Laser Hair Removal Versus Electrolysis

By Danielle Moran

With more and more people seeking alternatives to shaving, waxing and tweezing, laser hair removal and electrolysis are quickly becoming the treatments of choice. But how does one choose between the two?

In the past, individuals with dark skin were advised against laser treatment all together leaving them with electrolysis as the only alternative, but with technological advances in the science of laser hair removal, now even those with the darkest of skin can receive laser hair removal treatments. While there are benefits to both, by examining the pros and cons of the two hair removal methods, you can better evaluate which is the best option for you.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis consists of an aesthetician inserting a sterile needle into every hair follicle and killing the follicle with a low-level electrical current. This can be extremely time-consuming since the procedure has to be performed one hair at a time. Patients having hair removed from larger body parts such as the chest, legs or back can require over 12 hours of work, and many patients report having to endure 15-30 return visits. Since treatments are usually performed in one hour intervals, this can make for a very costly hair removal experience.

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal involves the use of lasers that are able to pass through the skin without affecting it, to target the pigment in the hair follicle. The energy from the laser is converted to heat which damages the follicle. Laser treatments are brief since the laser is able to target hundreds of hairs at a time. Treatments that can take 2-12 hours if performed using electrolysis can take minutes with laser hair removal, making laser hair removal the method of choice for those who don't have time to spare, or simply don't like to sit still for long periods. This also makes it the more economical option of the 2 since hair removal can be accomplished in as little as 4-5 visits.

While electrolysis is a method that can be used on virtually everyone, in the past, people with either dark skin or light hair, had been advised against the use of laser hair removal since lasers weren't as effective considering these individual's pigmentation. In recent years however, better and better lasers have been developed that are able to more accurately target the hair of even the darkest skinned people.

Most patients describe electrolysis as quite painful, with the pain being described as a sharp pricking, burning or throbbing sensation. Laser hair removal, while not completely pain free, is much less painful. Patients usually describe a tingling or stinging sensation. Both methods, if performed by experienced professionals, will result in zero side-effects and the permanent removal of unwanted hair.

The choice of hair removal methods is ultimately up to the individual. Some of the important points to consider when deciding what method is right for you, are cost considerations, time constraints, and your tolerance for pain. But above all, your most important consideration should always be finding a professional, who is experienced in their field and whom you can trust to remove your unwanted hair safely.

Danielle Moran is part owner of Sutera Medical Spa in Miami, Florida. Please visit our website for more information on various cosmetic treatments at http://www.suteraskin.com/miami-medical-spa/laser-hair-removal.htm and while you are there, don't forget to sign-up for our free newsletter that provides tips on skin care and overall beauty.