SpectraGenics, a Pleasanton, Calif.-based maker of aesthetic lasers, today announced over-the-counter (OTC) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its patented handheld laser hair-removal device for home use. The Tria will be the first such laser on the US market, the company said, and features a diode laser designed for consumer use. "The FDA clearance is the culmination of many years of research, clinical testing and innovative product design efforts," said Robert Grove, PhD, CEO, SpectraGenics. "Our engineers are the same scientists who developed the first and gold-standard professional diode laser hair-removal system over 10 years ago which is still used by physicians nationwide. We've invested significant resources to harness that same light-based technology to deliver a safe, effective way for consumers to treat unwanted hair in the privacy of their homes." SpectraGenics has been selling a version of the Tria, called i-Epi, in Japan since 2005; Tria will be available in the US this spring.