Are you considering long term body hair removal, but are unable to choose the best option for your skin? Let us make it easier for you. The two most popular options are laser hair removal and electrolysis.
Both procedures target the hair follicles underneath your skin to stop hair growth permanently or semi-permanently. But the question that often arises is, which one will give you better results and what are the advantages or disadvantages of each.
So read on, for all the necessary information you need before opting for a long-term hair removal procedure.
Highlights:
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that uses highly concentrated laser beams on the hair follicles. [1] Your hair follicles absorb the light into them and destroy the hair as well as stop further hair growth.
In the U.S, laser hair removal is the most commonly used hair removal method. In fact, as per the report of the American Society of Dermatology, the usage of laser hair removal has escalated about 30% since 2013. [2]
This can remove hair from your face, back, arms, underarms, legs, bikini line etc. While laser hair removal does not stop hair growth permanently, it is more effective than usual hair removal methods such as waxing and shaving.
What Is Electrolysis?
Electrolysis is another clinically performed hair removal procedure. It damages the hair follicles in the targeted area of your skin and stops hair growth. In this method, an epilator is used to remove the hair from your skin.
The epilator will pass shortwave radio frequency to your hair follicles, thereby damaging them. It removes the already existing hair from your skin as well as prevents new hair generation.
The U.S Food And Drug Administration approves electrolysis as a permanent method for hair removal. [3]
Laser Hair Removal Vs Electrolysis
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Laser Hair Removal |
Electrolysis |
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How It Works |
Experts use mild radiation through laser beams to damage the hair follicles. It removes the hair and stops hair generation. The procedure targets melanin, which is the pigment responsible for hair colour. |
Electrolysis is also a clinically performed procedure that inserts a device into your hair follicles to pass a mild electric wave to them. The targeted hair starts falling out and never regenerates. It targets the papilla, which is the root cause of hair growth. |
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Effective Areas |
Hair on your face, back, underarms, arms, legs can be removed using the laser hair removal process. |
Electrolysis can be used on most areas of your body such as eyebrows, face, underarms, arms, abdomen, thighs, breasts, and legs. |
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How Long Does It Take |
The duration of laser hair removal depends on your gender and the size and amount of the hair. Usually, a full body hair removal session takes around two to three hours. But any particular area may take less time. |
It takes multiple sessions to complete the entire therapy. Typically, each session takes around 15 minutes to one hour. Most of the clients return every week till the hair is removed permanently. |
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Pros |
1. Laser treatment takes fewer sessions to complete the entire process. 2. The laser targets dark and coarse hair. 3. It is a fast and effective procedure. 4. Has a long-lasting effect. |
1. No harsh chemical is used for electrolysis. 2. It removes your hair permanently. 3. It suits almost every skin and hair type. 4. You can resume your daily chores immediately after the procedure. |
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Cons |
No. FDA does not approve of laser treatment as a permanent hair removal process. It has only received approval as a hair reduction process. |
Yes. The FDA has approved electrolysis. |
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Skin Type |
Does not suit all skin types. Much will also depend on the quality of the laser used. Best results are seen on light skin and dark coarse hair. It isn’t safe for dark coloured or tanned skin. |
Electrolysis is safe for almost all skin types. |
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Hair Type |
Laser hair removal is not for all hair types. It does not work for blonde, grey and red hair. |
It is suitable for all hair types. |
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How Long Does It Last? |
It is a semi-permanent hair removal procedure. Your hair does not return for months. Also, when the hair starts growing back, it is finer and lighter. |
Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal process. |
What Are The Side Effects Of Laser Hair Removal & Electrolysis?
A. Laser Hair Removal
The laser hair removal method makes your skin photosensitive. This means that your skin becomes sensitive to sunlight. The U.S Food And Drugs Administration has stated that there are a few numbing agents present in laser hair removal therapy. It can cause serious life-threatening side effects to some people. Listed below are a few of the minor side effects that can occur after laser hair removal.
- Swelling on your skin
- Irritation
- Changed skin tone
- Redness
Mild side effects tend to fade on their own within a few hours after the completion of the procedure. If any of the side effects last longer than usual, medical attention is highly suggested.
B. Electrolysis
Electrolysis does not have any severe side effects but a few mild side effects may happen. After the treatment is done, your skin may feel inflamed and red. Such mild side effects tend to go away within a day or two. [4] However, in few people, electrolysis can cause scarring, keloid scars and major changes in skin tone.
Laser Hair Removal Vs. Electrolysis - Which One Is Better?
After analysing all the aspects of both laser hair removal and electrolysis, it is safe to say that electrolysis is better.
- Firstly, you want a procedure that will free you from waxing, shaving and other painful methods. Electrolysis will permanently give you relief from unwanted hair on your body.
- Secondly, the electrolysis method neither uses any harsh chemicals nor does it cause any severe side effects.
- The recovery time after electrolysis is also minimal.
- Most importantly, electrolysis has FDA approval as a permanent hair removal procedure.
However, what you want for your skin is completely your decision. It depends on your skin type, amount of hair, budget etc. Also, base your choice on whether you want a long-lasting effect or a permanent one. The detailed comparison given above will help you choose the best long-term hair removal method.
Wrapping Up
Hair removal has always been a worrisome task. Going through the painful process of waxing, shaving and plucking constantly can be exhausting. Many look for a long-term or permanent solution for hair removal. Both laser hair removal and electrolysis are professional procedures to remove unwanted hair from your body.
These two have a fair share of pros and cons as well. With a clear picture of both the procedures, choosing the best option should be easier. Be mindful and analyse every aspect before you decide.
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