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Are you thinking about a permanent solution to say goodbye to unwanted body hair? If yes, laser hair removal and electrolysis are the two effective methods to achieve the result. While one method uses laser light, the other makes use of shortwave radio frequencies to target hair follicles under the skin surface and damage them.
Confused? Which will be better? Keep reading to learn about the benefits and risks associated with these two techniques. We have also compared laser hair removal vs. electrolysis under different heads for better understanding.
Difference Between Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis
Laser Hair Removal
As the name suggests, laser hair removal technique uses laser radiations in mild frequency to destroy the hair follicles (1). The process damages them to a level that they either become dormant or grow very slow.
Even though the result of laser hair removal is not permanent, the effect lasts a lot longer than shaving, waxing or threading. Multiple sessions are necessary to get the desired results.
Benefits
- Suitable for all body parts except near the eye
- Doesn’t need time for recovery
- People can resume daily activities after the procedure
- Hair becomes fine, light and grow very slow
- Suitable for all skin types
Electrolysis
In electrolysis, the dermatologist uses an epilator device to put shortwave radio frequencies in the hair follicles of targeted areas. As a result, the hair follicles damage, which prevents their growth and allows the existing hair to fall off (2).
Like laser hair removal, electrolysis also requires multiple sessions to achieve the desired results. Also, it gives permanent results.
Benefits
Most of the benefits of electrolysis are the same as laser hair removal. However, it’s suitability for eyebrow hair removal helps it secure more points. At the same time, while laser hair removal gives long-term results, electrolysis promises permanent solution of hair removal.
Below is the table differentiating laser hair removal and electrolysis under different heads for better understanding-
| Feature | Laser Hair Removal | Electrolysis |
| Method | Uses concentrated beams of light to target hair follicles | Involves inserting a fine probe into each hair follicle to deliver an electric current |
| Targeted Areas | Suitable for larger areas like legs, back, and arms | Effective for smaller areas such as eyebrows and face |
| Hair Color | Most effective on dark hair | Effective on all hair colors |
| Skin Types | Generally safe for all skin types, but may not be suitable for very dark skin tones | Suitable for all skin types |
| Pain Level | Generally well-tolerated, but may cause discomfort or stinging sensation | Can be more uncomfortable as each hair follicle is treated individually |
| Number of Sessions | Typically requires multiple sessions for permanent hair reduction | Requires multiple sessions for permanent hair removal |
| Treatment Time | Treatment sessions are relatively quick | Treatment sessions can be longer depending on the area being treated |
| Cost | Cost per session can vary depending on the area being treated and the number of sessions needed | Cost per session may be comparable to laser hair removal, but total cost can be higher due to the number of sessions required |
| Side Effects | Potential side effects include temporary redness, swelling, and skin irritation | Potential side effects include redness, swelling, scabbing, and temporary changes in skin pigmentation |
| Long-Term Results | Can lead to long-term hair reduction | Can lead to permanent hair removal |
Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis
Laser hair removal is a safe procedure; however, people with sensitive skin may experience certain side effects (3) such as-
- Swelling and inflammation
- Skin irritation and redness
- Blisters and changes in pigment
Often, these symptoms resolve soon after the procedure, but if you are feeling discomfort due to any of them, visiting a dermatologist is recommended.
In the case of electrolysis, people may experience slight redness and skin irritation that resolve on their own. If you feel pain and swelling, check it with your dermatologist.
Since both procedures require expertise and experience, it is advised to get them from a reliable and board-certified dermatologist. It will ensure that in laser hair removal, laser light is of appropriate frequency, and in electrolysis, sterile needles will be used.
Aftercare for Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis
For aftercare you can use pain relivers to manage pain and ice compress to manage swelling and inflammation. The dermatologist may give you over-the-counter pain relief medications or in rare cases, steroids to combat pain and other symptoms.
Once you receive the treatment, it is essential to wear sunscreen when you step outside to prevent skin damage from sunburn. It can disrupt the skin pigment and change the skin’s texture.
Since the desired result is not obtained in one session, you may need follow-up appointments to get the best outcome.
Laser Hair Removal vs. Electrolysis- Which is best?
When it comes to getting rid of unwanted body hair for a long time, both laser hair removal and electrolysis are effective. While laser hair removal results in slow hair growth, electrolysis ensures permeant removal.
However, both these procedures come with their own set of pros and cons. So, whether you want laser hair removal or electrolysis depends on your choice. Also, both of them are multiple sessions procedure so you have to visit the dermatologist regularly to get the desired result.
Conclusion
Now that we have compared laser hair removal vs. electrolysis under different heads, it must be easy for you to understand which procedure will be beneficial. While laser hair removal is a pretty popular method, electrolysis is steadily gaining popularity.
Make sure you check all the side effects associated with laser hair removal and electrolysis to decide between them. Visit your dermatologist for better consultation.
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