CA2484400A1 - Method and apparatus for hair growth management - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for hair growth management Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2484400A1 CA2484400A1 CA002484400A CA2484400A CA2484400A1 CA 2484400 A1 CA2484400 A1 CA 2484400A1 CA 002484400 A CA002484400 A CA 002484400A CA 2484400 A CA2484400 A CA 2484400A CA 2484400 A1 CA2484400 A1 CA 2484400A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- hair
- follicle
- treatment area
- treatment
- matrix
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B18/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body
- A61B18/18—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body by applying electromagnetic radiation, e.g. microwaves
- A61B18/20—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body by applying electromagnetic radiation, e.g. microwaves using laser
- A61B18/203—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body by applying electromagnetic radiation, e.g. microwaves using laser applying laser energy to the outside of the body
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B18/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body
- A61B2018/00005—Cooling or heating of the probe or tissue immediately surrounding the probe
- A61B2018/00011—Cooling or heating of the probe or tissue immediately surrounding the probe with fluids
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B18/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body
- A61B2018/00315—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body for treatment of particular body parts
- A61B2018/00452—Skin
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B18/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body
- A61B2018/00315—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body for treatment of particular body parts
- A61B2018/00452—Skin
- A61B2018/00476—Hair follicles
Abstract
A method and apparatus are provided for hair growth management by applying l ow energy optical radiation to a treatment area of a patient's skin, which radiation is sufficient to at least traumatize a matrix portion of each follicle being treated, but not to cause either necrosis of most of each sai d follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein. The treatments are preferably performed a plurality of times at selected time intervals to achieve a desired level of hair growth management.
Description
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR HAIR GROWTH MANAGEMENT
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to hair growth management and more particularly to a method and apparatus for managing or controlling hair growth without causing immediate histological alterations of the hair follicle which are detectable by routine light microscopy or destruction of the hair shaft or at least a portion of the hair follicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1 o While there are some areas of a person's body where it is desired to permanently remove hair, for example facial or leg hair on a woman, frequently, for the hair indicated above as well as for undesired hair on other parts on both a man's and a woman's body, a lower level of hair growth management may be all that is desired. Hair growth management may involve temporary, for example for several weeks, or permanent 15 cessation of hair growth; temporarily or permanently changing, either increasing or decreasing, the hair growth rate; and/or temporarily or permanently changing selected characteristics of the hair shaft including, but not limited to, changing hair shaft diameter, shape, pigmentation, and mechanical properties such as elasticity and bend/curl. Hair growth management may involve removal of the hair shaft, destruction 20 of the hair shaft, and/or changes in the hair follicle structure. Most current techniques for hair management are techniques for hair removal by applying radiation to the patient's skin, generally optical radiation, in relatively high radiation doses sufficient to denature protein tissue of the hair follicle, and thus to generally cause necrosis of the follicle. The energy applied in such techniques also generally results in immediate destruction or 25 significant alterations of the hair shaft. However, the application of such high energy to a patient's skin can also cause damage to the patient's epidermis, particularly for darker skinned individuals, can in some instances cause dermal damage or scarring and, even with protective procedures such as cooling of the skin before and during treatment, can result in various levels of discomfort and pain to the patient being treated.
This has 30 resulted in a requirement that such procedures be performed by a dermatologist or other qualified physician, or at least under the supervision of such a physician.
The high power/energy devices used for performing such procedures are also relatively expensive.
The combination of relatively expensive equipment with the need for the procedures to be performed by high priced, highly trained personnel has resulted in such hair removal procedures being relatively expensive, significantly limiting the availability of such procedures to the public, and such availability has been further limited by difficulties in treating dark skinned individuals.
A need therefore exists for procedures to manage hair growth for a selected time periods, for example several days to a month for facial hair (men's beard), and several weeks or more (for example, months) for other body areas, which can safely be performed on individuals with all types of skin, and which is sufficiently low powered 1o and safe so that it can be performed by non-medical personnel, for example barbers, beauticians and spa operators, or even in the home by the person on whom the procedure is being performed. Such procedures should result in little or no pain or discomfort to the person on whom the treatment is being performed, should result in no visible alteration to such person's skin or other side effects, should be very low cost for a single 15 treatment and should be repeatable at selected intervals to achieve a desired level of hair growth management. A technique for achieving these objectives does not currently exist.
SUMMARY OF. THE INVENTION
2o In accordance with the above, this invention provides a method for hair growth management in a treatment area of a patient's skin which involves applying optical radiation to hair follicles in the treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufftcient to at least traumatize a matrix portion of at least selected follicles in the treatment area, but not sufftcient to cause either necrosis of some or most of each said 25 follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein. A
basement membrane of the matrix located between the matrix and papilla of the follicle may be also traumatized.
The matrix is preferably heated to a temperature in the range indicated in Fig. 2, but at least most of each treated follicle is at a temperature below this range. The ranges for wavelength, power density and duration are substantially within the ranges provided in 3o Table 1, depending on the color of the hair shafts in the treatment area.
The treatment method is preferably repeated at selected time intervals, which intervals may be from one day to eight weeks, but are preferably one week to six weeks. Loose hairs may be stripped from the treatment area at a time approximately one to two weeks after the method is performed, tape for example being used to remove the loose hairs.
For some embodiments, optical radiation is scanned over the treatment area at a speed generally within the ranges indicated in Table 3, the power densities of radiation from the source used depending on the wavelength of the source, the width of the scanning beam and the scanning speed, generally as indicated in Table 3. Where the radiation is scanned, the optical radiation source used may be a continuous wave (CW) source. At least a selected portion of the treatment area may also be irradiated a plurality of times during a treatment.
The method of hair growth management may also involve applying optical to radiation to hair follicles in a treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient to drive the follicles into a transitional growth arrested state, but not to cause either necrosis of most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein. The treatment of this method may also be repeated at selected time intervals.
15 The invention also involves apparatus for hair growth management in a treatment area of a patient's skin which includes a source of optical radiation; and a mechanism for applying the radiation to the treatment area; the source being of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient when applied to hair follicles in said treatment area to at least traumatize a matrix portion of at least selected follicles in the treatment area, but not 2o sufficient to cause either necrosis of most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein. Ranges for wavelengths, power density and duration of the source are substantially within the ranges provided in Table 1, depending on the color of hair shafts in the treatment area.
The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be 25 apparent from the following more particular description of preferred embodiments of the invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the same or related reference numerals being used for common elements in the various figures.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
30 Fig. 1 is an illustration of an anagen hair follicle.
Fig. 2 is a graph illustrating preferred temperature ranges for a treated follicle matrix as a function of pulse width.
Fig. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of the matrix and papilla of a hair follicle.
Fig. 4 is a graph of temperature as a function of time at the points in the hair follicle marked in Fig. 3.
Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of apparatus suitable for practicing the methods of this invention positioned on a skin portion.
DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
General Concepts As indicated above, hair removal using optical radiation as currently practiced has as its objective, the permanent removal of the hair shaft and associated hair follicle.
1o This procedure is similar in objective to the practice of electrolysis. In both cases, the hair shaft is removed and the follicle damaged. In particular, the requirement for permanency is satisfied in both electrolysis and optical hair removal by damaging the epithelium of the follicle, causing the formation of scar tissue, resulting in the permanent disablement of the hair follicle. Permanency may also be attempted by destruction of the 15 stem cells responsible for the perpetuation of the hair growth cycle, located in the bulge region of the folliculo-sebaceous unit.
Based on extensive clinical study of laser/light mediated hair growth management in humans, it has been clearly established as a power density, pulse width and energy density related process. Provided that the laser, light-emitting diode (LED), 20 lamp or other optical energy source radiates at a wavelength consistent with absorption by the hair follicle system, power densities above a certain level, which level is dependent on a number of factors to be discussed later, can result in permanent hair loss.
It has been observed that for lower power densities or fluences, it is possible to obtain changes in the nature of growing hair: hair may be lighter in color and thinner; hair 25 growth may be slower and ftnally, hair may eventually fall out, causing temporary hair loss. However, certain other combinations of treatment parameters may, in fact, result in the opposite effect, i.e. increase of the hair growth rate as well as hair shaft diameter and pigmentation.
While light treatment of hair at power density levels below that required for 3o permanent hair loss is not desirable as a dermatological tool in the rapid treatment of hirsuitism, it is acceptable and, as indicated above, in many cases desirable, in the cosmetic treatment of hair. It may also be usable for extended term treatment of hirsuitism.
The invention may generally be characterized as the discovery that an optical radiation treatment range, heretofore considered to be inadequate for the treatment of hirsuitism and the establishment of permanent hair loss, is available and is valuable as a mechanism for the cosmetic treatment of hair. The invention specifically defines new treatment parameter ranges optimized in terms of safety and efficacy, which can be used in a non-medical environment to perform hair growth management. Operation within the conditions specified will allow operation of treatment devices in a self treatment mode and/or by non-medical personnel. While some temporary benefits can be obtained from a single treatment employing the parameters of this invention, to achieve desired levels to of hair growth management, it is normally necessary to perform multiple treatments at selected time intervals, which intervals may vary from approximately one day to eight weeks, with intervals of one to six weeks generally being preferred. The preferred treatment interval may vary with the patient being treated, the part of the patient's body being treated and other factors, and may increase as the number of treatments performed 15 increases.
In considering possible mechanisms which may explain the performance of optical radiation devices in the cosmetic range, attention is drawn to the follicular matrix.
The matrix, which is only found in growing or anagen hair follicles, represents the "engine" of the factory responsible for hair formation, hair coloring and hair growth.
2o Matrix cells of a follicular bulb constitute a pool of undifferentiated cells whose metabolic activity is so intense that a complete cycle of those cells in follicles on a human scalp is only about 39 hours. The rapid rate of turnover of the matrix cells is greater than that of any normal tissue, with the possible exception of bone marrow.
Matrix cells contiguous with a papilla adjacent the matrix proliferate especially rapidly.
25 They power the movement of cells of a future hair toward the skin surface.
As the distance of matrix cells from the papilla increases, the mitotic activity of the cells decreases.
Clearly, what is described is a rapidly growing cellular system, requiring optimum conditions for continued high performance. In particular, it is necessary that 3o the entire matrix is available for the production of hair and access to the blood supply of the papilla so that the energy necessary for the metabolic process is not compromised.
Therefore, trauma to the matrix or papilla, or a portion thereof, or any condition which interrupts or reduces access of the matrix to blood supply from the papilla, can limit or control the rate at which the matrix drives the hair production process; this may therefore be a key to managing hair growth. This control depends on how completely or to what extent the functioning of the matrix cells and/or the blood supply in the papilla is limited.
In currently available light-based hair growth management systems, the objective is primarily permanent elimination of the hair, which in light of this discussion, means the complete destruction of the matrix and papilla. Fundamental to this invention is the limiting of destruction/perturbation of the follicle in general, and of the matrix, in particular, and to a lesser extent the papilla, to the extent needed to accomplish the objective of temporary hair growth management. This requirement of sufficient but 1o limited damage/periurbation places this process in the regime in which subtle processes known to control the formation and destruction of cells operate. For example, actual management of matrix cell death may be controlled by an apoptotic action, which in turn is mediated by molecular regulators produced as a result of the light energy perturbation .
The natural growth cycle of every hair follicle proceeds from an active growth state (anagen) in which the matrix and papilla are active, to an inactive state (telogen) in which the matrix is absent and the papilla is separated from the hair follicle. The transition between anagen and telogen states is called catagen, which is driven by apoptosis (programmed cell death) of the matrix and adj acent parts of the hair follicle epithelium. Because of this natural cycle, anagen hair follicles can be triggered into a 2o catagen-like state by subtle thermal injury of the matrix and/or adjacent parts of the hair follicle epithelium. In the case of optical radiation mediated hair growth which operates on the principal of, for example, thermal perturbation or traumatisation of matrix cells, papillary cells or the papillary blood supply, the characteristics of the perturbing optical source should have the correct wavelength content to be absorbed by chromophores in the matrix (melanocytes) and/or in the blood supply (hemoglobin). It is also necessary in some cases to optimize light pulse duration to ensure proper heat diffusion time between absorbing chromophores and targeted cells.
In the method of the present invention, the light treatment in people affects mostly anagen follicles. However, catagen and telogen follicles may also contribute to the resulting hair loss.
Regarding possible mechanisms for light treatment on an anagen follicle utilizing the method of the present invention, two hypotheses are consistent with the observed clinical pattern of hair growth reduction:
I. Light treatment induces premature or accelerated transition of the affected hair follicle from anagen into a dystrophic anagen or a telogen state through a transitional state similar to an altered or modified catagen state.
II. The affected follicle remains in an anagen or transitional growth arrested (TGA) state where the proliferation and melanogenesis rates are reduced, the hair growth may prematurely stop.
Regardless of the dominant mechanism, the hair in the follicle sheds after about a week to two weeks or may be easily removed by passing a tape over the hairs.
When the follicle is in the light-induced catagen/telogen or TGA state, the matrix and papilla also to gradually move upward in the skin from the subdermal or lower dermal region to the upper dermal region closer to the skin surface (see Fig. 5).
There are several possible pathways through which the absorbed optical energy triggers one or both above mechanisms. Of these possible pathways, the following pathways are deemed most probable:
15 1. Direct absorption of light in the hair matrix damages proliferating cells and causes a complete or partial block in the hair growth. This may also trigger the internal catagen-inducing mechanisms of the follicle. This pathway is compatible with both above hypotheses.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to hair growth management and more particularly to a method and apparatus for managing or controlling hair growth without causing immediate histological alterations of the hair follicle which are detectable by routine light microscopy or destruction of the hair shaft or at least a portion of the hair follicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1 o While there are some areas of a person's body where it is desired to permanently remove hair, for example facial or leg hair on a woman, frequently, for the hair indicated above as well as for undesired hair on other parts on both a man's and a woman's body, a lower level of hair growth management may be all that is desired. Hair growth management may involve temporary, for example for several weeks, or permanent 15 cessation of hair growth; temporarily or permanently changing, either increasing or decreasing, the hair growth rate; and/or temporarily or permanently changing selected characteristics of the hair shaft including, but not limited to, changing hair shaft diameter, shape, pigmentation, and mechanical properties such as elasticity and bend/curl. Hair growth management may involve removal of the hair shaft, destruction 20 of the hair shaft, and/or changes in the hair follicle structure. Most current techniques for hair management are techniques for hair removal by applying radiation to the patient's skin, generally optical radiation, in relatively high radiation doses sufficient to denature protein tissue of the hair follicle, and thus to generally cause necrosis of the follicle. The energy applied in such techniques also generally results in immediate destruction or 25 significant alterations of the hair shaft. However, the application of such high energy to a patient's skin can also cause damage to the patient's epidermis, particularly for darker skinned individuals, can in some instances cause dermal damage or scarring and, even with protective procedures such as cooling of the skin before and during treatment, can result in various levels of discomfort and pain to the patient being treated.
This has 30 resulted in a requirement that such procedures be performed by a dermatologist or other qualified physician, or at least under the supervision of such a physician.
The high power/energy devices used for performing such procedures are also relatively expensive.
The combination of relatively expensive equipment with the need for the procedures to be performed by high priced, highly trained personnel has resulted in such hair removal procedures being relatively expensive, significantly limiting the availability of such procedures to the public, and such availability has been further limited by difficulties in treating dark skinned individuals.
A need therefore exists for procedures to manage hair growth for a selected time periods, for example several days to a month for facial hair (men's beard), and several weeks or more (for example, months) for other body areas, which can safely be performed on individuals with all types of skin, and which is sufficiently low powered 1o and safe so that it can be performed by non-medical personnel, for example barbers, beauticians and spa operators, or even in the home by the person on whom the procedure is being performed. Such procedures should result in little or no pain or discomfort to the person on whom the treatment is being performed, should result in no visible alteration to such person's skin or other side effects, should be very low cost for a single 15 treatment and should be repeatable at selected intervals to achieve a desired level of hair growth management. A technique for achieving these objectives does not currently exist.
SUMMARY OF. THE INVENTION
2o In accordance with the above, this invention provides a method for hair growth management in a treatment area of a patient's skin which involves applying optical radiation to hair follicles in the treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufftcient to at least traumatize a matrix portion of at least selected follicles in the treatment area, but not sufftcient to cause either necrosis of some or most of each said 25 follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein. A
basement membrane of the matrix located between the matrix and papilla of the follicle may be also traumatized.
The matrix is preferably heated to a temperature in the range indicated in Fig. 2, but at least most of each treated follicle is at a temperature below this range. The ranges for wavelength, power density and duration are substantially within the ranges provided in 3o Table 1, depending on the color of the hair shafts in the treatment area.
The treatment method is preferably repeated at selected time intervals, which intervals may be from one day to eight weeks, but are preferably one week to six weeks. Loose hairs may be stripped from the treatment area at a time approximately one to two weeks after the method is performed, tape for example being used to remove the loose hairs.
For some embodiments, optical radiation is scanned over the treatment area at a speed generally within the ranges indicated in Table 3, the power densities of radiation from the source used depending on the wavelength of the source, the width of the scanning beam and the scanning speed, generally as indicated in Table 3. Where the radiation is scanned, the optical radiation source used may be a continuous wave (CW) source. At least a selected portion of the treatment area may also be irradiated a plurality of times during a treatment.
The method of hair growth management may also involve applying optical to radiation to hair follicles in a treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient to drive the follicles into a transitional growth arrested state, but not to cause either necrosis of most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein. The treatment of this method may also be repeated at selected time intervals.
15 The invention also involves apparatus for hair growth management in a treatment area of a patient's skin which includes a source of optical radiation; and a mechanism for applying the radiation to the treatment area; the source being of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient when applied to hair follicles in said treatment area to at least traumatize a matrix portion of at least selected follicles in the treatment area, but not 2o sufficient to cause either necrosis of most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein. Ranges for wavelengths, power density and duration of the source are substantially within the ranges provided in Table 1, depending on the color of hair shafts in the treatment area.
The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be 25 apparent from the following more particular description of preferred embodiments of the invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the same or related reference numerals being used for common elements in the various figures.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
30 Fig. 1 is an illustration of an anagen hair follicle.
Fig. 2 is a graph illustrating preferred temperature ranges for a treated follicle matrix as a function of pulse width.
Fig. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of the matrix and papilla of a hair follicle.
Fig. 4 is a graph of temperature as a function of time at the points in the hair follicle marked in Fig. 3.
Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of apparatus suitable for practicing the methods of this invention positioned on a skin portion.
DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
General Concepts As indicated above, hair removal using optical radiation as currently practiced has as its objective, the permanent removal of the hair shaft and associated hair follicle.
1o This procedure is similar in objective to the practice of electrolysis. In both cases, the hair shaft is removed and the follicle damaged. In particular, the requirement for permanency is satisfied in both electrolysis and optical hair removal by damaging the epithelium of the follicle, causing the formation of scar tissue, resulting in the permanent disablement of the hair follicle. Permanency may also be attempted by destruction of the 15 stem cells responsible for the perpetuation of the hair growth cycle, located in the bulge region of the folliculo-sebaceous unit.
Based on extensive clinical study of laser/light mediated hair growth management in humans, it has been clearly established as a power density, pulse width and energy density related process. Provided that the laser, light-emitting diode (LED), 20 lamp or other optical energy source radiates at a wavelength consistent with absorption by the hair follicle system, power densities above a certain level, which level is dependent on a number of factors to be discussed later, can result in permanent hair loss.
It has been observed that for lower power densities or fluences, it is possible to obtain changes in the nature of growing hair: hair may be lighter in color and thinner; hair 25 growth may be slower and ftnally, hair may eventually fall out, causing temporary hair loss. However, certain other combinations of treatment parameters may, in fact, result in the opposite effect, i.e. increase of the hair growth rate as well as hair shaft diameter and pigmentation.
While light treatment of hair at power density levels below that required for 3o permanent hair loss is not desirable as a dermatological tool in the rapid treatment of hirsuitism, it is acceptable and, as indicated above, in many cases desirable, in the cosmetic treatment of hair. It may also be usable for extended term treatment of hirsuitism.
The invention may generally be characterized as the discovery that an optical radiation treatment range, heretofore considered to be inadequate for the treatment of hirsuitism and the establishment of permanent hair loss, is available and is valuable as a mechanism for the cosmetic treatment of hair. The invention specifically defines new treatment parameter ranges optimized in terms of safety and efficacy, which can be used in a non-medical environment to perform hair growth management. Operation within the conditions specified will allow operation of treatment devices in a self treatment mode and/or by non-medical personnel. While some temporary benefits can be obtained from a single treatment employing the parameters of this invention, to achieve desired levels to of hair growth management, it is normally necessary to perform multiple treatments at selected time intervals, which intervals may vary from approximately one day to eight weeks, with intervals of one to six weeks generally being preferred. The preferred treatment interval may vary with the patient being treated, the part of the patient's body being treated and other factors, and may increase as the number of treatments performed 15 increases.
In considering possible mechanisms which may explain the performance of optical radiation devices in the cosmetic range, attention is drawn to the follicular matrix.
The matrix, which is only found in growing or anagen hair follicles, represents the "engine" of the factory responsible for hair formation, hair coloring and hair growth.
2o Matrix cells of a follicular bulb constitute a pool of undifferentiated cells whose metabolic activity is so intense that a complete cycle of those cells in follicles on a human scalp is only about 39 hours. The rapid rate of turnover of the matrix cells is greater than that of any normal tissue, with the possible exception of bone marrow.
Matrix cells contiguous with a papilla adjacent the matrix proliferate especially rapidly.
25 They power the movement of cells of a future hair toward the skin surface.
As the distance of matrix cells from the papilla increases, the mitotic activity of the cells decreases.
Clearly, what is described is a rapidly growing cellular system, requiring optimum conditions for continued high performance. In particular, it is necessary that 3o the entire matrix is available for the production of hair and access to the blood supply of the papilla so that the energy necessary for the metabolic process is not compromised.
Therefore, trauma to the matrix or papilla, or a portion thereof, or any condition which interrupts or reduces access of the matrix to blood supply from the papilla, can limit or control the rate at which the matrix drives the hair production process; this may therefore be a key to managing hair growth. This control depends on how completely or to what extent the functioning of the matrix cells and/or the blood supply in the papilla is limited.
In currently available light-based hair growth management systems, the objective is primarily permanent elimination of the hair, which in light of this discussion, means the complete destruction of the matrix and papilla. Fundamental to this invention is the limiting of destruction/perturbation of the follicle in general, and of the matrix, in particular, and to a lesser extent the papilla, to the extent needed to accomplish the objective of temporary hair growth management. This requirement of sufficient but 1o limited damage/periurbation places this process in the regime in which subtle processes known to control the formation and destruction of cells operate. For example, actual management of matrix cell death may be controlled by an apoptotic action, which in turn is mediated by molecular regulators produced as a result of the light energy perturbation .
The natural growth cycle of every hair follicle proceeds from an active growth state (anagen) in which the matrix and papilla are active, to an inactive state (telogen) in which the matrix is absent and the papilla is separated from the hair follicle. The transition between anagen and telogen states is called catagen, which is driven by apoptosis (programmed cell death) of the matrix and adj acent parts of the hair follicle epithelium. Because of this natural cycle, anagen hair follicles can be triggered into a 2o catagen-like state by subtle thermal injury of the matrix and/or adjacent parts of the hair follicle epithelium. In the case of optical radiation mediated hair growth which operates on the principal of, for example, thermal perturbation or traumatisation of matrix cells, papillary cells or the papillary blood supply, the characteristics of the perturbing optical source should have the correct wavelength content to be absorbed by chromophores in the matrix (melanocytes) and/or in the blood supply (hemoglobin). It is also necessary in some cases to optimize light pulse duration to ensure proper heat diffusion time between absorbing chromophores and targeted cells.
In the method of the present invention, the light treatment in people affects mostly anagen follicles. However, catagen and telogen follicles may also contribute to the resulting hair loss.
Regarding possible mechanisms for light treatment on an anagen follicle utilizing the method of the present invention, two hypotheses are consistent with the observed clinical pattern of hair growth reduction:
I. Light treatment induces premature or accelerated transition of the affected hair follicle from anagen into a dystrophic anagen or a telogen state through a transitional state similar to an altered or modified catagen state.
II. The affected follicle remains in an anagen or transitional growth arrested (TGA) state where the proliferation and melanogenesis rates are reduced, the hair growth may prematurely stop.
Regardless of the dominant mechanism, the hair in the follicle sheds after about a week to two weeks or may be easily removed by passing a tape over the hairs.
When the follicle is in the light-induced catagen/telogen or TGA state, the matrix and papilla also to gradually move upward in the skin from the subdermal or lower dermal region to the upper dermal region closer to the skin surface (see Fig. 5).
There are several possible pathways through which the absorbed optical energy triggers one or both above mechanisms. Of these possible pathways, the following pathways are deemed most probable:
15 1. Direct absorption of light in the hair matrix damages proliferating cells and causes a complete or partial block in the hair growth. This may also trigger the internal catagen-inducing mechanisms of the follicle. This pathway is compatible with both above hypotheses.
2. Sufficient trauma is induced to blood capillaries of the dermal papilla 20 either by direct absorption of light by the blood in these capillaries or by heat emanating from light absorbing melanocytes and other pigmented cells in the matrix. This leads to a decrease in the blood flow to the matrix and/or obstructs release of necessary substances into the matrix cells. Thus, the flow of nutrients to the proliferating hair matrix is decreased significantly, which results in deceleration of the hair growth. This 25 pathway can involve photothermal action of light absorbed by blood in the dermal papilla and is compatible with hypothesis II.
Damage is caused to the companion layer of cells that move outward together with the differentiated cells of the inner root sheath (IRS). As a result, traction between the companion layer and the outer root sheath (ORS) increases and normal 30 outward movement of the hair shaft becomes obstructed. This triggers response mechanisms in the ORS. In particular, this may influence expression of interior regulators in the ORS (e.g., inhibition of expression of the fibroblast growth factor FGFSS , which normally blocks the anagen-inhibiting activity of other regulators). As a _g_ result, transition to catagen is induced (hypothesis I above). This mechanism implies sufficient absorption of light into the hair shaft and subsequent heat transfer to the IRS, the companion layer, and (possibly) the ORS.
Damage is caused to the companion layer of cells that move outward together with the differentiated cells of the inner root sheath (IRS). As a result, traction between the companion layer and the outer root sheath (ORS) increases and normal 30 outward movement of the hair shaft becomes obstructed. This triggers response mechanisms in the ORS. In particular, this may influence expression of interior regulators in the ORS (e.g., inhibition of expression of the fibroblast growth factor FGFSS , which normally blocks the anagen-inhibiting activity of other regulators). As a _g_ result, transition to catagen is induced (hypothesis I above). This mechanism implies sufficient absorption of light into the hair shaft and subsequent heat transfer to the IRS, the companion layer, and (possibly) the ORS.
4. Transition of the follicle to catagen is initiated by stimulating mitotic activity of fibroblasts in the dermal papilla. The cell cycle of fibroblasts in the dernial papilla has been proposed as the principal oscillator of the hair cycle clock.
Specifically, it has been postulated that the fibroblasts secrete a cocktail of "papilla morphogenes"
(PM), which induce and maintain anagen only as long as these fibroblasts remain in the GO/G1 phase of the cell cycle. Once the fibroblasts enter the phase of proliferative to activity, the flow of PM stops, that leading to termination of anagen. On the other hand, light has been demonstrated to stimulate proliferation of fibroblasts . This pathway suggests photochemical (with possible contribution of photothermal) action of light and supports hypothesis I.
As will be discussed in greater detail later, there is a very thin (less the 1 micrometer thick) basement membrane which may be considered to be part of the matrix on the side thereof adjacent the papilla. The matrix has a high concentration of melanin, generally three to ten times the concentration of melanin in the corresponding hair shaft.
Damage or trauma to this basement membrane can both directly reduce proliferation activity of the matrix and indirectly interfere with this proliferation by blocking blood flow from the papilla to the matrix.
Trauma to the papilla can result in a reduction in the diameter and/or pigmentation of a hair shaft growing from the corresponding follicle and can also result in the follicle matrix and papilla moving upward in the skin. These changes can affect light mediated hair growth management.
Other pathways of light-induced hair growth management/temporary hair loss are also possible.
Implementation The invention provides a new way to manage (decrease or suppress) unwanted 3o hair growth. Light assisted hair removal is already described in the prior art. However all the devices and techniques described are designed to significantly damage or destroy the hair follicle with subsequent immediate arrest of hair growth. This kind of treatment is generally considered to be equivalent to surgical hair removal, and therefore is required to be regulated by the FDA as a medical procedure. This invention, however, provides a new treatment protocol designed not to destroy or significantly damage the hair follicle;
however minor alterations are induced at the hair follicle that typically generate the specific effects on the clinical behavior of hair growth and hair attachment detailed below. These typically described effects require a specific treatment regime and/or combination with specific other methods in order to obtain the intended reduction of hair growth at a level desired by the user. These effects can be recognized by specific behavior patterns after either a single or multiple treatments with this inventive technique and are fundamentally different from the prior art for hair removal. Good cosmetic to results generally do not occur immediately, but instead occur either with some delay and/or as a result of multiple treatments with short intervals, generally approximately one day to eight weeks.
Features of the invention include:
1) During the treatment, neither the hair follicle nor the hair shaft therein is 15 destroyed.
2) The differences in clinical behavior of a typical hair follicle treated by this new method.
3) The use of multiple treatments and/or the combination of the treatments) with other specific methods to obtain a desired hair growth management/reduction.
20 4) The combination/range of parameters used.
Considering each of these features individually:
1) Usually, devices are designed to significantly damage the hair follicle, including the hair shaft itself, such prior art methods and devices generally ablating or melting the hair shaft. The fluence of many such devices is thus set to obtain ablation, or 25 at least color change (browning), of most of the hair shafts of the hair follicles being treated. Hair shafts and hair follicles treated by the new treatment method do not typically exhibit major changes. Occasionally, some hair bending could occur.
Signiftcant browning, immediate hair shaft rupture or hair cutting, or rupture of the hair follicle itself are in general not observed with the new treatment regime.
Thus, the hair 3o shaft remains in the follicle after treatment. There is also no current intent to thermally destroy the stem cells of the hair follicle which are located at the bulge area. Structures of the hair follicle which are intended to sustain various amount of damage or trauma include the hair matrix cells, the melanocytes co-located with the hair matrix cells, the basement membrane portion of the matrix between the matrix and the papilla, the papilla cells, or other cells located close to the hair bulb including cells in the keratinozeid zone.
Because the parameters used are in general less aggressive, it is possible to apply this method of treatment without prior shaving or clipping of the hairs.
2) The clinical behavior of a typical hair follicle after application of this method is generally as follows. Typically there is no immediate noticeable color change of the hair shaft or smell of burned hairs after treatment. Also, there is typically no, or at most very limited, perifollicular edema (swelling) and erythema (redness) around the treated hair follicles (this is currently a clinical endpoint of most, if not all, techniques described to in the prior art). The treatment should be painless. The attachment of the hair shaft immediately after treatment is usually not significantly altered. The treated hair follicle appears to be growing normally for a period from 1 day to 6 weeks, and on average about 2 weeks, after treatment, at which time there is a significant reduction in the hair shaft's attachment to the hair follicle, permitting the hair shaft to be shed or easily removed mechanically, for example with adhesive tape. However, during the period of growth, the growth rate can be different from, normally less than, that of an untreated hair follicle, at least for most of this period, and the growth rate can also change during this period. A relatively sudden onset of hair shedding after about two weeks can be observed. Eventually the hair follicle can continue to produce a hair shaft.
However this 2o hair shaft might be less pigmented or have smaller diameter or a lower growth rate after treatment, and especially after multiple regular treatments. It can take several treatments until a change in the growth rate, diameter or pigmentation become evident.
3) Because of its clinical behavior, this method can be combined with other specific treatments; for example:
1. Painless tape stripping of loosely attached hair shafts about 1-3 weeks after treatment.
2. Multiple treatments with the intervals between treatment being scheduled or on demand, and either fixed or variable, typical intervals being from approximately one day to eight weeks/two months with treatments weekly to every three to six weeks being 3o preferred. Other treatment intervals are also within the contemplation of the invention, the required treatment interval varying based on a number of factors including the individual being treated, the number of prior treatments, the prior treatment intervals, the treatment parameters for prior treatments, etc. For example, the treatment interval may increase as the number of treatments performed on a patient increases. One reason for this is that the follicles in anagen state have a significant matrix, and therefore, are more susceptible to the treatment. Therefore, another treatment in a week or later may be required to treat follicles which were in catagen or telogen state during the initial treatment and are now in anagen state, producing hair shafts. However, as treatments proceed, the follicles normally tend toward syncronicity, increasing the number of follicles treated during each treatment; however, the number of hair shafts may decrease as the number of treatments increases. This is one factor which can dictate the proper interval between treatments. Other parameters may also vary as the number of to treatments increases. For example, because the matrix and papilla of the follicle move closer to the surface as treatments proceed, the light photons do not need to reach as deeply into the skin, permitting shorter wavelength radiation to be used, which may be more strongly absorbed by melanocytes of the matrix. The matrix being closer to the surface may also permit lower power densities to be employed for later treatments.
Finally, the matrix in the foreshortened follicle is closer to other portions of the follicle, meaning that heat radiating from the matrix may also thermally traumatize additional portions of the follicle which control hair growth, for example follicular stem cells. The differences in matrix location, hair shaft diameter, pigmentation, etc. and other changes in the follicle after some number of treatments, may dictate changes in the treatment 2o parameters for subsequent treatments which will be discussed later.
Further, during a single treatment session, the radiation-applying head/device may be applied to or may pass over a given treatment area multiple times, the lack of immediate alteration or damage to the hair shaft or follicle making such multiple passes particularly feasible.
3. The new treatment method could be the only method for management of unwanted hair growth if applied sufftciently frequently (1/ week up to 1/
2month depending on body area and patient) or this method could be used in combination with shaving, even if the rate of shaving can be reduced because of the decreased hair growth based on average hair growth rate or temporary reduction in hair density. The treatment of this invention may also result in less pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) after shaving if 3o the treatment is performed immediately before, or preferably days before shaving. The primary reason for this effect is the reduction in the growth rate that in turn reduces the probability of the hair re-entry into the skin. Other contributing factors are hair miniaturization and changes in the physical/chemical structure of the hair shaft. The teachings of this invention may also be used:
a) for treatment of keratosis pilaris, this being an obstruction of the hair infundibulum by increased keratinisation.
b) treatment to intentionally induce a change in hair growth stage, this being useful in clinical situations such as in cancer related chemotherapy to prevent drug related effluvium. This is because the anagen stage is the most susceptible and a shift before treatment to a different state may help decrease or prevent drug related effluvium.
c) induced hair growth synchronization may be used to condition and optimize to various light assisted hair management treatments which are hair growth stage susceptible.
d) modify male beard growth to reduce frequency of required shaving.
4. The new treatment method can be combined with other hair management techniques for synergy and better cosmetic results, for example, with chemical epilation 15 or with other lotions applied for enhanced hair growth reduction/stoppage.
Such additional treatments are particularly effective after the hair shafts shed or are removed since, unlike when hair shafts are removed by plucking, waxing or similar techniques, which techniques result in edema which obstructs the infundibulum of the follicle, there is no such edema with the practice of this invention. Thus, these topical compounds 2o more easily enter the follicle and can therefore be more effective.
Therefore, the time after hair shedding may be an ideal time to apply such compounds. Soft waxing can also be used between light treatments. Internal, herbal or other natural medicines which effect hair growth management can also be used in combination with the treatments of this invention.
25 5. T'he new treatment method can be combined with additional skin treatments to enhance treatment results. For example, deep (up to the depth of the hair matrix) preheating of skin can increase the effect of the treatment. This preheating can be realized using an additional deep heating electromagnetic or acoustic device.
The time of preheating can be 1-10000 seconds. A hot bath and/or hot wax can be used for the same 30 propose. The same device as is used for treatment can also be used for preheating, but with a lower power setting. Another possible additional treatment can be massage for blood supply activation.
Treatment Parameters The concentration of melanin and the absorption of light in the hair matrix of anagen hair next to the hair papilla, and in particular in the matrix, is 3-10 times stronger than in the hair shaft. So the temperature rise of the matrix and of this area 1 is higher than in any other portion in the hair follicle, including the hair shaft. It is therefore possible to selectively treat the hair matrix, including the basement membrane portion thereof, and the adjacent hair papilla P (see Fig 1) without any damage to other parts of the follicle. The effect of this treatment can be a slow transition of an anagen hair follicle into the TGA or a modified phase.
l0 Parameters The range of parameter for the treatments of this invention has been determined for the following Tables and Figures from calculations of the Arrhenius integral A for this hottest area 1(Fig. 1) of the hair follicle. Minimal thermal injury is defined as A=0.1 15 and maximal injury is A=1 (or greater); however, since the area 1 heats significantly more strongly then other areas of the follicle/hair shaft when the follicle is irradiated, even for A=1 for area 1, there is little or no damage/trauma to the remainder of the follicle/hair shaft. For a low value of A, time required to arrest hair growth should be longer.
2o It should be understood that the following Tables and Figures have been derived from Arrhenius computations using known process parameters (activation energy and frequency factor) for the denaturation of structural cell proteins. The mechanisms 1 through 5 involve enzyme deactivation rather than protein denaturation. The former process typically requires less energy and is initiated at lower temperatures than the 25 latter. Therefore, the parameters below represent upper boundary estimates for power density and fluence that should be used in the practice of the present invention. It should be noted that the quantitative values of the Arrhenius parameters for the relevant processes are only known at present time with a limited accuracy. In addition, important contributions to the overall effect may be caused by non-Arrhenius-type processes (e.g., 30 deactivation of enzymes). Therefore, the range of parameters presented here should be considered exemplary and not limiting the scope of the present invention.
Fig. 2 shows the temperature given by the Arrhenius integral for A=0.1 (lower curve) and A=1 (upper curve). Using standard parameters of skin diffusion and thermal equations, power density and fluence needed for selective thermal injury of area 1, the hair matrix of dark/dirty blond or blonde hair, were calculated. Minimum fluence and power density were determined for dark hair and A=0.1. The light pulse used is assumed to be rectangular. Depending on the patient's hair and other factors, the temperature for a given treatment should fall between the two curves shown in Fig. 2.
Another variable factor for treatment is the sub-phase of the anagen phase. In early . anagen phase, the hair matrix can be close to the skin surface and more sensitive to shorter wavelengths.
l0 Table 1. Range of power density W/cm2 for low power photoepilation, minimum for dark hair and maximum for dark/dirty blond hair or blonde hair. The power density integrates for hair colors between those specified, and also integrates for wavelengths between those specified.
Wavelength,Pulsewidth, ms nm 0.1 1 10 100 1,000 10,000 100,000 600 2000- 210- 21- 4.0- 1.8- 1.3- 1.0-700 1500- 160- 16- 3.0- 1.4- 1.0- 0.75-800 2400- 260- 26- 4.8- 2.2- 1.6- 1.2-900 4300- 450- 45- 8.5- 4.0- 2.8- 2.1-86 1000 11000-1100- 110-420022-81010-3907.1-2705.4-220 1100 10000-1400- 140-520027-99012-4708.7-3406.6-270 600-12002500- 260- 27-990 5.0-1802.4-901.6-65 1.2-51 lamp 91000 9600 700-12003400- 360- 36-1300 6.8-2603.2-1202.2-87 1.7-69 lamp 13000013000 800-12005300- 550- 56-2100 10-3904.9-1803.4-1302.6-110 lamp 20000021000 Table 2. Range of fluence J/cm2 for low power photoepilation, minimum for dark hair and maximum for dark/dirty blonde hair or blonde hair. The fluence integrates for hair colors between those specified, and also integrates for wavelengths between those specified. Where the treatment involves multiple passes, the fluence given is generally per pass, and cumulative fluence may therefore be higher for the multiple passes.
Wavelength,Pulsewidth, ms ~
ntn 0.1 1 10 100 1,000 10,000 100,000 600 0.2-7.20.21-7.70.21-7.80.40-14 1.8-70 130- 100-700 0.15-5.20.16-5.90.16-6.00.30-11 1.4-53 10- 75-800 0.24-8.80.26-9.40.26-9.50.48-18 2.2-86 16 120-900 0.43-160.45-160.45-170.85-33 4 - 28- 210-1000 1.1-391.10-421.2-42 2.2-81 10-390 71-2700540-1100 1.0-491.40-521.4-52 2.7-99 12-470 87-3400660-1200 S.6-2106.0-2206-220 11-420 52-2000360-140002800-600-1200 0.25-9.10.26-9.60.27-9.90.50-18 2.4-90 16-650 120-lamp 5100 700-1200 0.34-130.36-130.36-130.68-26 3.2-12022-870 170-lamp 6900 800-1200 0.53-200.55-210.56-211-39 4.9-18034-1300260-lamp 11000 Table 3. Range of linear power densities (W/cm) for low power epilation by continuous wave (CW)lcontinuous contact scanning (CCS) method (US patent 6,273,884) as a function of scanning speed, minimum for dark hair and maximum for dark/diriy blond or blonde hair.
Wavelength,Speed of scanning, cm/sec nm 1 2 5 7.5 10 15 20 600 1.8-65 2.2-78 3.2-1153.8-1304.2-156 5.4-1956.4-700 1.4 - 1.7-60 2.4 2.8 3.2 - 4 - 4.8 800 1.6-60 2-70 2.8-1003.4-1203.8-140 4.8-1705.6-900 2.2 - 2.6 3.8 4.6 5.2 - 6.6 7.6 1000 5.4 - 6.4 9.4 11 - 13 -470 16-600 19 1100 8.6 -31011 - 15 - 18 - 20 - 26 -93530 600-12001.7 - 2.2 3 - 3.6 4 - 155 5.2 6 -lamp 700-12002.2 - 2.6 3.8 4.6 5.2 - 6.6 7.6 lamp 285 800-12003.4 - 4.2 6 - 7.2 8 - 340 10 - 12 lamp 440 For contact scanning with a continuous wave (CW) source (for example as described in US patent 6,273,884), typical temperatures and damage dynamics in the hair matrix are shown for the model of a hair bulb in Fig. 3.
In Fig. 3, the numbers have the following significance:
Matrix (including the basement membrane) 2. Papilla (center) 3. Papilla (right) 4. Papilla (bottom) Fig. 4 shows the temperature pulses for movement of a CW head at 30 mm/s skin type II on 1-matrix/basement membrane, 2-papilla center, 3-papilla edge, 4-papilla bottom. For CW treatment, effective temperature and pulsewidth depend on speed of movement of the head. For example, for movement of the CW head at 30 mm/s, a full width half maximum (FWHM) temperature pulse is 220 ms.
After several treatments, parameters lower than those specified in Tables l, 2, 3 can be used to maintain good cosmetic results.
Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary section 10 of a patient's skin with an apparatus 11 suitable for practicing the teachings of this invention positioned thereon.
Skin 10 has an epidermal layer 12 separated from an underlying dermal layer 14 by a basal layer 15, there being a subdermal layer 16 under the dermal layer. A normal hair follicle 18 in anagen state is shown with its matrix and papilla extending into subdermal layer 16, and to a follicle 20 in the transitional growth arrested state is also shown, the matrix for this follicle being much higher in the dermal layer of the skin. Apparatus 11 includes a head 22 in contact with the patient's skin connected to a control box 24 by an umbilical 26.
Head 22 preferably contains the radiation source, for example one or more laser diodes, LEDs, lamps or other suitable optical radiation source. Power may be provided to the sources) from a power supply in control 24 through umbilical 26 or head 22 may contain a battery or other suitable power supply. Control electronics may also be in box 24. It is also possible for the radiation source to be in box 24, radiation from this source being applied to head 22 through the umbilical. Where the radiation source, power supply and controls can be fitted in head 22, control box 24 and umbilical 26 may be 2o eliminated. Head 22 may move or scan over the surface of skin 10 at a selected rate, with the radiation source being a CW source or suitable pulsed source, or the source may be a pulsed source with head 22 being sequentially moved to selected treatment areas on the skin.
Where the invention is being used in a CW/CCS mode, apparatus such as that taught in US patent 6,273,884 may be utilized in practicing the teachings of the invention, the apparatus being operated with the power densities and other parameters specified herein. GaAs or other diode lasers, laser bars, LEDs, fiber lasers, gas discharged Xe or Kr lamps, halogen and tungsten lamps with proper color temperature and filtering, other lamps or other suitable light sources can be used as light sources.
3o Where the invention is being operated in pulse mode, a variety of optical dermatology apparatus, either utilizing a coherenblaser source, LED, incoherent/lamp or other suitable optical radiation source, may be utilized. Since for this method of treatment, both low cost and efficacy of the source used are very important, preferable light sources are diode lasers or laser bars, LEDs, fiber lasers, gas discharge lamps, and halogen or tungsten lamps with proper color temperature and filtering. Gas discharge and tungsten lamps can be linear, circular, U-shaped, etc. The color temperature of a lamp can in the range 2500-6000° I~ and can be increased by the use of short arc lamps. For example, a short arc xenon lamp can be packaged in ceramic-to-metal construction integrated with a reflector.
Regardless of the apparatus utilized, it needs to be operated in the power density and other parameter ranges taught above. Because of the relatively low power densities required by this invention, a relatively small, light, inexpensive and safe radiation source can generally be employed.
l0 While the invention has been described above with respect to preferred embodiments, these are being provided by way of illustration only, and the methods described, the apparatus and the treatment parameters may vary depending on patient, the treatment being performed and other factors. Such variations, as well as other variations in forni and detail, would be apparent to one ordinarily skilled in the art.
Thus, the 15 invention is to be limited only by the appended claims.
Specifically, it has been postulated that the fibroblasts secrete a cocktail of "papilla morphogenes"
(PM), which induce and maintain anagen only as long as these fibroblasts remain in the GO/G1 phase of the cell cycle. Once the fibroblasts enter the phase of proliferative to activity, the flow of PM stops, that leading to termination of anagen. On the other hand, light has been demonstrated to stimulate proliferation of fibroblasts . This pathway suggests photochemical (with possible contribution of photothermal) action of light and supports hypothesis I.
As will be discussed in greater detail later, there is a very thin (less the 1 micrometer thick) basement membrane which may be considered to be part of the matrix on the side thereof adjacent the papilla. The matrix has a high concentration of melanin, generally three to ten times the concentration of melanin in the corresponding hair shaft.
Damage or trauma to this basement membrane can both directly reduce proliferation activity of the matrix and indirectly interfere with this proliferation by blocking blood flow from the papilla to the matrix.
Trauma to the papilla can result in a reduction in the diameter and/or pigmentation of a hair shaft growing from the corresponding follicle and can also result in the follicle matrix and papilla moving upward in the skin. These changes can affect light mediated hair growth management.
Other pathways of light-induced hair growth management/temporary hair loss are also possible.
Implementation The invention provides a new way to manage (decrease or suppress) unwanted 3o hair growth. Light assisted hair removal is already described in the prior art. However all the devices and techniques described are designed to significantly damage or destroy the hair follicle with subsequent immediate arrest of hair growth. This kind of treatment is generally considered to be equivalent to surgical hair removal, and therefore is required to be regulated by the FDA as a medical procedure. This invention, however, provides a new treatment protocol designed not to destroy or significantly damage the hair follicle;
however minor alterations are induced at the hair follicle that typically generate the specific effects on the clinical behavior of hair growth and hair attachment detailed below. These typically described effects require a specific treatment regime and/or combination with specific other methods in order to obtain the intended reduction of hair growth at a level desired by the user. These effects can be recognized by specific behavior patterns after either a single or multiple treatments with this inventive technique and are fundamentally different from the prior art for hair removal. Good cosmetic to results generally do not occur immediately, but instead occur either with some delay and/or as a result of multiple treatments with short intervals, generally approximately one day to eight weeks.
Features of the invention include:
1) During the treatment, neither the hair follicle nor the hair shaft therein is 15 destroyed.
2) The differences in clinical behavior of a typical hair follicle treated by this new method.
3) The use of multiple treatments and/or the combination of the treatments) with other specific methods to obtain a desired hair growth management/reduction.
20 4) The combination/range of parameters used.
Considering each of these features individually:
1) Usually, devices are designed to significantly damage the hair follicle, including the hair shaft itself, such prior art methods and devices generally ablating or melting the hair shaft. The fluence of many such devices is thus set to obtain ablation, or 25 at least color change (browning), of most of the hair shafts of the hair follicles being treated. Hair shafts and hair follicles treated by the new treatment method do not typically exhibit major changes. Occasionally, some hair bending could occur.
Signiftcant browning, immediate hair shaft rupture or hair cutting, or rupture of the hair follicle itself are in general not observed with the new treatment regime.
Thus, the hair 3o shaft remains in the follicle after treatment. There is also no current intent to thermally destroy the stem cells of the hair follicle which are located at the bulge area. Structures of the hair follicle which are intended to sustain various amount of damage or trauma include the hair matrix cells, the melanocytes co-located with the hair matrix cells, the basement membrane portion of the matrix between the matrix and the papilla, the papilla cells, or other cells located close to the hair bulb including cells in the keratinozeid zone.
Because the parameters used are in general less aggressive, it is possible to apply this method of treatment without prior shaving or clipping of the hairs.
2) The clinical behavior of a typical hair follicle after application of this method is generally as follows. Typically there is no immediate noticeable color change of the hair shaft or smell of burned hairs after treatment. Also, there is typically no, or at most very limited, perifollicular edema (swelling) and erythema (redness) around the treated hair follicles (this is currently a clinical endpoint of most, if not all, techniques described to in the prior art). The treatment should be painless. The attachment of the hair shaft immediately after treatment is usually not significantly altered. The treated hair follicle appears to be growing normally for a period from 1 day to 6 weeks, and on average about 2 weeks, after treatment, at which time there is a significant reduction in the hair shaft's attachment to the hair follicle, permitting the hair shaft to be shed or easily removed mechanically, for example with adhesive tape. However, during the period of growth, the growth rate can be different from, normally less than, that of an untreated hair follicle, at least for most of this period, and the growth rate can also change during this period. A relatively sudden onset of hair shedding after about two weeks can be observed. Eventually the hair follicle can continue to produce a hair shaft.
However this 2o hair shaft might be less pigmented or have smaller diameter or a lower growth rate after treatment, and especially after multiple regular treatments. It can take several treatments until a change in the growth rate, diameter or pigmentation become evident.
3) Because of its clinical behavior, this method can be combined with other specific treatments; for example:
1. Painless tape stripping of loosely attached hair shafts about 1-3 weeks after treatment.
2. Multiple treatments with the intervals between treatment being scheduled or on demand, and either fixed or variable, typical intervals being from approximately one day to eight weeks/two months with treatments weekly to every three to six weeks being 3o preferred. Other treatment intervals are also within the contemplation of the invention, the required treatment interval varying based on a number of factors including the individual being treated, the number of prior treatments, the prior treatment intervals, the treatment parameters for prior treatments, etc. For example, the treatment interval may increase as the number of treatments performed on a patient increases. One reason for this is that the follicles in anagen state have a significant matrix, and therefore, are more susceptible to the treatment. Therefore, another treatment in a week or later may be required to treat follicles which were in catagen or telogen state during the initial treatment and are now in anagen state, producing hair shafts. However, as treatments proceed, the follicles normally tend toward syncronicity, increasing the number of follicles treated during each treatment; however, the number of hair shafts may decrease as the number of treatments increases. This is one factor which can dictate the proper interval between treatments. Other parameters may also vary as the number of to treatments increases. For example, because the matrix and papilla of the follicle move closer to the surface as treatments proceed, the light photons do not need to reach as deeply into the skin, permitting shorter wavelength radiation to be used, which may be more strongly absorbed by melanocytes of the matrix. The matrix being closer to the surface may also permit lower power densities to be employed for later treatments.
Finally, the matrix in the foreshortened follicle is closer to other portions of the follicle, meaning that heat radiating from the matrix may also thermally traumatize additional portions of the follicle which control hair growth, for example follicular stem cells. The differences in matrix location, hair shaft diameter, pigmentation, etc. and other changes in the follicle after some number of treatments, may dictate changes in the treatment 2o parameters for subsequent treatments which will be discussed later.
Further, during a single treatment session, the radiation-applying head/device may be applied to or may pass over a given treatment area multiple times, the lack of immediate alteration or damage to the hair shaft or follicle making such multiple passes particularly feasible.
3. The new treatment method could be the only method for management of unwanted hair growth if applied sufftciently frequently (1/ week up to 1/
2month depending on body area and patient) or this method could be used in combination with shaving, even if the rate of shaving can be reduced because of the decreased hair growth based on average hair growth rate or temporary reduction in hair density. The treatment of this invention may also result in less pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) after shaving if 3o the treatment is performed immediately before, or preferably days before shaving. The primary reason for this effect is the reduction in the growth rate that in turn reduces the probability of the hair re-entry into the skin. Other contributing factors are hair miniaturization and changes in the physical/chemical structure of the hair shaft. The teachings of this invention may also be used:
a) for treatment of keratosis pilaris, this being an obstruction of the hair infundibulum by increased keratinisation.
b) treatment to intentionally induce a change in hair growth stage, this being useful in clinical situations such as in cancer related chemotherapy to prevent drug related effluvium. This is because the anagen stage is the most susceptible and a shift before treatment to a different state may help decrease or prevent drug related effluvium.
c) induced hair growth synchronization may be used to condition and optimize to various light assisted hair management treatments which are hair growth stage susceptible.
d) modify male beard growth to reduce frequency of required shaving.
4. The new treatment method can be combined with other hair management techniques for synergy and better cosmetic results, for example, with chemical epilation 15 or with other lotions applied for enhanced hair growth reduction/stoppage.
Such additional treatments are particularly effective after the hair shafts shed or are removed since, unlike when hair shafts are removed by plucking, waxing or similar techniques, which techniques result in edema which obstructs the infundibulum of the follicle, there is no such edema with the practice of this invention. Thus, these topical compounds 2o more easily enter the follicle and can therefore be more effective.
Therefore, the time after hair shedding may be an ideal time to apply such compounds. Soft waxing can also be used between light treatments. Internal, herbal or other natural medicines which effect hair growth management can also be used in combination with the treatments of this invention.
25 5. T'he new treatment method can be combined with additional skin treatments to enhance treatment results. For example, deep (up to the depth of the hair matrix) preheating of skin can increase the effect of the treatment. This preheating can be realized using an additional deep heating electromagnetic or acoustic device.
The time of preheating can be 1-10000 seconds. A hot bath and/or hot wax can be used for the same 30 propose. The same device as is used for treatment can also be used for preheating, but with a lower power setting. Another possible additional treatment can be massage for blood supply activation.
Treatment Parameters The concentration of melanin and the absorption of light in the hair matrix of anagen hair next to the hair papilla, and in particular in the matrix, is 3-10 times stronger than in the hair shaft. So the temperature rise of the matrix and of this area 1 is higher than in any other portion in the hair follicle, including the hair shaft. It is therefore possible to selectively treat the hair matrix, including the basement membrane portion thereof, and the adjacent hair papilla P (see Fig 1) without any damage to other parts of the follicle. The effect of this treatment can be a slow transition of an anagen hair follicle into the TGA or a modified phase.
l0 Parameters The range of parameter for the treatments of this invention has been determined for the following Tables and Figures from calculations of the Arrhenius integral A for this hottest area 1(Fig. 1) of the hair follicle. Minimal thermal injury is defined as A=0.1 15 and maximal injury is A=1 (or greater); however, since the area 1 heats significantly more strongly then other areas of the follicle/hair shaft when the follicle is irradiated, even for A=1 for area 1, there is little or no damage/trauma to the remainder of the follicle/hair shaft. For a low value of A, time required to arrest hair growth should be longer.
2o It should be understood that the following Tables and Figures have been derived from Arrhenius computations using known process parameters (activation energy and frequency factor) for the denaturation of structural cell proteins. The mechanisms 1 through 5 involve enzyme deactivation rather than protein denaturation. The former process typically requires less energy and is initiated at lower temperatures than the 25 latter. Therefore, the parameters below represent upper boundary estimates for power density and fluence that should be used in the practice of the present invention. It should be noted that the quantitative values of the Arrhenius parameters for the relevant processes are only known at present time with a limited accuracy. In addition, important contributions to the overall effect may be caused by non-Arrhenius-type processes (e.g., 30 deactivation of enzymes). Therefore, the range of parameters presented here should be considered exemplary and not limiting the scope of the present invention.
Fig. 2 shows the temperature given by the Arrhenius integral for A=0.1 (lower curve) and A=1 (upper curve). Using standard parameters of skin diffusion and thermal equations, power density and fluence needed for selective thermal injury of area 1, the hair matrix of dark/dirty blond or blonde hair, were calculated. Minimum fluence and power density were determined for dark hair and A=0.1. The light pulse used is assumed to be rectangular. Depending on the patient's hair and other factors, the temperature for a given treatment should fall between the two curves shown in Fig. 2.
Another variable factor for treatment is the sub-phase of the anagen phase. In early . anagen phase, the hair matrix can be close to the skin surface and more sensitive to shorter wavelengths.
l0 Table 1. Range of power density W/cm2 for low power photoepilation, minimum for dark hair and maximum for dark/dirty blond hair or blonde hair. The power density integrates for hair colors between those specified, and also integrates for wavelengths between those specified.
Wavelength,Pulsewidth, ms nm 0.1 1 10 100 1,000 10,000 100,000 600 2000- 210- 21- 4.0- 1.8- 1.3- 1.0-700 1500- 160- 16- 3.0- 1.4- 1.0- 0.75-800 2400- 260- 26- 4.8- 2.2- 1.6- 1.2-900 4300- 450- 45- 8.5- 4.0- 2.8- 2.1-86 1000 11000-1100- 110-420022-81010-3907.1-2705.4-220 1100 10000-1400- 140-520027-99012-4708.7-3406.6-270 600-12002500- 260- 27-990 5.0-1802.4-901.6-65 1.2-51 lamp 91000 9600 700-12003400- 360- 36-1300 6.8-2603.2-1202.2-87 1.7-69 lamp 13000013000 800-12005300- 550- 56-2100 10-3904.9-1803.4-1302.6-110 lamp 20000021000 Table 2. Range of fluence J/cm2 for low power photoepilation, minimum for dark hair and maximum for dark/dirty blonde hair or blonde hair. The fluence integrates for hair colors between those specified, and also integrates for wavelengths between those specified. Where the treatment involves multiple passes, the fluence given is generally per pass, and cumulative fluence may therefore be higher for the multiple passes.
Wavelength,Pulsewidth, ms ~
ntn 0.1 1 10 100 1,000 10,000 100,000 600 0.2-7.20.21-7.70.21-7.80.40-14 1.8-70 130- 100-700 0.15-5.20.16-5.90.16-6.00.30-11 1.4-53 10- 75-800 0.24-8.80.26-9.40.26-9.50.48-18 2.2-86 16 120-900 0.43-160.45-160.45-170.85-33 4 - 28- 210-1000 1.1-391.10-421.2-42 2.2-81 10-390 71-2700540-1100 1.0-491.40-521.4-52 2.7-99 12-470 87-3400660-1200 S.6-2106.0-2206-220 11-420 52-2000360-140002800-600-1200 0.25-9.10.26-9.60.27-9.90.50-18 2.4-90 16-650 120-lamp 5100 700-1200 0.34-130.36-130.36-130.68-26 3.2-12022-870 170-lamp 6900 800-1200 0.53-200.55-210.56-211-39 4.9-18034-1300260-lamp 11000 Table 3. Range of linear power densities (W/cm) for low power epilation by continuous wave (CW)lcontinuous contact scanning (CCS) method (US patent 6,273,884) as a function of scanning speed, minimum for dark hair and maximum for dark/diriy blond or blonde hair.
Wavelength,Speed of scanning, cm/sec nm 1 2 5 7.5 10 15 20 600 1.8-65 2.2-78 3.2-1153.8-1304.2-156 5.4-1956.4-700 1.4 - 1.7-60 2.4 2.8 3.2 - 4 - 4.8 800 1.6-60 2-70 2.8-1003.4-1203.8-140 4.8-1705.6-900 2.2 - 2.6 3.8 4.6 5.2 - 6.6 7.6 1000 5.4 - 6.4 9.4 11 - 13 -470 16-600 19 1100 8.6 -31011 - 15 - 18 - 20 - 26 -93530 600-12001.7 - 2.2 3 - 3.6 4 - 155 5.2 6 -lamp 700-12002.2 - 2.6 3.8 4.6 5.2 - 6.6 7.6 lamp 285 800-12003.4 - 4.2 6 - 7.2 8 - 340 10 - 12 lamp 440 For contact scanning with a continuous wave (CW) source (for example as described in US patent 6,273,884), typical temperatures and damage dynamics in the hair matrix are shown for the model of a hair bulb in Fig. 3.
In Fig. 3, the numbers have the following significance:
Matrix (including the basement membrane) 2. Papilla (center) 3. Papilla (right) 4. Papilla (bottom) Fig. 4 shows the temperature pulses for movement of a CW head at 30 mm/s skin type II on 1-matrix/basement membrane, 2-papilla center, 3-papilla edge, 4-papilla bottom. For CW treatment, effective temperature and pulsewidth depend on speed of movement of the head. For example, for movement of the CW head at 30 mm/s, a full width half maximum (FWHM) temperature pulse is 220 ms.
After several treatments, parameters lower than those specified in Tables l, 2, 3 can be used to maintain good cosmetic results.
Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary section 10 of a patient's skin with an apparatus 11 suitable for practicing the teachings of this invention positioned thereon.
Skin 10 has an epidermal layer 12 separated from an underlying dermal layer 14 by a basal layer 15, there being a subdermal layer 16 under the dermal layer. A normal hair follicle 18 in anagen state is shown with its matrix and papilla extending into subdermal layer 16, and to a follicle 20 in the transitional growth arrested state is also shown, the matrix for this follicle being much higher in the dermal layer of the skin. Apparatus 11 includes a head 22 in contact with the patient's skin connected to a control box 24 by an umbilical 26.
Head 22 preferably contains the radiation source, for example one or more laser diodes, LEDs, lamps or other suitable optical radiation source. Power may be provided to the sources) from a power supply in control 24 through umbilical 26 or head 22 may contain a battery or other suitable power supply. Control electronics may also be in box 24. It is also possible for the radiation source to be in box 24, radiation from this source being applied to head 22 through the umbilical. Where the radiation source, power supply and controls can be fitted in head 22, control box 24 and umbilical 26 may be 2o eliminated. Head 22 may move or scan over the surface of skin 10 at a selected rate, with the radiation source being a CW source or suitable pulsed source, or the source may be a pulsed source with head 22 being sequentially moved to selected treatment areas on the skin.
Where the invention is being used in a CW/CCS mode, apparatus such as that taught in US patent 6,273,884 may be utilized in practicing the teachings of the invention, the apparatus being operated with the power densities and other parameters specified herein. GaAs or other diode lasers, laser bars, LEDs, fiber lasers, gas discharged Xe or Kr lamps, halogen and tungsten lamps with proper color temperature and filtering, other lamps or other suitable light sources can be used as light sources.
3o Where the invention is being operated in pulse mode, a variety of optical dermatology apparatus, either utilizing a coherenblaser source, LED, incoherent/lamp or other suitable optical radiation source, may be utilized. Since for this method of treatment, both low cost and efficacy of the source used are very important, preferable light sources are diode lasers or laser bars, LEDs, fiber lasers, gas discharge lamps, and halogen or tungsten lamps with proper color temperature and filtering. Gas discharge and tungsten lamps can be linear, circular, U-shaped, etc. The color temperature of a lamp can in the range 2500-6000° I~ and can be increased by the use of short arc lamps. For example, a short arc xenon lamp can be packaged in ceramic-to-metal construction integrated with a reflector.
Regardless of the apparatus utilized, it needs to be operated in the power density and other parameter ranges taught above. Because of the relatively low power densities required by this invention, a relatively small, light, inexpensive and safe radiation source can generally be employed.
l0 While the invention has been described above with respect to preferred embodiments, these are being provided by way of illustration only, and the methods described, the apparatus and the treatment parameters may vary depending on patient, the treatment being performed and other factors. Such variations, as well as other variations in forni and detail, would be apparent to one ordinarily skilled in the art.
Thus, the 15 invention is to be limited only by the appended claims.
Claims (21)
1. A method for hair growth management in a treatment area of a patient's skin including:
applying optical radiation to hair follicles in said treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient to at least traumatize a matrix portion of at least selected said follicles, but not to cause either necrosis of most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein.
applying optical radiation to hair follicles in said treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient to at least traumatize a matrix portion of at least selected said follicles, but not to cause either necrosis of most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein.
2. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein each follicle matrix includes a basement membrane between the matrix and papilla of the follicle, and wherein the basement membrane of the follicle is traumatized.
3. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said matrix of each follicle being treated is heated to a temperatures in the range indicated in Fig. 2, but at least most of each such follicle is at a temperature below said range.
4. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein the ranges for the wavelengths, power density and duration are substantially within the ranges provided in Table 1, depending on the color of hair shafts in the treatment area.
5. A method as claimed in claim 1 including the step of repeating the treatment method at selected time intervals.
6. A method as claimed in claim 5 wherein said selected time intervals range is from approximately one day to eight weeks.
7. A method as claimed in claim 5 wherein said selected time intervals range is from approximately one week to six weeks.
8. A method as claimed in claim 1 including the step of stripping loose hairs from the treatment area at a time approximately one to two weeks after the method is performed.
9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein said stripping step comprises using a tape to remove loose hairs from the treatment area.
10. A method as claimed in claim 1 including the step of scanning optical radiation from said source over said treatment area at a speed generally within the ranges indicated in Table 3, the power densities of radiation from said source depending on the wavelength of the source, the width of the scanning beam and the scanning speed, generally as indicated in Table 3.
11. A method as claimed in claim 10, wherein said optical radiation is from a continuous wave radiation source.
12. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein at least selected portions of said treatment area are irradiated a plurality of times during a treatment.
13. A method for hair growth management in a treatment area of a patient's skin including:
applying optical radiation to hair follicles in said treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient to drive said follicles into a transitional growth arrested state, but not to cause either necrosis of most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein.
applying optical radiation to hair follicles in said treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient to drive said follicles into a transitional growth arrested state, but not to cause either necrosis of most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein.
14. A method as claimed in claim 13 including the step of repeating the treatment method at selected time intervals.
15. Apparatus for hair growth management in a treatment area of a patient's skin including:
a source of optical radiation; and a mechanism for applying said radiation to the treatment area;
said source being of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient when applied to hair follicles in said treatment area to at least traumatize at least a matrix portion of at least selected said follicles, but not to cause necrosis of either most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein.
a source of optical radiation; and a mechanism for applying said radiation to the treatment area;
said source being of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient when applied to hair follicles in said treatment area to at least traumatize at least a matrix portion of at least selected said follicles, but not to cause necrosis of either most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein.
16. Apparatus as claimed in claim 15 wherein the ranges for the wavelengths, power density and duration are substantially within the ranges provided in Table 1, depending on the color of hair shafts in the treatment area.
17. A method for hair growth management in a treatment area of a patient's skin including:
applying optical radiation to hair follicles in said treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient to at least traumatize a matrix portion of at least selected said follicles, but not to cause either necrosis of most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein; and repeating said applying step at selected time intervals.
applying optical radiation to hair follicles in said treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient to at least traumatize a matrix portion of at least selected said follicles, but not to cause either necrosis of most of each said follicle or immediate gross alteration of any hair shaft therein; and repeating said applying step at selected time intervals.
18. A method for hair growth management in a treatment area of a patient's skin including:
applying optical radiation to hair follicles in said treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient to dry said follicles into a transitional growth arrested state, but not to cause necrosis of at least a portion of the hair follicle.
applying optical radiation to hair follicles in said treatment area of a wavelength, power density and duration sufficient to dry said follicles into a transitional growth arrested state, but not to cause necrosis of at least a portion of the hair follicle.
19. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said matrix of each follicle being treated is heated to a temperature between about 55°C and about 70°C.
20. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein the wavelength is between about 600 nm and about 1200 nm.
21. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein the duration is between about 0.1 ms and about 100,000 ms.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US36387102P | 2002-03-12 | 2002-03-12 | |
| US60/363,871 | 2002-03-12 | ||
| PCT/US2003/007714 WO2003077783A1 (en) | 2002-03-12 | 2003-03-12 | Method and apparatus for hair growth management |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2484400A1 true CA2484400A1 (en) | 2003-09-25 |
Family
ID=28041822
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002484400A Abandoned CA2484400A1 (en) | 2002-03-12 | 2003-03-12 | Method and apparatus for hair growth management |
Country Status (7)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US7044959B2 (en) |
| EP (1) | EP1482848A4 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2005519692A (en) |
| CN (1) | CN1652729A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2484400A1 (en) |
| IL (1) | IL163946A0 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2003077783A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (94)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7141049B2 (en) * | 1999-03-09 | 2006-11-28 | Thermage, Inc. | Handpiece for treatment of tissue |
| US7189230B2 (en) * | 1996-01-05 | 2007-03-13 | Thermage, Inc. | Method for treating skin and underlying tissue |
| US7229436B2 (en) * | 1996-01-05 | 2007-06-12 | Thermage, Inc. | Method and kit for treatment of tissue |
| US7115123B2 (en) * | 1996-01-05 | 2006-10-03 | Thermage, Inc. | Handpiece with electrode and non-volatile memory |
| US7452358B2 (en) * | 1996-01-05 | 2008-11-18 | Thermage, Inc. | RF electrode assembly for handpiece |
| US7473251B2 (en) * | 1996-01-05 | 2009-01-06 | Thermage, Inc. | Methods for creating tissue effect utilizing electromagnetic energy and a reverse thermal gradient |
| US20030212393A1 (en) * | 1996-01-05 | 2003-11-13 | Knowlton Edward W. | Handpiece with RF electrode and non-volatile memory |
| US8182473B2 (en) * | 1999-01-08 | 2012-05-22 | Palomar Medical Technologies | Cooling system for a photocosmetic device |
| US6517532B1 (en) | 1997-05-15 | 2003-02-11 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Light energy delivery head |
| US6273884B1 (en) | 1997-05-15 | 2001-08-14 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus for dermatology treatment |
| US20060149343A1 (en) * | 1996-12-02 | 2006-07-06 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Cooling system for a photocosmetic device |
| US6104959A (en) | 1997-07-31 | 2000-08-15 | Microwave Medical Corp. | Method and apparatus for treating subcutaneous histological features |
| EP1062001B1 (en) | 1998-03-12 | 2005-07-27 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | System for electromagnetic radiation of the skin |
| US20020156471A1 (en) * | 1999-03-09 | 2002-10-24 | Stern Roger A. | Method for treatment of tissue |
| AU784423B2 (en) * | 2000-01-25 | 2006-03-30 | General Hospital Corporation, The | Method and apparatus for medical treatment utilizing long duration electromagnetic radiation |
| CA2433022C (en) * | 2000-12-28 | 2016-12-06 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus for therapeutic emr treatment of the skin |
| US20080172047A1 (en) * | 2000-12-28 | 2008-07-17 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Methods And Devices For Fractional Ablation Of Tissue |
| US6888319B2 (en) * | 2001-03-01 | 2005-05-03 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Flashlamp drive circuit |
| EP1365699A2 (en) * | 2001-03-02 | 2003-12-03 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Apparatus and method for photocosmetic and photodermatological treatment |
| WO2003057059A1 (en) * | 2001-12-27 | 2003-07-17 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus for improved vascular related treatment |
| US20070038206A1 (en) * | 2004-12-09 | 2007-02-15 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Photocosmetic device |
| BR0311901A (en) * | 2002-06-19 | 2005-04-05 | Gen Hospital Corp | Process and apparatus for photothermal deep tissue treatment |
| BR0312430A (en) | 2002-06-19 | 2005-04-26 | Palomar Medical Tech Inc | Method and apparatus for treating skin and subcutaneous conditions |
| US20070219605A1 (en) * | 2006-03-20 | 2007-09-20 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Treatment of tissue volume with radiant energy |
| CN1708261B (en) | 2002-10-23 | 2012-07-04 | 帕洛玛医疗技术公司 | Phototreatment device for use with coolants and topical substances |
| US7931028B2 (en) | 2003-08-26 | 2011-04-26 | Jay Harvey H | Skin injury or damage prevention method using optical radiation |
| US6824542B2 (en) * | 2002-11-08 | 2004-11-30 | Harvey H. Jay | Temporary hair removal method |
| AU2003301111A1 (en) * | 2002-12-20 | 2004-07-22 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Apparatus for light treatment of acne and other disorders of follicles |
| EP1610866A2 (en) * | 2003-02-10 | 2006-01-04 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Light emitting oral appliance and method of use |
| WO2004073537A2 (en) * | 2003-02-19 | 2004-09-02 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus for treating pseudofolliculitis barbae |
| WO2004077020A2 (en) * | 2003-02-25 | 2004-09-10 | Spectragenics, Inc. | Skin sensing method and apparatus |
| WO2004075731A2 (en) * | 2003-02-25 | 2004-09-10 | Spectragenics, Inc. | Acne treatment device and method |
| EP1596745B1 (en) * | 2003-02-25 | 2016-02-17 | Tria Beauty, Inc. | Self-contained, diode-laser-based dermatologic treatment apparatus |
| WO2004075976A2 (en) | 2003-02-25 | 2004-09-10 | Spectragenics, Inc. | Method and apparatus for the treatment of benign pigmented lesions |
| US8709003B2 (en) * | 2003-02-25 | 2014-04-29 | Tria Beauty, Inc. | Capacitive sensing method and device for detecting skin |
| ES2570989T3 (en) * | 2003-02-25 | 2016-05-23 | Tria Beauty Inc | Safe dermatological treatment device for the eye |
| EP2604216B1 (en) * | 2003-02-25 | 2018-08-22 | Tria Beauty, Inc. | Self-contained, diode-laser-based dermatologic treatment apparatus |
| ES2570985T3 (en) * | 2003-02-25 | 2016-05-23 | Tria Beauty Inc | Apparatus and procedure for inhibiting new hair growth, safe for the eye and autonomous |
| WO2004080279A2 (en) * | 2003-03-06 | 2004-09-23 | Spectragenics, Inc. | In the patent cooperation treaty application for patent |
| US7291140B2 (en) * | 2003-07-18 | 2007-11-06 | Cutera, Inc. | System and method for low average power dermatologic light treatment device |
| JP5103012B2 (en) * | 2003-08-18 | 2012-12-19 | コーニンクレッカ フィリップス エレクトロニクス エヌ ヴィ | Low intensity optical hair growth control device and method |
| US7722600B2 (en) | 2003-08-25 | 2010-05-25 | Cutera, Inc. | System and method for heating skin using light to provide tissue treatment |
| US8915906B2 (en) * | 2003-08-25 | 2014-12-23 | Cutera, Inc. | Method for treatment of post-partum abdominal skin redundancy or laxity |
| US8870856B2 (en) | 2003-08-25 | 2014-10-28 | Cutera, Inc. | Method for heating skin using light to provide tissue treatment |
| US20080172045A1 (en) * | 2003-10-24 | 2008-07-17 | Shanks Steven C | Acne treatment device |
| US7326199B2 (en) * | 2003-12-22 | 2008-02-05 | Cutera, Inc. | System and method for flexible architecture for dermatologic treatments utilizing multiple light sources |
| US7220254B2 (en) * | 2003-12-31 | 2007-05-22 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Dermatological treatment with visualization |
| US8777935B2 (en) | 2004-02-25 | 2014-07-15 | Tria Beauty, Inc. | Optical sensor and method for identifying the presence of skin |
| AU2005231443B2 (en) | 2004-04-01 | 2012-02-23 | The General Hospital Corporation | Method and apparatus for dermatological treatment and tissue reshaping |
| CA2561344A1 (en) * | 2004-04-09 | 2005-10-27 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Methods and products for producing lattices of emr-treated islets in tissues, and uses therefor |
| US7837675B2 (en) * | 2004-07-22 | 2010-11-23 | Shaser, Inc. | Method and device for skin treatment with replaceable photosensitive window |
| US20060079947A1 (en) * | 2004-09-28 | 2006-04-13 | Tankovich Nikolai I | Methods and apparatus for modulation of the immune response using light-based fractional treatment |
| MX2007007622A (en) * | 2004-12-22 | 2007-08-03 | Gillette Co | Reduction of hair growth. |
| AU2005319166A1 (en) * | 2004-12-22 | 2006-06-29 | The Gillette Company | Reduction of hair growth with survivin inhibitors |
| CA2589875A1 (en) * | 2004-12-22 | 2006-06-29 | The Gillette Company | Reduction of hair growth |
| US7291141B2 (en) * | 2005-02-02 | 2007-11-06 | Jay Harvey H | Method and apparatus for enhancing hair removal |
| AU2006214028A1 (en) * | 2005-02-18 | 2006-08-24 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Dermatological treatment device |
| US20060253176A1 (en) * | 2005-02-18 | 2006-11-09 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Dermatological treatment device with deflector optic |
| US7856985B2 (en) | 2005-04-22 | 2010-12-28 | Cynosure, Inc. | Method of treatment body tissue using a non-uniform laser beam |
| WO2006125367A1 (en) * | 2005-05-24 | 2006-11-30 | Dickson Industrial Co., Ltd. | Scalp care apparatus |
| US20060293728A1 (en) * | 2005-06-24 | 2006-12-28 | Roersma Michiel E | Device and method for low intensity optical hair growth control |
| CN101309631A (en) | 2005-09-15 | 2008-11-19 | 帕洛玛医疗技术公司 | Skin optical characterization device |
| US20070194717A1 (en) * | 2006-02-17 | 2007-08-23 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Lamp for use in a tissue treatment device |
| EP1996290A4 (en) * | 2006-03-03 | 2013-03-27 | Alma Lasers Ltd | Method and apparatus for light-based hair removal using incoherent light pulses |
| WO2007099546A2 (en) * | 2006-03-03 | 2007-09-07 | Alma Lasers Ltd. | Method and apparatus for light-based hair removal using incoherent light pulses |
| US20070255355A1 (en) * | 2006-04-06 | 2007-11-01 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Apparatus and method for skin treatment with compression and decompression |
| JP5010327B2 (en) * | 2006-06-26 | 2012-08-29 | パナソニック株式会社 | Hair growth regulator |
| US7586957B2 (en) | 2006-08-02 | 2009-09-08 | Cynosure, Inc | Picosecond laser apparatus and methods for its operation and use |
| WO2008109554A1 (en) * | 2007-03-02 | 2008-09-12 | Candela Corporation | Variable depth skin heating with lasers |
| WO2008131306A1 (en) | 2007-04-19 | 2008-10-30 | The Foundry, Inc. | Systems and methods for creating an effect using microwave energy to specified tissue |
| RU2523620C2 (en) | 2007-04-19 | 2014-07-20 | Мирамар Лэбс,Инк. | Systems and methods for generating exposure on target tissue with using microwave energy |
| US9149331B2 (en) | 2007-04-19 | 2015-10-06 | Miramar Labs, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for reducing sweat production |
| US20100114086A1 (en) | 2007-04-19 | 2010-05-06 | Deem Mark E | Methods, devices, and systems for non-invasive delivery of microwave therapy |
| US20080262484A1 (en) * | 2007-04-23 | 2008-10-23 | Nlight Photonics Corporation | Motion-controlled laser surface treatment apparatus |
| BRPI0820706B8 (en) | 2007-12-12 | 2021-06-22 | Miramar Labs Inc | disposable medical device for use with an applicator |
| EP2231274B1 (en) | 2007-12-12 | 2014-03-12 | Miramar Labs, Inc. | System and apparatus for the noninvasive treatment of tissue using microwave energy |
| RU2497479C2 (en) * | 2008-03-07 | 2013-11-10 | Конинклейке Филипс Электроникс Н.В. | Device for photodepilation |
| EP2271276A4 (en) | 2008-04-17 | 2013-01-23 | Miramar Labs Inc | Systems, apparatus, methods and procedures for the noninvasive treatment of tissue using microwave energy |
| US9687671B2 (en) * | 2008-04-25 | 2017-06-27 | Channel Investments, Llc | Optical sensor and method for identifying the presence of skin and the pigmentation of skin |
| US9919168B2 (en) | 2009-07-23 | 2018-03-20 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Method for improvement of cellulite appearance |
| US20110190745A1 (en) * | 2009-12-04 | 2011-08-04 | Uebelhoer Nathan S | Treatment of sweat glands |
| US9314301B2 (en) | 2011-08-01 | 2016-04-19 | Miramar Labs, Inc. | Applicator and tissue interface module for dermatological device |
| KR102183581B1 (en) | 2012-04-18 | 2020-11-27 | 싸이노슈어, 엘엘씨 | Picosecond laser apparatus and methods for treating target tissues with same |
| EP2973894A2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2016-01-20 | Cynosure, Inc. | Picosecond optical radiation systems and methods of use |
| WO2015013502A2 (en) | 2013-07-24 | 2015-01-29 | Miramar Labs, Inc. | Apparatus and methods for the treatment of tissue using microwave energy |
| CN105105917A (en) * | 2015-08-01 | 2015-12-02 | 王素常 | Hair laser photocoagulator |
| EP3202351B1 (en) | 2016-02-02 | 2021-08-25 | Braun GmbH | Skin treatment device |
| CN111315253B (en) * | 2017-09-10 | 2023-07-21 | 皇家飞利浦有限公司 | Hair styling apparatus |
| US11400308B2 (en) | 2017-11-21 | 2022-08-02 | Cutera, Inc. | Dermatological picosecond laser treatment systems and methods using optical parametric oscillator |
| SG11202008151QA (en) | 2018-02-26 | 2020-09-29 | Cynosure Inc | Q-switched cavity dumped sub-nanosecond laser |
| CN109011138A (en) * | 2018-05-07 | 2018-12-18 | 北京全贵医疗科技有限公司 | Physical therapy of head method and device based on head image |
| MX2021014874A (en) | 2019-06-03 | 2022-03-25 | Cooler Heads Care Inc | Cooling cap assembly and cooling unit. |
| US11253720B2 (en) | 2020-02-29 | 2022-02-22 | Cutera, Inc. | Dermatological systems and methods with handpiece for coaxial pulse delivery and temperature sensing |
| US10864380B1 (en) | 2020-02-29 | 2020-12-15 | Cutera, Inc. | Systems and methods for controlling therapeutic laser pulse duration |
Family Cites Families (129)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3327712A (en) * | 1961-09-15 | 1967-06-27 | Ira H Kaufman | Photocoagulation type fiber optical surgical device |
| US3538919A (en) | 1967-04-07 | 1970-11-10 | Gregory System Inc | Depilation by means of laser energy |
| US3527932A (en) * | 1967-11-16 | 1970-09-08 | James J Thomas | Transilluminating flashlight |
| US3622743A (en) | 1969-04-28 | 1971-11-23 | Hrand M Muncheryan | Laser eraser and microwelder |
| US3693623A (en) * | 1970-12-25 | 1972-09-26 | Gregory System Inc | Photocoagulation means and method for depilation |
| US3818914A (en) * | 1972-04-17 | 1974-06-25 | Spectroderm Inc | Apparatus and method for treatment of skin disorders |
| US3834391A (en) | 1973-01-19 | 1974-09-10 | Block Carol Ltd | Method and apparatus for photoepilation |
| US3900034A (en) * | 1974-04-10 | 1975-08-19 | Us Energy | Photochemical stimulation of nerves |
| GB1485908A (en) | 1974-05-21 | 1977-09-14 | Nath G | Apparatus for applying light radiation |
| US4273109A (en) * | 1976-07-06 | 1981-06-16 | Cavitron Corporation | Fiber optic light delivery apparatus and medical instrument utilizing same |
| GB2071500B (en) | 1980-02-27 | 1984-03-21 | Nath G | Coagulator |
| US4316467A (en) * | 1980-06-23 | 1982-02-23 | Lorenzo P. Maun | Control for laser hemangioma treatment system |
| US4388924A (en) * | 1981-05-21 | 1983-06-21 | Weissman Howard R | Method for laser depilation |
| US4461294A (en) * | 1982-01-20 | 1984-07-24 | Baron Neville A | Apparatus and process for recurving the cornea of an eye |
| GB2123287B (en) | 1982-07-09 | 1986-03-05 | Anna Gunilla Sutton | Depilaton device |
| JPS60123818A (en) * | 1983-12-08 | 1985-07-02 | Olympus Optical Co Ltd | Optical transmitter |
| US4608978A (en) | 1983-09-26 | 1986-09-02 | Carol Block Limited | Method and apparatus for photoepiltion |
| US5140984A (en) * | 1983-10-06 | 1992-08-25 | Proclosure, Inc. | Laser healing method and apparatus |
| US5108388B1 (en) * | 1983-12-15 | 2000-09-19 | Visx Inc | Laser surgery method |
| JPS60148567A (en) * | 1984-01-13 | 1985-08-05 | 株式会社東芝 | Laser treatment apparatus |
| IL75998A0 (en) * | 1984-08-07 | 1985-12-31 | Medical Laser Research & Dev C | Laser system for providing target tissue specific energy deposition |
| DE3666773D1 (en) * | 1985-03-29 | 1989-12-14 | Eugene Jim Politzer | Method and apparatus for shaving the beard |
| US5196004A (en) * | 1985-07-31 | 1993-03-23 | C. R. Bard, Inc. | Infrared laser catheter system |
| US4917084A (en) * | 1985-07-31 | 1990-04-17 | C. R. Bard, Inc. | Infrared laser catheter system |
| US5137530A (en) * | 1985-09-27 | 1992-08-11 | Sand Bruce J | Collagen treatment apparatus |
| US4695697A (en) | 1985-12-13 | 1987-09-22 | Gv Medical, Inc. | Fiber tip monitoring and protection assembly |
| GB2184021A (en) * | 1985-12-13 | 1987-06-17 | Micra Ltd | Laser treatment apparatus for port wine stains |
| FR2597744A1 (en) * | 1986-04-29 | 1987-10-30 | Boussignac Georges | CARDIO-VASCULAR CATHETER FOR LASER SHOOTING |
| US4926227A (en) * | 1986-08-01 | 1990-05-15 | Nanometrics Inc. | Sensor devices with internal packaged coolers |
| US4860744A (en) * | 1987-11-02 | 1989-08-29 | Raj K. Anand | Thermoelectrically controlled heat medical catheter |
| US4860172A (en) * | 1988-01-19 | 1989-08-22 | Biotronics Associates, Inc. | Lamp-based laser simulator |
| US5242437A (en) * | 1988-06-10 | 1993-09-07 | Trimedyne Laser Systems, Inc. | Medical device applying localized high intensity light and heat, particularly for destruction of the endometrium |
| US4945239A (en) * | 1989-03-29 | 1990-07-31 | Center For Innovative Technology | Early detection of breast cancer using transillumination |
| US5263951A (en) | 1989-04-21 | 1993-11-23 | Kerus Medical Systems | Correction of the optical focusing system of the eye using laser thermal keratoplasty |
| US5486172A (en) * | 1989-05-30 | 1996-01-23 | Chess; Cyrus | Apparatus for treating cutaneous vascular lesions |
| US5057104A (en) * | 1989-05-30 | 1991-10-15 | Cyrus Chess | Method and apparatus for treating cutaneous vascular lesions |
| US5182557A (en) * | 1989-09-20 | 1993-01-26 | Semborg Recrob, Corp. | Motorized joystick |
| DE3936367A1 (en) * | 1989-11-02 | 1991-05-08 | Simon Pal | SHAVER |
| SE465953B (en) * | 1990-04-09 | 1991-11-25 | Morgan Gustafsson | DEVICE FOR TREATMENT OF UNDESECTED EXTERNAL ACCOMMODATIONS |
| US5059192A (en) | 1990-04-24 | 1991-10-22 | Nardo Zaias | Method of hair depilation |
| US5071417A (en) | 1990-06-15 | 1991-12-10 | Rare Earth Medical Lasers, Inc. | Laser fusion of biological materials |
| US5065515A (en) | 1991-01-24 | 1991-11-19 | Warner-Lambert Company | Thermally assisted shaving system |
| US5300097A (en) * | 1991-02-13 | 1994-04-05 | Lerner Ethan A | Fiber optic psoriasis treatment device |
| US5207671A (en) * | 1991-04-02 | 1993-05-04 | Franken Peter A | Laser debridement of wounds |
| US5474549A (en) | 1991-07-09 | 1995-12-12 | Laserscope | Method and system for scanning a laser beam for controlled distribution of laser dosage |
| US5178617A (en) * | 1991-07-09 | 1993-01-12 | Laserscope | System for controlled distribution of laser dosage |
| US5225926A (en) * | 1991-09-04 | 1993-07-06 | International Business Machines Corporation | Durable optical elements fabricated from free standing polycrystalline diamond and non-hydrogenated amorphous diamond like carbon (dlc) thin films |
| US5370642A (en) * | 1991-09-25 | 1994-12-06 | Keller; Gregory S. | Method of laser cosmetic surgery |
| US5817089A (en) | 1991-10-29 | 1998-10-06 | Thermolase Corporation | Skin treatment process using laser |
| US5871480A (en) * | 1991-10-29 | 1999-02-16 | Thermolase Corporation | Hair removal using photosensitizer and laser |
| US5226907A (en) | 1991-10-29 | 1993-07-13 | Tankovich Nikolai I | Hair removal device and method |
| US5425728A (en) * | 1991-10-29 | 1995-06-20 | Tankovich; Nicolai I. | Hair removal device and method |
| US5344418A (en) * | 1991-12-12 | 1994-09-06 | Shahriar Ghaffari | Optical system for treatment of vascular lesions |
| US5275596A (en) * | 1991-12-23 | 1994-01-04 | Laser Centers Of America | Laser energy delivery tip element with throughflow of vaporized materials |
| IL100545A (en) | 1991-12-29 | 1995-03-15 | Dimotech Ltd | Apparatus for photodynamic therapy treatment |
| US5405368A (en) * | 1992-10-20 | 1995-04-11 | Esc Inc. | Method and apparatus for therapeutic electromagnetic treatment |
| US5334191A (en) * | 1992-05-21 | 1994-08-02 | Dix Phillip Poppas | Laser tissue welding control system |
| DE69311478T2 (en) | 1992-09-07 | 1998-01-02 | Philips Electronics Nv | Method for producing a block-shaped carrier body for a semiconductor component |
| US6280438B1 (en) * | 1992-10-20 | 2001-08-28 | Esc Medical Systems Ltd. | Method and apparatus for electromagnetic treatment of the skin, including hair depilation |
| US5720772A (en) * | 1992-10-20 | 1998-02-24 | Esc Medical Systems Ltd. | Method and apparatus for therapeutic electromagnetic treatment |
| US5683380A (en) | 1995-03-29 | 1997-11-04 | Esc Medical Systems Ltd. | Method and apparatus for depilation using pulsed electromagnetic radiation |
| US5626631A (en) * | 1992-10-20 | 1997-05-06 | Esc Medical Systems Ltd. | Method and apparatus for therapeutic electromagnetic treatment |
| US5620478A (en) * | 1992-10-20 | 1997-04-15 | Esc Medical Systems Ltd. | Method and apparatus for therapeutic electromagnetic treatment |
| US6315772B1 (en) * | 1993-09-24 | 2001-11-13 | Transmedica International, Inc. | Laser assisted pharmaceutical delivery and fluid removal |
| US5334193A (en) * | 1992-11-13 | 1994-08-02 | American Cardiac Ablation Co., Inc. | Fluid cooled ablation catheter |
| US5707403A (en) * | 1993-02-24 | 1998-01-13 | Star Medical Technologies, Inc. | Method for the laser treatment of subsurface blood vessels |
| US5304170A (en) * | 1993-03-12 | 1994-04-19 | Green Howard A | Method of laser-induced tissue necrosis in carotenoid-containing skin structures |
| US5350376A (en) | 1993-04-16 | 1994-09-27 | Ceramoptec, Inc. | Optical controller device |
| US5403306A (en) * | 1993-06-22 | 1995-04-04 | Vanderbilt University | Laser surgery method |
| US5415654A (en) * | 1993-10-05 | 1995-05-16 | S.L.T. Japan Co., Ltd. | Laser balloon catheter apparatus |
| US5885211A (en) * | 1993-11-15 | 1999-03-23 | Spectrix, Inc. | Microporation of human skin for monitoring the concentration of an analyte |
| US5413587A (en) * | 1993-11-22 | 1995-05-09 | Hochstein; Peter A. | Infrared heating apparatus and methods |
| US20020019624A1 (en) * | 1993-12-08 | 2002-02-14 | Clement Robert Marc | Depilation |
| US5505726A (en) * | 1994-03-21 | 1996-04-09 | Dusa Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | Article of manufacture for the photodynamic therapy of dermal lesion |
| US5616140A (en) * | 1994-03-21 | 1997-04-01 | Prescott; Marvin | Method and apparatus for therapeutic laser treatment |
| US5519534A (en) * | 1994-05-25 | 1996-05-21 | The Government Of The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Department Of Health And Human Services | Irradiance attachment for an optical fiber to provide a uniform level of illumination across a plane |
| US5698866A (en) | 1994-09-19 | 1997-12-16 | Pdt Systems, Inc. | Uniform illuminator for phototherapy |
| US5522813A (en) * | 1994-09-23 | 1996-06-04 | Coherent, Inc. | Method of treating veins |
| US5531739A (en) * | 1994-09-23 | 1996-07-02 | Coherent, Inc. | Method of treating veins |
| US5662643A (en) | 1994-09-28 | 1997-09-02 | Abiomed R & D, Inc. | Laser welding system |
| US5735884A (en) * | 1994-10-04 | 1998-04-07 | Medtronic, Inc. | Filtered feedthrough assembly for implantable medical device |
| US5558667A (en) | 1994-12-14 | 1996-09-24 | Coherent, Inc. | Method and apparatus for treating vascular lesions |
| US5595568A (en) * | 1995-02-01 | 1997-01-21 | The General Hospital Corporation | Permanent hair removal using optical pulses |
| US5735844A (en) * | 1995-02-01 | 1998-04-07 | The General Hospital Corporation | Hair removal using optical pulses |
| US5885273A (en) * | 1995-03-29 | 1999-03-23 | Esc Medical Systems, Ltd. | Method for depilation using pulsed electromagnetic radiation |
| US5658323A (en) * | 1995-07-12 | 1997-08-19 | Miller; Iain D. | Method and apparatus for dermatology treatment |
| US5879376A (en) * | 1995-07-12 | 1999-03-09 | Luxar Corporation | Method and apparatus for dermatology treatment |
| US5849029A (en) | 1995-12-26 | 1998-12-15 | Esc Medical Systems, Ltd. | Method for controlling the thermal profile of the skin |
| US5836999A (en) | 1995-09-28 | 1998-11-17 | Esc Medical Systems Ltd. | Method and apparatus for treating psoriasis using pulsed electromagnetic radiation |
| US5824023A (en) | 1995-10-12 | 1998-10-20 | The General Hospital Corporation | Radiation-delivery device |
| US5916211A (en) * | 1995-11-03 | 1999-06-29 | Quon; Hew W. | Permanent hair removal using visible red wavelength spectrum lasers |
| GB9602375D0 (en) * | 1996-02-06 | 1996-04-03 | Jones Gary L | Laser depilation apparatus and method |
| US5630811A (en) | 1996-03-25 | 1997-05-20 | Miller; Iain D. | Method and apparatus for hair removal |
| DE19612057A1 (en) | 1996-03-27 | 1997-10-02 | Antiseptica Chem Pharm Prod Gm | Hand disinfectant |
| US5662644A (en) | 1996-05-14 | 1997-09-02 | Mdlt, Inc. | Dermatological laser apparatus and method |
| US5655547A (en) * | 1996-05-15 | 1997-08-12 | Esc Medical Systems Ltd. | Method for laser surgery |
| US5743901A (en) * | 1996-05-15 | 1998-04-28 | Star Medical Technologies, Inc. | High fluence diode laser device and method for the fabrication and use thereof |
| AU3813897A (en) * | 1996-07-25 | 1998-02-20 | Light Medicine, Inc. | Photodynamic therapy apparatus and methods |
| US5820626A (en) | 1996-07-30 | 1998-10-13 | Laser Aesthetics, Inc. | Cooling laser handpiece with refillable coolant reservoir |
| US6096029A (en) * | 1997-02-24 | 2000-08-01 | Laser Skin Toner, Inc. | Laser method for subsurface cutaneous treatment |
| US5759200A (en) * | 1996-09-04 | 1998-06-02 | Azar; Zion | Method of selective photothermolysis |
| JP3036232U (en) | 1996-09-26 | 1997-04-15 | ヤーマン株式会社 | Optical hair removal device |
| US5782249A (en) * | 1996-09-30 | 1998-07-21 | Weber; Paul J. | Laser manicure process |
| US6228075B1 (en) * | 1996-11-07 | 2001-05-08 | Cynosure, Inc. | Alexandrite laser system for hair removal |
| US6517532B1 (en) * | 1997-05-15 | 2003-02-11 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Light energy delivery head |
| US6653618B2 (en) * | 2000-04-28 | 2003-11-25 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Contact detecting method and apparatus for an optical radiation handpiece |
| US6015404A (en) * | 1996-12-02 | 2000-01-18 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Laser dermatology with feedback control |
| US6273884B1 (en) * | 1997-05-15 | 2001-08-14 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus for dermatology treatment |
| US7204832B2 (en) * | 1996-12-02 | 2007-04-17 | Pálomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | Cooling system for a photo cosmetic device |
| US6162211A (en) * | 1996-12-05 | 2000-12-19 | Thermolase Corporation | Skin enhancement using laser light |
| US5830208A (en) | 1997-01-31 | 1998-11-03 | Laserlite, Llc | Peltier cooled apparatus and methods for dermatological treatment |
| US5810801A (en) | 1997-02-05 | 1998-09-22 | Candela Corporation | Method and apparatus for treating wrinkles in skin using radiation |
| US5885274A (en) * | 1997-06-24 | 1999-03-23 | New Star Lasers, Inc. | Filament lamp for dermatological treatment |
| US6104959A (en) * | 1997-07-31 | 2000-08-15 | Microwave Medical Corp. | Method and apparatus for treating subcutaneous histological features |
| US6273885B1 (en) * | 1997-08-16 | 2001-08-14 | Cooltouch Corporation | Handheld photoepilation device and method |
| US6074382A (en) * | 1997-08-29 | 2000-06-13 | Asah Medico A/S | Apparatus for tissue treatment |
| IL122840A (en) * | 1997-12-31 | 2002-04-21 | Radiancy Inc | Apparatus and methods for removing hair |
| US6080146A (en) * | 1998-02-24 | 2000-06-27 | Altshuler; Gregory | Method and apparatus for hair removal |
| EP1062001B1 (en) * | 1998-03-12 | 2005-07-27 | Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. | System for electromagnetic radiation of the skin |
| US6080147A (en) * | 1998-06-10 | 2000-06-27 | Tobinick; Edward L. | Method of employing a flashlamp for removal of hair, veins and capillaries |
| US6059820A (en) * | 1998-10-16 | 2000-05-09 | Paradigm Medical Corporation | Tissue cooling rod for laser surgery |
| US6096209A (en) * | 1998-11-25 | 2000-08-01 | Aws Industries, L.L.C. | Three media silver recovery apparatus |
| US6663659B2 (en) * | 2000-01-13 | 2003-12-16 | Mcdaniel David H. | Method and apparatus for the photomodulation of living cells |
| US6283956B1 (en) * | 1998-11-30 | 2001-09-04 | David H. McDaniels | Reduction, elimination, or stimulation of hair growth |
| US6936044B2 (en) * | 1998-11-30 | 2005-08-30 | Light Bioscience, Llc | Method and apparatus for the stimulation of hair growth |
| US6235016B1 (en) * | 1999-03-16 | 2001-05-22 | Bob W. Stewart | Method of reducing sebum production by application of pulsed light |
| RU2181571C2 (en) | 1999-03-18 | 2002-04-27 | Закрытое акционерное общество "LC" | Device and method for performing therapeutic and cosmetic phototreatment of biological tissue |
| US6354370B1 (en) * | 1999-12-16 | 2002-03-12 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Air Force | Liquid spray phase-change cooling of laser devices |
| AU784423B2 (en) * | 2000-01-25 | 2006-03-30 | General Hospital Corporation, The | Method and apparatus for medical treatment utilizing long duration electromagnetic radiation |
-
2003
- 2003-03-12 US US10/346,749 patent/US7044959B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-03-12 IL IL16394603A patent/IL163946A0/en unknown
- 2003-03-12 CN CNA038108003A patent/CN1652729A/en active Pending
- 2003-03-12 CA CA002484400A patent/CA2484400A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-03-12 WO PCT/US2003/007714 patent/WO2003077783A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2003-03-12 EP EP03711558A patent/EP1482848A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2003-03-12 JP JP2003575840A patent/JP2005519692A/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JP2005519692A (en) | 2005-07-07 |
| CN1652729A (en) | 2005-08-10 |
| AU2003214151A1 (en) | 2003-09-29 |
| US7044959B2 (en) | 2006-05-16 |
| EP1482848A1 (en) | 2004-12-08 |
| EP1482848A4 (en) | 2007-08-15 |
| WO2003077783A1 (en) | 2003-09-25 |
| US20040034319A1 (en) | 2004-02-19 |
| IL163946A0 (en) | 2005-12-18 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US7044959B2 (en) | Method and apparatus for hair growth management | |
| Wheeland | Laser-assisted hair removal | |
| Lepselter et al. | Biological and clinical aspects in laser hair removal | |
| Liew | Laser hair removal: guidelines for management | |
| Ibrahimi et al. | Laser hair removal | |
| AU784423B2 (en) | Method and apparatus for medical treatment utilizing long duration electromagnetic radiation | |
| Willey et al. | Hair stimulation following laser and intense pulsed light photo‐epilation: Review of 543 cases and ways to manage it | |
| WO2007016629A2 (en) | Multi-beam laser for skin treatment | |
| Wimmershoff et al. | Hair removal using a 5-msec long-pulsed ruby laser | |
| AU2003214151B2 (en) | Method and apparatus for hair growth management | |
| Goel et al. | Methods to overcome poor response and challenges of facial laser hair reduction | |
| Sadick | Laser hair removal | |
| Town | Intense pulsed light (IPL) and laser hair reduction | |
| Farah et al. | Light-Assisted Hair Removal and Hair Growth | |
| Lee et al. | Laser hair removal | |
| Lanigan | Lasers in dermatology | |
| KR20090053746A (en) | Method and device for stimulating hair using high power fractional laser and high pressure injection of warm normal saline or hair promoting agents | |
| Chandrashekar et al. | Key Messages | |
| Saraceni et al. | Laser Hair Removal: Updates | |
| Clement et al. | Clinical review of pulsed ruby laser depilation | |
| Goldberg | Hair Removal | |
| Sadighha et al. | Hair removal | |
| Man et al. | Laser Treatment of Unwanted Hair | |
| Roenigk et al. | Hair Removal by Photoepilation with Lasers and Intense Pulsed Light Sources/Elizabeth I. McBurney | |
| Ibrahimi et al. | Hair removal |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |