Light-Based Home-Use Hair Removal Devices: A Cross-Sectional Survey

BACKGROUND: The use of light-based home-use hair removal devices has seen a significant increase in the last decade all over the world. Home-based devices would be especially more relevant in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, with patients having less access to laser hair removal in clinics. This survey attempted to evaluate the practices-related use of light-based home-use hair removal devices in our region and also to assess patient satisfaction related to the same. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey using an electronic questionnaire. RESULTS: Out of a total of 111 valid responses, 39 had used light-based home-use hair removal devices. The most common type used was intense pulse light-based devices. On a scale of 1–10, the average satisfaction with the product for hair removal was 6.07. Incidence of side effects was very low (only 4 out of 39 mentioned side effects), and the most common side effects mentioned were redness, “bumps,” burns, and discoloration on the lased sites. CONCLUSIONS: The frequency of use of light-based home hair removal devices is quite high in our region. Patients seem to be satisfied with the same, and the incidence of side effects is low in our population.