Bioactive Proteolytic Enzymes Chymotrypsin and Papain as Adjuvants to Laser Hair Removal: Reducing the Risk of Paradoxical Hypertrichosis in Women with Facial Hirsutism

This study examined the use of bioactive proteolytic enzymes, chymotrypsin and papain, as adjuvants to Alexandrite laser hair removal to reduce paradoxical hypertrichosis in 59 Greek women with facial hirsutism. Participants were divided into two groups: one receiving laser treatment with enzyme iontophoresis and the other receiving laser treatment alone. After 10 sessions, the combined treatment group showed a significant reduction in laser pulse requirements compared to the laser-only group, indicating effective hair reduction without inducing paradoxical hypertrichosis. The study suggests that enzyme-assisted hair removal may enhance laser treatment efficiency, though further research with larger studies and extended follow-up is needed.