Laser Hair Removal in Pilonidal Cyst Care
Hair plays a critical role in the development and recurrence of pilonidal disease. For years, hair control has been recommended as part of conservative pilonidal care, but the method of hair removal has often been debated. At the Pilonidal Treatment Center of New Jersey (PTCNJ), our approach continues to evolve as new evidence emerges and recent data has significantly strengthened the case for laser hair removal.
A Shift in Perspective
Based both on growing clinical experience and emerging research, we now consider laser hair removal, or laser epilation, to which it is medically referred, to be an effective tool in a comprehensive pilonidal management program. In particular, it appears to reduce the risk of acute infectious flare-ups in sacrococcygeal (tailbone-area) pilonidal disease. As a result, we are strong advocates for its use in appropriately selected patients.
At PTCNJ, we anecdotally began recording impressive results in patients who underwent laser epilation as part of their care. These observations prompted us to further investigate the scientific evidence supporting its use.
What Does the Research Show?
To better understand the role of laser epilation, we consulted with Dr. Nelson Rosen, a pediatric colorectal surgeon at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, where laser epilation is routinely used in their pediatric pilonidal disease program. Dr. Rosen shared a well-designed randomized controlled trial demonstrating lower pilonidal recurrence rates at one year in patients treated with laser epilation compared to those receiving standard conservative management alone.
This data is summarized in the following peer-reviewed publication:
Deans KJ, Minneci PC. Management of Pilonidal Disease: A Review.
JAMA Surgery. 2023;158(8):875–883. doi:10.1001/jamasurg.2023.0373
This high-quality evidence reinforces what we are already clinically seeing : laser epilation can meaningfully improve outcomes when used as part of a structured pilonidal care plan.
How PTCNJ Uses Laser Epilation
In response to this evidence, PTCNJ has officially incorporated laser epilation into our Minimally Invasive Pilonidal Treatment (MIPiT) protocol. While laser epilation alone is not considered a definitive treatment for pilonidal disease, it serves as an important adjunct therapy by helping to reduce hair-related inflammation, infection, and recurrence.
Although long-term data on laser epilation as a stand-alone maintenance strategy is still limited, our clinical experience suggests it can be especially beneficial for:
• Patients seeking a minimally invasive approach
• Patients with sacrococcygeal pilonidal disease prone to flare-ups
• Patients who have undergone cleft-lift or minimally invasive procedures and want to reduce recurrence risk
State-of-the-Art Technology at PTCNJ
To support this expanded treatment option, the Pilonidal Treatment Center of New Jersey has invested in a new, state of the art laser epilation system, allowing us to safely and effectively offer this modality to appropriate patients as part of their individualized care plan.
Our Philosophy
At PTCNJ, our mission is to provide evidence-based, patient-focused care while continually refining our approach as new data becomes available. Laser epilation represents another step forward in reducing the burden of pilonidal disease—minimizing flare-ups, lowering recurrence risk, and improving quality of life for our patients.
If you believe laser epilation may be right for you, our team is happy to discuss whether it should be incorporated into your personalized pilonidal treatment plan.
