Comparative study between the effect of 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical liquorice extract versus alexandrite laser alone for treatment of idiopathic hirsutism

Background Idiopathic hirsutism, characterized by excessive male-pattern hair growth in women with normal androgen levels, affects up to 10% of females and carries significant psychosocial impacts. While alexandrite laser therapy remains a gold standard for hair reduction, adjunctive treatments are sought to enhance outcomes. Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), known for its antiandrogenic properties, offers a promising alternative. Objective To compare the clinical efficacy and safety of combining topical liquorice extract with 755 nm alexandrite laser versus laser therapy alone in treating idiopathic hirsutism. Patients and methods In this comparative study, thirty women aged 18–45 years with idiopathic facial hirsutism were randomized into two groups: group A received laser treatment only, while group B received laser combined with topical liquorice extract. Treatments were conducted every four weeks for up to eight sessions. Outcomes were assessed by dermoscopic hair count, hair thickness measurements, and rates of hair regrowth, alongside photographic documentation and statistical analysis. Results Both groups showed significant improvement; however, group B demonstrated superior outcomes. A significantly higher proportion of patients in group B (86.7%) achieved greater than or equal to 85% improvement compared with group A (60%) (P=0.0303). Group B also showed significantly greater reductions in hair thickness and count (P=0.033 and P=0.0218, respectively) and slower hair regrowth (P=0.0013). No significant adverse events were reported. Conclusion Topical liquorice extract enhances the efficacy of alexandrite laser therapy in idiopathic hirsutism without added risk, offering a safe and effective adjunctive treatment strategy.