Many different light-based systems can successfully remove unwanted hair. The majority of laser and light-based systems used today appear to be equivalent in efficacy. The decision of which system to use is likely to be based largely on practitioner experience with a particular system and also on patient population treated. (Nd:YAG lasers are preferred by many for darker skin types.)
Although significant advances in light-based hair removal have been made, questions as to appropriate treatment intervals remain. It is clear that a simple understanding of anagen and telogen cycles does not adequately predict what time intervals between laser sessions are optimal.
Finally, home-based light-based hair removal systems are soon to be available throughout the world. These technologies have the potential to replace other temporary home methods for the removal of unwanted hair. It can be expected that home-based devices will deliver lesser energies than seen with the larger office-based units, making them quite safe. However, the lesser-delivered fluences will also make them less effective. How these home-based devices will affect the office-based laser hair removal market is yet to be determined.