Electrolysis or Laser Hair Removal

Which option is right for you?

Even though electrolysis has been in existence since 1875, much longer than laser hair removal (around 1995), laser has become more well known in the world of hair removal. What most people don’t know or have been misinformed about, is that laser is NOT permanent removal. In fact, it is a reduction method that will require maintenance sessions following your initial treatment plan. Electrolysis, on the other hand, is the only FDA-approved method of PERMANENT hair removal. Let me explain in further detail the similarities and differences between the two methods of hair removal.

How each method works:

Electrolysis: A thin, sterile stainless steel probe, about the same diameter as the hair itself, is inserted into the hair follicle. When the probe reaches the dermal papilla (root), the part of the follicle where the hair is nourished by its blood supply, the electrologist will apply a low-level electrical current to destroy the papilla and surrounding tissue. The treated hair will then slide out of the follicle when removed by tweezers. This process is repeated until the area is cleared or until the appointment time has expired.

Laser: The word is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.

Laser uses IPL (intense pulsed light) to target the melanin under the skin’s surface to damage the hair follicle by burning the hair down to the root. With each pulse, many hairs are treated at once due to the size of the treatment window on the laser.

Who can use each method?:

Electrolysis: Electrolysis is extremely versatile; everyone can benefit from it. Because each hair is treated individually, it does not discriminate. All hair colors and types, blonde, grey, red, light brown, dark, white or curly, course, and fine can all be treated effectively. All skin types can be treated as well from light to dark toned. The only areas of the body that cannot be treated by electrolysis are inside the nostrils and the inner ear.

Laser: Laser is best suited for individuals with light skin and dark hair. Because the IPL targets pigment, it will not work on any color hair except dark. As for skin color, if you have dark skin, laser can work but please do your research in choosing who performs the treatment to insure you do not end up with burned skin. Laser can be done on most areas of the face and body except your eye area.

Sessions needed:

Electrolysis: Due to the fact that each hair is treated individually, sometimes it can become a lengthy process. Also, being able to treat hairs in the anagen (growth) phase is important.

Following your electrologist’s recommended treatment plan will aid in completing the process in the most timely manner. Depending on the area being treated, the amount of hair, the coarseness and some other factors, 15-30 treatments may be necessary to achieve permanent hair removal. Each session will last between 15 minutes to usually 60 minutes but could run longer. Again, depending on the client, weekly treatments are common to begin. Frequency of appointments will taper off to once a month or even more time in between until the hair will never return. Each individual will have their own unique treatment process.

Laser: In most cases, anywhere from 5-8 treatments, scheduled 4-8 weeks apart, will be required for laser hair reduction. Each session can last from just a few minutes up to an hour and a half depending on the size of the treatment area. Once your level of hair reduction has been achieved, you’ll want to schedule maintenance visits once or twice a year to continue having your desired results. The hair that does return will be lighter in color and texture.

Cost:

Electrolysis: Pricing varies. Commonly you will find 15 minute = $25, 30 minutes = $45 and an hour session will run approximately $80. Pricing may vary depending on the area in which you reside.

Laser: Pricing varies depending on the size of the area being treated. A small area, such as in between the eyebrows or around the naval will start around $65 a session. The larger the area, the higher the price. Full leg or back treatments can be in the range of $325 a session.

Effectiveness:

Electrolysis: When the treatment plan is followed, electrolysis is permanent. Once the dermal papilla is destroyed on any type of hair, it will never return.

Laser: Clients may experience regrowth over time. This hair will be much lighter in color and less coarse than it once was. One or two maintenance sessions a year should suffice to maintain desired results. Best results will be seen on clients with light skin tone and dark brown or black colored hair.

Is it uncomfortable?:

Electrolysis: With most procedures, slight pain is usually a factor. Each individual has a different tolerance or threshold. Electrolysis is usually described to feel like a brief pinch, sting or heat sensation. This feeling is only felt during the treatment. If the process seems too uncomfortable, taking a pain reliever 30 minutes to an hour prior to your session, may be recommended. There are also topical numbing creams that can be acquired over the counter or some prescribed by your physician.

Laser: As with most procedures, discomfort is to be expected. Laser’s sensation has been explained to feel like a rubber band being snapped against your skin or as a burning sensation with each pulse of the laser. If the burning feeling continues after the treatment, applying an ice pack will usually ease the discomfort.

Aftercare:

Electrolysis: Apply ice to reduce swelling if needed. Keep the area clean with either mild soap and water, witch hazel or an appropriate antiseptic. No tanning, pools, hot tubs, or lakes for 24-48 hours. Also no makeup unless purely mineral for 24 hours. If pore-sized scabbing occurs or pustules present, apply an antibiotic cream if you choose.

Laser: Because of the heat that is produced by the laser and traps under the skin, applying an ice pack to the treated area for 15 minutes every so often throughout the 48-72 hours following treatment will help cool said heat. Exercise that will bring more heat to the treated area should be avoided for 24-48 hours after treatment. Sun exposure to the treatment area should also be avoided for at least 2 weeks following sessions and sunscreen should be used daily.

Side effects:

Electrolysis: Redness and swelling are normal and can last hours or even days after treatment.

Pinpoint scabs or small pustules may occur as well. If they do, let them heal on their own to prevent any scarring. Hypo/hyperpigmentation may take place also but in these rare cases, the area should return to normal within a short healing time.

Laser: Redness, swelling and inflammation are normal and can be reduced by applying an ice pack. Changes in pigmentation (usually light patches on darker skin) can occur as well. In more serious yet rare cases, burning of the skin can be a result and blisters can develop which in turn could lead to scarring.

Summation:

Both electrolysis and laser hair removal can be extremely beneficial and in some cases can complement each other. An example of this would be having a large area treated with laser and finishing off the removal process with electrolysis. Another scenario could be a full beard removal but the laser won’t reduce the grey hair mixed in. Electrolysis is the perfect partner to laser to complete a full removal.

As for deciding one method over the other, consider the time requirements, the cost and your comfort level. Electrolysis is more versatile in treating all hair and skin types. Laser is usually a faster process to complete your initial treatment plan although you will need maintenance treatments, whereas once the hair has been fully treated by means of electrolysis, it will be gone forever.

If you are left questioning which method may be right for you, seek help with your decision by asking your dermatologist.

Congratulations on taking the first step to becoming more confident and building your self-esteem! Freeing yourself of unwanted and troublesome hair is liberating!