The choice between Laser Hair Removal vs. Electrolysis depends on several factors. Laser hair removal has been primarily limited to people with light skin tone and dark-hair, since the success of the procedure depends on the ability of the laser to selectively heat the melanin within the hair follicle without damaging the surrounding tissue. Darker skin types can sustain permanent damage in the form of bleaching and the lasers simply aren’t able to effectively heat and thus destroy lighter colored hair. These restrictions are gradually being overcome as newer lasers are being developed that can effectively work with darker skin tones, but only if the hair color is still darker than the skin. The ability of lasers to permanently remove hair has always been called into question and since the procedure is still relatively new there is little longitudinal data to contradict this perception, but its growing popularity suggests that eventually this perception will also fall victim to gradual improvements in the technique.

When compared to laser hair removal, electrolysis seems primitive. With this technique the hair follicle is essentially electrocuted by a small electric current passing from a wire-thin electrode inserted into each hair follicle, thereby creating enough damage to prevent further growth. Since each hair follicle must be treated individually the technique is quite tedious and sessions take longer than with laser treatment.

Laser hair removal is less painful than electrolysis and the overall cost may be less depending on how large an area needs to be treated. The duration of the treatment period may also differ significantly, with Laser hair removal only requiring 5 to 6 sessions over a 6 month period and electrolysis requiring significantly more sessions over a period lasting up to 4 years. Notably, electrolysis is the only technique approved by the FDA for permanent hair removal and can work with any skin or hair color combination. The choice between Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis therefore depends on skin and hair color, the cost and duration of the treatment regimen, the patient’s ability to tolerate pain, and concerns over the permanence of hair removal.

I Have Heard of Laser Hair Removal But What is it?

People automatically think Laser hair removal involves burning the hair off of the skin. This is far from the truth, though there are products out there that accomplish this. Laser hair removal projects a laser into the hair follicle and essentially kills or damages the follicle.

Sounds Like Electrolysis is it Similar?

Kind of but comparing electrolysis to laser is like comparing a typewriter to a laptop. Laser is much more humane and effective.

Does It Work or is This Just a Passing Fad?

Let the popularity speak for itself. It is not as effective on everyone but many people are pleased with the results. Ideally, people with dark hair and light skin have the best results.

Is There Anything Else To Know?

Getting a tan before treatment will significantly reduce the chances of success. This is because the melanin in the skin detracts the laser from the hair follicle.

Hair removal treatments of the past could have actually promoted more hair growth, so if you have had previous waxing or tweezing you can expect to require more laser treatment.

Why Doesn’t This Work The First Time?

The treatment may not fully inhibit the hair follicle from producing hair, so more growth from the same follicles is possible. And hair grows in cycles meaning that only active hair is susceptible to laser hair removal. Meaning that dormant hair will not be effected and will start growing at some point.

Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?

After treatment your skin may be sore and slightly irritated. This is a medical procedure and requires a period of healing. Any pain or discoloration will subside in a matter of hours or days.

Is The Treatment Painful?

Your first visit may be a little painful but nothing like getting a tattoo or any other type of hair removal for that matter. There are options for pain management if it is a problem for you.

Is IPL permanent?

FDA classifies only Electrolysis as permanent, but IPL gives result that can be considered so. At the end of the treatment your remaining hair will be so thin and light they’re virtually gone forever. Some times IPL is called semi-permanent because provides permanent results on 90% of the body.

Are The Businesses Professional?

They should be. A doctor is required to be on the staff and and any technicians should have completed laser hair removal school. If you have doubts as to the professionalism of an establishment ask.

Tell Me About Laser Hair Removal Costs.

The average price of a treatment is $500 and the average number of visits required to get the desired results is four. That being said, smaller treatment such as the upper lip can be less than $100 and be complete in a matter of minutes. Package deals are common and can reduce long term laser hair removal costs.