Microwave hair removal medical data There is no published data on the use of microwaves delivered
in this manner for hair removal. On October 25, 1999, FDA stated:
"The Microwave Medical Corporation, Microwave Delivery
System (Model MMC-300) is designed for the removal of unwanted
body hair except on facial areas. [emphasis FDA's]
This device is not for use on facial areas. Clinical data to
date is not sufficient to demonstrate safety or effectiveness
on facial areas."
Several reports in recent years have raised concerns about the
unknown risks of electromagnetic frequency (EMF) radiation taken
in concentrated doses to the head and near the eyes. Microwaves
have been clinically proven to cause permanent eye damage in some
subjects.
I would urge all practitioners
and patients to avoid this device for any type of hair removal
until there is more data on safety and efficacy.
 = recommended only for in-depth researchers
= may be worth ordering
= strongly recommended
Published medical data
 No published medical data to date
Unpublished reports
Spertell (2000): Promotional material from the manufacturer
containing four unpublished reports, most likely the ones submitted
to FDA for clearance.
Safety issues
Microwave hair removal should not
be performed on the face or near the eyes. There
is medical documentation that exposure to microwave radiation
can cause cataracts and other eye injury. There has been no data
published or presented to FDA to ensure that this method of hair
removal will not cause eye damage. Below are selected medical
articles on microwaves causing eye damage, and programs set up
by the US government to address microwave safety issues.
Please note that this device has been cleared as safe for non-facial
use by FDA, but that side effects due to use on the face long-term
effects constitute an unknown risk.
Roberts 1985: Overview of microwave eye damage.
Lipman 1988: Microwaves and cataracts.
Cutz 1989: Overview of microwave eye damage.
FDA (1996): Discusses programs initiated to address epidemiological
reports suggesting that EMF may play a role in cancer promotion.
FCC (1999): Discusses potential hazardous effects of EMF radiation
in human tissue.
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