Electrolysis and laser hair removal are two methods of reducing hair growth for a long period of time--and sometimes even permanently. However, these two techniques have distinctly different applications. Before you decide between electrolysis and laser hair removal, it's best to assess which hair removal method will yield the most long-term success.
At a Glance
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration describes electrolysis as a method of hair removal that involves slipping a slender probe, or needle, through the skin next to the hair shaft. A minute current of electricity is then delivered to disable the follicle. Electrolysis is time-consuming, as it involves addressing one hair at a time. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, addresses larger clusters of hair follicles at a time. A laser beam targets the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicles to put them in the resting stage of growth.
Electrolysis
The American Electrology Association states that electrolysis is the only form of hair removal recognized by the FDA as being permanent. The benefits of electrolysis are that it can be used on those with all types of skin and hair types and colors with successful results. Electrolysis is a service performed by a skilled electrologist and is charged by the hour of services rendered. The AEA indicates that 32 U.S. states, including the District of Columbia, require electrologists to be licensed. Skilled electrologists in licensed states receive 300 to 1,500 hours of training.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal services may be performed by a medical professional, such as a dermatologist, but are also offered a many day spas and salons. The medical professionals who manage the Hair Removal Journal website and the Mayo Clinic advise that laser hair removal treatments be performed by a practitioner with a medical background to achieve the best results. Laser hair removal is charged by the session rather than the hour, with between four and seven sessions generally required to notice desired results, states the Hair Removal Journal. Maintenance sessions are also required, usually around once or twice a year, to remove additional hair regrowth. The Mayo Clinic indicates that laser hair removal can result in a 20 to 90 percent reduction in hair density, depending on the individual's response to treatment.
Which Works Best?
Electrolysis is a timely process. The AEA indicates that treatment sessions can last only 15 minutes or an hour, depending on the body part treated. Even small areas of the skin, such as the bikini line, may require between 8 to 16 hours of electrolysis, notes KidsHealth.Org. Laser hair removal is quicker and more efficient in removing hair growth in large areas of the body, such as the legs or back. However, the Mayo Clinic indicates that results vary depending on the consumer's skin type and hair color. Laser hair removal is more likely to yield excellent results in people with fair skin and dark body hair. The Mayo Clinic notes that it won't remove hair that is blond, light brown, red or gray/white. The Hair Removal Journal indicates that extreme caution must be taken when using laser hair removal on those with tanned or dark skin tones to avoid blistering and changes in pigment.
Before You Decide
When weighing electrolysis and laser hair removal, of tantamount importance in addition to efficacy of treatment and time is the total cost involved. According to the AEA, electrolysis costs between $25 and $40 per hour, depending on the area where services are sought. The Hair Removal Journal indicates that a single laser hair removal session cost between $142 and $588 as of January 2010, again depending on geographic location.
Member Comments