Comparing Intense Pulsed Light and Diode Laser for Hair Removal

Hair Removal by Intense Pulsed Light Versus Diode Laser: Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Not applicable Interventional University of Nove de Julho · NCT06179186

This study is testing which hair removal method, Intense Pulsed Light or Diode Laser, works better for women in the underarm area after a series of treatments.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment62 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity of Nove de Julho Academic / other
Locations2 sites (São Paulo, SP and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06179186 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of two hair removal techniques, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Diode Laser, specifically in the underarm area of women. Participants will undergo four treatment sessions, one month apart, followed by evaluations at 30 days and 6 months post-treatment. The study will assess hair density, thickness, pain levels during procedures, and overall satisfaction and quality of life before and after the treatments. The goal is to determine which method provides better long-term results in hair removal.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 18 and older with dark hair in the axillary region and Fitzpatrick skin phototype I to IV.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions affecting hair production or those who have recently used certain medications or hair removal methods may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the most effective hair removal method, enhancing patient satisfaction and treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown varying success with both IPL and Diode Laser techniques, but this specific comparative approach is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Female patients,
* aged 18 and older,
* with a complaint of hair in the axillary region,
* Fitzpatrick skin phototype I to IV,
* presenting dark hair

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who have used medications that alter hair production,
* Patients who have used medications that are photosensitizing,
* Patients who have used isotretinoin or vitamin A-synthesized acids, antibiotics such as tetracycline,
* Patients using anticoagulant
* Patients with vitiligo or epilepsy,
* Pregnant or lactating individuals,
* those with active herpes,
* Patient with history of tumors,
* Patient with axillary scarring (hyper or hypotrophic),
* Patient who have used another method of hair removal involving complete hair removal by pulling with a minimum period of 30 days from the date of the initial assessment, or have used another laser hair removal method in the treatment area,
* Immunocompromised patients,
* Patients with sun-sensitive skin with inflammation,
* Individuals with psoriasis,
* Patients with tattoos on the application site,
* Patients who have undergone ovary removal or have reached menopause

Where this trial is running

São Paulo, SP and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hair Removalhair removaldiode laserphotoepilationintense pulsed lightepilationDepilation
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.