Permanent Removal Of Body Hair

Removal of unwanted body hair is a common goal for many adults. While some aim to rid themselves of excessive hair due to a medical condition, many people simply desire to conform to social norms or fulfill personal preferences. There are many methods for removing unwanted body hair, but only two methods are viable options for permanent hair removal: electrolysis and laser hair removal.

Procedures

As TeensHealth from Nemours website explains, laser hair removal stops hair growth by aiming a laser through the skin and into the hair follicle. In electrolysis, an electric current is sent through a small needle that is inserted into the hair follicle. The current kills the hair root, preventing future growth.

Treated Areas

According to the American Electrology Association, electrolysis can be used on most skin areas. TeensHealth from Nemours, however, points out that electrolysis is most commonly used for small areas such as the eyebrows or upper lip, since the process is expensive and time-consuming. Laser hair removal allows larger areas of the skin to be treated at one time. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, laser hair removal is more successful at removing darker colored hair and works best in areas with thinner skin, such as the bikini area and armpits.

Effectiveness of Laser Hair Removal

According to the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery, laser hair removal does not usually result in a completely hairless area of skin. Rather, the main goal of laser hair removal is to permanently reduce the amount and thickness of unwanted hair. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, patients usually require at least three treatments to achieve permanent hair reduction. The hair that regrows after treatment is usually lighter and finer than the original hair. Some patients, especially younger people, may require periodic retreatments to maintain hair reduction, according to the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery.

Effectiveness of Electrolysis

According to the University of Michigan Health System, correctly performed electrolysis results in permanent hair removal. As the American Electrology Association explains, the number of treatments required to achieve permanent hair removal varies based on such factors as amount of hair present, hair growth cycles, heredity and use of the other hair removal methods. Electrolysis can be used on all skin and hair types.

Side Effects

Both laser hair removal and electrolysis may have side effects. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, laser hair removal side effects may include pain, swelling, redness and temporary changes in skin pigmentation. In rare cases, scarring or permanent skin pigment changes may occur. Electrolysis side effects include pain, redness, swelling and tenderness, according to the University of Michigan Health System.