que el pediatra logre un adecuado enfoque del problema

Study of Bacillus sp. culture conditions to promote production of unhairing proteases.

The substitution of chemical depilatory agents in the leather industry by proteolytic enzymes produced by Bacillus species has an important economical and environmental impact. In previous assays, a Bacillus sp. showing a promising depilatory activity was isolated. In this paper, a culture medium that stimulated the synthesis and segregation of depilatory proteases, was selected. The influence of pH, oxygen supply rate (KLaC*), and inoculum age was evaluated on cell growth and protease production. Assays were carried out in lab bioreactors (1.2-1.4 l) at 37 degrees C. Five different media that differed in carbon and nitrogen sources were tested. pH ranged from 4.0 to 8.5. KLaC* varied between 40 and 470 mmol/lh. The best medium culture for protease production contained: nutrient broth (Britania) 8 g/l, yeast extract (Britania) 3 g/l, and mineral salts. Protease production was more effective at pH of 6.7, KLaC* of 360 mmol/lh, and inoculum age of 12 hours. These experimental conditions led to the following results: maximum proteolytic activity 2700 U/ml, overall volumetric protease productivity 300 u/ml-h, average specific growth rate 0.62 h-1, and average specific protease production rate 2.50 x 10(5) U/gh.