When it comes to a permanent solution for removing unwanted body hair, laser and electrolysis are the two popular choices among people.
Both the procedures work by destroying the hair follicles and preventing the growth of new hair.
However, if you’re wondering how both of these procedures differ and which one will be the right choice for you, then we will help you out!
In this article, we are going to tell you some advantages as well as disadvantages of laser hair removal and electrolysis so that you can make the right decision for yourself.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a treatment to get rid of undesirable body hair through the use of radiation. In this treatment, laser light destroys the hair follicles as well as inhibits and slows down the growth of new hair.
Laser hair removal is a more effective and long-lasting way of getting rid of body hair as compared to waxing and, shaving, etc.
However, it is not a permanent solution since you would have to follow up after laser treatment, depending on hair type and skin colour.
You at least require 8 laser treatments to get a semi-permanent reduction of hair.
Advantages Of Laser Hair Removal
Now that you know how laser hair treatment works, let us have a look at its advantages as well:
1. It Is A Precise Treatment
Laser hair removal is a very precise treatment and thus, ideal for removing a few hairs from specific areas of the body. These areas include upper lip, eyebrows, and, hairline, etc.
2. It Requires Shorter Sessions
Since the laser can target and remove several hairs in one go, most laser treatments last for a few minutes and can effectively remove hair from larger body areas.
3. It Leads To Lighter Hair Growth
The hair that grows after a laser treatment is relatively thinner as well as lighter in colour than the original hair, making it less noticeable.
4. It Is Less Painful
According to a study, laser hair removal sessions are quicker and less painful as compared to other hair removal methods. Therefore, most people find them easy to endure.
5. It Prevents Ingrown Hair
With laser treatment, you can say goodbye to that stubborn ingrown hair. Since the hair is destroyed during this treatment, the chances of ingrown hair are reduced.
Disadvantages Of Laser Hair Removal
Now that you know the advantages of hair removal treatment, here are a few reasons why it won’t be the best choice for you:
1. It Requires Many Sessions
For removing the body hair on a semi-permanent basis, laser hair removal requires many sessions (around 6-8), depending on the hair growth and thickness.
2. It Can Cause Certain Side Effects
Laser hair treatment can lead to side effects such as skin irritation, inflammation, redness, swelling and, discomfort, etc. But don’t worry, these side effects generally disappear within hours.
3. Not Suitable For Every Skin Colour
Since the laser only targets dark colours, it is only suitable for people who have light skin and dark hair.
4. It Can Cause Photosensitivity
After laser treatment, your skin may become more sensitive to sunlight and get tanned. Hence, you must avoid going out in sunlight for around 4-6 weeks after a laser treatment.
What Is Electrolysis?
Electrolysis is another option for removing body hair. During this treatment, a dermatologist inserts a very thin needle, known as a probe, into the hair follicle of the patient.
This needle damages the follicle by passing an electric current through, thereby preventing any further growth.
Electrolysis treatment can remove hair from most areas of the body, like the face, underarms, hands, legs, and, thighs, etc. However, since each hair is pulled out separately during this treatment, you will require many sessions to see the results.
Advantages Of Electrolysis
Now that you know what is electrolysis treatment, let us also tell you some of its advantages:
1. It Is Long-lasting
As compared to other hair removal methods, electrolysis can give you more long-lasting results. According to the FDA, electrolysis treatment is the only permanent hair removal method, unlike laser treatment.
2. It Is Versatile
Unlike laser, electrolysis treatment works on almost every skin colour and hair type. Moreover, it can effectively remove hair from any area of the body.
3. It Causes Less Side Effects
After an electrolysis treatment, most patients report fewer side effects, like slight discomfort, redness, and inflammation. However, these side effects last for just a few hours.
4. It Is Relatively Cheaper
Unlike laser, electrolysis is a cheaper option for hair removal. Usually, you don’t require any additional sessions once the hair has been removed after an electrolysis treatment.
Disadvantages Of Electrolysis
Some disadvantages of an electrolysis treatment are:
1. It Requires Many Sessions For Larger Areas
One of the biggest disadvantages of electrolysis is that requires many sessions for removing hair from larger areas of the body, such as legs, arms and, back, etc.
2. It Can Lead To Discomfort
After an electrolysis treatment, people might experience slight discomfort, pain, and inflammation. However, these may subside within a few hours.
3. It Can Lead To Scarring
If not done by a certified dermatologist, an electrolysis treatment can lead to scarring in rare cases due to using unsterilized needles.
But Which One Is The Best For Me?
If you still can’t decide whether to go for a laser hair removal treatment or an electrolysis treatment, then you need to consider these 4 factors:
1. Temporary Or Permanent Hair Removal
While electrolysis is a more long-lasting hair removal treatment and doesn’t require any additional appointments, you will have to follow up after a laser hair removal treatment once or twice a year.
2. Budget
Electrolysis treatment is relatively less expensive than laser hair removal treatment but it requires more sessions.
On the other hand, laser hair removal treatment is quite expensive but since it can target large areas of the body, it requires just a few sessions.
3. Pain Tolerance
If you have low pain tolerance, we recommend you to go for a laser hair removal treatment since electrolysis involves pulling each hair from the root and thus, is more painful.
4. Skin & Hair Colour
While electrolysis works on all skin colours, laser hair removal treatment is effective only on people with light skin and dark hair.
FAQs
1. How long does electrolysis treatment last?
The duration of electrolysis treatment depends on several factors, such as the body parts and the volume of hair. However, in most cases, it lasts around 15 minutes to 1 hour.
2. Can I take a bath after laser hair removal?
No, it is not recommended to take a bath after a laser hair removal treatment for at least 2 days. This will reduce your chances of skin irritation and redness.
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Conclusion
While both laser hair removal and electrolysis can be semi-permanent solutions to get rid of unwanted body hair, they both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Therefore, you must take into consideration your budget, skin colour and pain tolerance, etc., before making a decision.
Also, if you have any doubts or queries, feel free to post them down in the comment section. We will be happy to help you!
