Laser hair removal is an FDA-cleared procedure that uses a beam of light to remove unwanted hair. The light is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair, which converts it to heat that destroys the follicle.
Unlike electrolysis, laser hair removal doesn’t require puncturing the skin. Instead, the laser emits pulses of concentrated light energy that target multiple hair follicles at once.
Cost
If you’re struggling with unsightly body hair, there are two options to consider. Laser Hair Removal vs Electrolysis are both safe, effective ways to get rid of unwanted hair for good.
With lasers, a high-powered pulse of light targets hair follicles, causing the strands to stop growing. In fact, you’ll typically see about a 75 percent reduction in hair growth after six treatment sessions.
Unlike electrolysis, which involves the use of a needle to send an electric current to a follicle, lasers don’t require any needles and aren’t considered invasive.
Both methods have their pros and cons, so it’s best to speak with your doctor to find the right solution for your needs. But one thing is certain: which method you choose will depend on your treatment goals, budget, and pain tolerance.
Pain
Laser hair removal is a less painful process than electrolysis, because it targets several hair follicles at once. However, it also takes more sessions than electrolysis to achieve permanent results.
In addition, the pain level can vary depending on the patient’s tolerance to discomfort and the area being treated. Experts recommend applying ice packs following each treatment to reduce the amount of discomfort you may feel.
With electrolysis, a practitioner inserts a fine probe into each hair follicle and sends an electric current through it to destroy the hair. This causes a slight stinging or pricking sensation that may be uncomfortable, but not unpleasant.
Laser hair removal is much more comfortable than electrolysis and can be administered by trained professionals using prescription strength numbing creams. You might experience some irritation or redness as a result of the treatment, but these symptoms should subside after a few hours.
Speed
Laser hair removal is a fast, comfortable, and effective way to remove unwanted hair. It’s 60 times faster than electrolysis and requires fewer sessions to produce optimal results.
In fact, many people achieve permanent results after just three to eight treatments, and can continue to see improvements from treatment over time!
The speed of the procedure is especially important if you’re trying to keep up with your busy schedule. It can be done over your lunch hour, and there’s no downtime or pain.
During the process, the pulses of light that are generated by the laser target pigment in the hair follicles, converting it to heat. This then causes the follicles to be destroyed.
The lasers that are used for laser hair removal have different wavelengths to match the skin and hair color of the patient. This ensures that the treatment is safe and effective for all skin tones and hair types.
Safety
Laser hair removal is a safe and effective way to permanently reduce the appearance of unwanted body hair. It can be used to remove hair from the face, underarms, legs, and arms.
It is also safe for all skin types. However, it is less effective on tanned skin.
Electrolysis is a clinically performed procedure that inserts a device into the follicles of the hair to pass a mild electric current, which destroys the follicle and prevents future growth.
In some cases, electrolysis can result in irritation and inflammation of the follicle. This can lead to infection, scarring or other complications if the treatment is not performed correctly.
On the other hand, laser hair removal is a more efficient treatment that results in less hair regrowth after each session. Clients usually notice 10-20% less hair regrowth after each treatment.
