Laser Hair Removal VS Electrolysis

If you suffer from unwanted hair in embarrassing places, you are probably trying to decide what hair removal method is the safest and most effective. Laser Hair Removal has become so popular one would assume it has replaced Electrolysis entirely, but depending on the cost or results you’re looking for the best decision for you could be either one. It’s extremely important to recognize the pros and cons of each, and to make an educated decision.

Electrolysis is the removal of hair roots by application of heat through an electric current. The licensed practitioner slides a hair-thin metal probe into each hair follicle. Electricity is driven to the follicle through this probe, and causes damage to the areas that generate hair.

While the process may sound incredibly painful, a certified and well practiced Electrologist should be able to insert the metal probe into each hair follicle fluidly to avoid bleeding and unnecessary pain. While discomfort does depend on pain threshold, area of the body, amount of hair growth, structure of hair and heredity, most would agree the pain of dealing with unwanted hair is much worse than the pain of getting rid of it through Electrolysis.

Reviews of women and men that have received Electrolysis treatments compare the feeling to a pricking or stinging sensation, and you will feel it on each follicle of hair being removed. The average number of treatments is 15-30, with an average price tag of $45 per treatment.

Laser hair removal is the use of laser energy to help aid in long-term hair reduction. The device produces light in a single color or wave length, which emit pulses of high-intensity that are absorbed by the hair. It’s similar to the concept of Electrolysis in that it provides heat directly to the source of the unwanted hair, but on a broader scale killing more roots during each application.

The downside to this is that the practitioner must apply the device to the skin long enough to heat and burn the hair follicle, but not too long that it will burn the skin. There are 3 different laser hair removal treatments currently available, and based on your skin tone or the quality of hair you want removed you should consult with a qualified practitioner on what treatment is best for you.

Those that have received laser hair removal treatments have compared the pain to snapping a rubber band against the skin, with a pretty intense flash of heat. The average number of treatments is 4-6, with an average price tag of $200-$900 per treatment depending on what area of the body you’re having done.

Electrolysis is cheaper, but requires a number of sessions that can become pretty lengthy depending on the amount of hair you want removed. Because each hair is being addressed individually the accuracy and success rate of hair removal via this method is worth the extended time frame.

Laser Hair Removal is pricey, but sessions are quick and effective. Electrolysis versus Laser Hair Removal truly comes down to personal preference, and the amount of money you’re willing to spend.