Practice Assessment of Users of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) home hair-removal devices in Saudi Arabia

Background: Intense Pulsed light (IPL) hair removal device is a rapidly growing technology with a market extending from clinics to homes where it is unrestrictedly used by the public. IPL safety has been well-established; however, it relies largely on users’ adequacy level in understanding and applying use instructions. Complications were described especially in dark skin types. A few incidents from home use have been reported to Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). To our knowledge, self-reported home experience of IPL use is not described in the literature. Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of IPL home hair-removal female users in Saudi Arabia, their practice, perceptions and complications rate. Methods: a national cross-sectional survey conducted among female residents in Saudi Arabia aged 16 years and above (N=1041). Data was collected using Computer-Assisted Telephone Interview (CATI). Descriptive and regression analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics version 26. Results: the prevalence of IPL home hair-removal female users in Saudi Arabia is 19.5%. Self-reported complications rate was 20.2%. Approximately 10% of the complications were described as severe, yet were not managed by a physician. Observed overall practice in using IPL home devices were scored 60-100% ‘good to excellent’. Following instructions during the removal session was significantly associated with low complications incidence (OR=0.12, 95% CI= 0.01-0.98, P=0.047). Most used brand was Philips 44.3%, and most common purchase venue was online 64%. More than half the users 54.7% expressed having no concerns regarding home IPL devices. Conclusion: There is no concern regarding complications and use adequacy level. Complications rate is significantly associated with proper use. Based on users’ practice scores, use adequacy is considered ‘good to excellent’. Evaluation of users’ knowledge and practice in IPL home hair-removal may be valuable in device classification and regulations.