Both electrolysis and laser hair removal are effective methods for permanent hair reduction. After your first laser hair removal treatment, you may notice a 10% to 25% reduction in hair. Typically, 6 to 8 sessions are required for optimal results. Electrolysis can also reduce treated hairs by 25%, but it takes longer because it targets each individual hair.
Let's break down the differences, pros and cons, and what you need to know to make an informed choice.
What is Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a method of hair removal that uses a specific wavelength of light to target the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle. Laser hair removal uses light energy to act on multiple hair follicles simultaneously. This technique is usually more effective on people with fair skin tones and dark hair because the contrast helps the laser target the hair more effectively. However, modern lasers have evolved to safely treat people with more skin tones.
In both laser and IPL treatments, light energy penetrates the skin and targets and destroys the hair follicle, thereby inhibiting hair regrowth. While these methods are not permanent, they can significantly slow down hair growth so that the new hair that grows is finer and less abundant.
Related read: IPL hair removal before and after.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
- Suitable for all body locations: Laser hair removal can be used all over the body such as limbs, and bikini area.
- Fewer treatments: Laser hair removal usually requires fewer sessions than other methods, resulting in faster results.
- Less discomfort: Laser treatments tend to be less painful than electrolysis.
Risks of Laser Hair Removal
- Skin discoloration: there is a risk of hyperpigmentation (darkening) or hypopigmentation (brightening) of the skin, especially if the laser is not set correctly.
- Herpes labialis: when performed on the face, herpes labialis may be triggered.
- Effectiveness: Laser hair removal may be less effective on light-colored or fine hair (such as peach fuzz).
What is Electrolysis?
Electrolysis is a hair removal method that involves inserting a very fine needle into each hair follicle and applying an electric current. This electric current destroys the hair root and stops it from producing new hairs. Unlike laser hair removal which targets multiple hair follicles at once, electrolysis treats each hair individually, which is a time-consuming process, especially for larger areas. Also, multiple treatments are usually required to achieve optimal results.
The electrolysis method is very effective but may cause some discomfort, similar to the slight tingling or numbing sensation experienced during surgery. The treatment is usually safe, but potential side effects may include redness, swelling, and, in rare cases, scarring if not performed properly.
There are three main types of electrolysis:
- current electrolysis: uses a chemical reaction to destroy the hair follicle.
- Thermolysis: uses a high-frequency electric current to generate heat and destroy the hair bulb.
- Hybrid method: Combines current and pyrolysis techniques.
Advantages of Electrolysis
- Suitable for all hair colors and skin tones: Electrolysis effectively removes hair of all colors, whether light, dark or gray.
- Permanent Hair Removal: Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved permanent hair removal method. It provides permanent hair removal by destroying hair follicles and preventing hair regrowth.
Risks of Electrolysis
- Infection: may occur if hygiene standards are not met.
- Scarring: especially for people who are prone to keloids.
- Color change: may result in over or under-pigmentation.
- More painful than laser hair removal.
- Very time-consuming and can be more expensive as multiple treatments are required.
- For single hairs: suitable for small areas of hair removal needs.
What Are the Key Differences?
Technology Used
Laser hair removal uses a specific wavelength of light to target melanin in the hair follicle, affecting multiple follicles at once. In contrast, electrolysis involves inserting a fine needle into each hair follicle and applying an electric current to destroy the hair root individually.
Shaving
For optimal treatment results, you should definitely shave before laser hair removal, as this will help the device better focus its energy on the hair follicles rather than the hair growing out of your skin. Generally, shaving before electrolysis is not recommended, as it can make it difficult for the provider to find the hair and treat it.
Effectiveness on Different Hair Types
Laser hair removal is most effective on people with fair skin tones and dark hair because the contrast helps the laser target more effectively. However, it may have difficulty dealing with light-colored or fine hair. On the other hand, electrolysis is effective on all hair colors and skin types, including light, gray, and even white hair.
Treatment Area
Laser hair removal can treat larger areas of the body, such as the legs, back or chest, more quickly because it targets multiple hair follicles at once. Electrolysis is best suited for smaller areas as it is time-consuming because each hair follicle is treated individually.
Number of Sessions Required
Laser hair removal usually requires fewer sessions to significantly reduce hair, but maintenance sessions may be required. Electrolysis usually requires more sessions because it treats each hair individually, especially for larger areas.
Pain and Discomfort
Laser hair removal usually produces a sensation similar to a rubber band popping against the skin, with the level of discomfort varying depending on the area and pain tolerance. Electrolysis may cause a slight tingling or numbing sensation, which some people find more uncomfortable than laser hair removal.
Permanent
Laser hair removal can reduce hair over time, but it may not be permanent. Some hairs may grow back, but usually finer and lighter. Electrolysis is considered the only FDA-approved permanent hair removal method because it completely destroys the hair follicle and prevents the hair from growing back.
Cost
Laser hair removal is usually cheaper than electrolysis, especially for larger areas, but requires multiple treatments. Electrolysis is usually more expensive overall because it requires multiple treatments, especially for larger treatment areas.
Conclusion
Choosing between electrolysis and laser hair removal depends on personal preference, hair type, and skin color. It is important to understand that the goal of both methods is to reduce hair growth and density, not absolute removal.
For those who are interested in laser epilators, stay tuned to SKG laser hair removal. Or share it with a friend who is weighing their hair removal options and remember to protect your skin with sunscreen every day!
