Axillary hair removal with 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser increases sweat production

Summary Background. Laser‐assisted hair removal has become a popular treatment for eradication of body hair. Many studies have been published concerning the safety and efficacy of several laser systems. Adverse events are hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, erythema, oedema, scarring, pain and blistering. Changes in sweating have not previously been reported. Aim. To investigate the effects on axillary sweating of hair removal by a 1064‐nm neodymium:yttrium–aluminium–garnet (Nd:YAG) laser. Methods. The sweating function of both axillae was evaluated objectively by the iodine starch test for planimetry measurement and subjectively using a visual analogue scale (VAS) before the treatment, and 1 month and 1 year after the last session. Results. The difference in hyperhidrotic activity before and after treatment was significant (P