Which One Is the Perfect Choice: Electrolysis or Laser Hair Removal?

Shaving, waxing, and tweezing are nothing but lost battles. You get rid of unwanted hair one day, and a few days later, it’s back again. If you are sick of wasting time like this, you might want to consider permanent hair removal.

Permanent hair removal includes two options laser and electrolysis. But which one is better? Don’t worry; this article will discuss electrolysis versus laser hair removal to help you make the right choice. 

But before you decide which one is better, you should know how each process works.

Laser Hair Removal 

In this method, a pulse of light gets applied to your pores. The light energy travels through the skin to target the melanin in your hair follicle. It increases the temperature, and the hair root gets destroyed. When this happens, the hair follicle is unable to produce new hair. 

Aftercare 

This treatment involves an aftercare treatment routine that includes limiting sun exposure for a few weeks and wearing loose clothing for a couple of days after the treatment to achieve optimum results. Also, it is advised to avoid swimming, hot tubs, and exercise for a few days. 

Side Effects 

Laser hair removal comes with minimum to negligible side effects. These include redness and swelling for a few hours. Most people say the pain is minimal and is similar to snapping a rubber band against the skin. 

Electrolysis

Electrolysis is a process that involves the insertion of an ultra-thin needle into an individual hair follicle. It sends an electric current through the hair follicle, damaging it to hamper future hair growth. Individual hairs are targeted one at a time in this treatment.

Aftercare

The aftercare includes applying an anti-bacterial cream on the treated areas and avoiding physical activity that could cause you to sweat excessively. 

Side Effects

It is common to see redness and swelling for a few hours after the treatment. Patients experience small amounts of pain during the process. Most people describe it as a heat sensation followed by a pinch every time the needle attacks a new follicle. 

Similarities Between Electrolysis and Laser Hair Removal

Both Treatments Can Remove Hair From Any Part of the Body

Both treatments are effective anywhere on the body, from small areas like the underarms, bikini line, nose, ears, etc., to large areas such as the back, arms, and legs. 

Both Require Multiple Sessions

Multiple sessions are needed to get completely rid of unwanted hair. Moreover, laser hair removal and electrolysis only work when the hair follicle is in the growth phase. So repeated sessions are needed to capture every hair follicle in that phase. 

Both Are Safe and Effective

Both methods are safe and FDA-approved for removing excess hair, but they must be performed by a professional.

Differences Between Electrolysis and Laser Hair Removal 

Although both these treatments are similar, they also have key differences. 

Electrolysis Costs Less Money

Electrolysis costs less money per session. On the other hand, laser therapy is expensive.

Electrolysis Works on All Skin Types

Electrolysis has the same effect on any skin type and skin color. On the other hand, laser therapy is most effective on people with light skin and dark hair or vice versa. 

Laser Hair Removal Requires Fewer Sessions

Multiple sessions are required no matter which method you choose. However, electrolysis sessions are longer and more in number.

No Touch-up Treatment Is Required After Electrolysis 

Electrolysis does not require any follow-up treatment, but laser needs a touch-up session.

Electrolysis versus Laser Hair removal - The Verdict 

So which one is the better method? It all depends upon you. You will have to decide which treatment you would want to choose. It’s best to start the process by talking to your dermatologist.

Regardless of which one you choose, make sure the procedure gets performed by a licensed, certified technician.