Permanent removal of body hair may be a goal for those who suffer from excess hair. Genetics play an important role in hair growth, as do your hormone levels and some underlying medical conditions. Seeking medical advice and being referred to a professional is the first step in determining which method of permanent hair removal will work best for you.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is a procedure in which a small needle is inserted into each hair follicle. An electrical current is sent through the needle, destroying the hair follicle and preventing hair growth tissue from regenerating. Because the needle needs to be inserted into each hair follicle the procedure is tedious and time-consuming. Treatment sessions can last 15 to 20 minutes on average, but you'll need many sessions to treat large areas.
Laser Hair Removal
The procedure of the laser hair removal involves a low-energy beam laser being scanned over the skin, destroying the hair follicles with the heat of the laser. Often, a topical numbing cream is applied to the area being treated to lessen the discomfort. According to The Hair Removal Forum, each patient's characteristics such as, skin conditions, thickness of hair and skin color play an important role in the final results. Candidates with dark colored hair have better results then those with light colored hair.
Effectiveness
According to The American Electrology Association, electrolysis is the only proven effective permanent hair removal treatment approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Laser hair removal is considered semi-permanent in removing hair, and may take as many as four to eight treatments to reduce the hair growth. Because the hair grows in cycles, some of the dormant hair that was not previously removed may need to be treated.
Side Effects
With both electrolysis and laser hair removal there are immediate side effects. They include swelling, redness and itching of the treated area. More serious side effects include scabbing, scarring and infection of the treated area. Both treatments have been known to cause discoloration of the skin, depending on your skin tone. Darker patients, and those with a tan may find that their skin has lightened in the area that was treated.
Costs
In 2009, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, concluded that the average cost of each laser hair removal treatment was $405. Cost of laser hair removal is determined by the area being treated, and whether or not you have a dermatologist or plastic surgeon conducting the procedure. A laser hair removal specialist may be less expensive. Electrolysis treatment costs is also determined by the area being treated and where you have the services performed. Electrolysis can cost around $450 per treatment, and if a large area needs to be treated it may cost up to $20,000 for entire permanent removal.
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