Laser Hair Removal or Electrolysis: What Is The Difference?

  • By
    Laserlicious
  • In
    Laser Hair Removal,
  • Posted
    August 10, 2021

Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis are arguably the most advanced hair removal options available today. Laser technology has revolutionized how we approach this age-old problem of unwanted fuzz on our skin, and electrolysis is one of its oldest competitors in the field. But what exactly are Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis, and how should you decide which one is best for your needs?

Electrolysis: Eyelashes and Cosmetic Surgery for Over a Century

In 1869, Dr. Charles Michel practicing ophthalmology in St. Louis used a battery-powered needle epilator to treat trichiasis (ingrown eyelashes). This method is called electrolysis because it employs an electric current which creates a chemical reaction in the process that damages the hair follicles at the root.
Electrolysis is a good option for those who want to remove white hair or facial hair and not just dark body hair. Electrolysis is a popular option when looking into permanent hair removal options and one that many people have used for years without complaint.

Electrolysis has been in use for over a century and is approved by the FDA to be a permanent hair removal procedure.

The Invention of Lasers in the 1960s

Since the invention of lasers during the 1960s, laser hair removal has been in use for a few decades. It is well known as an effective and easy way to remove unwanted body hairs with little pain or downtime.

Laser hair removal technology uses light to penetrate the skin’s surface, targeting dark hairs on light-colored skin. Laser beams work by shooting pulses at a high frequency to disrupt follicular bulb production.

The FDA has approved the method for reducing hair regrowth. But, it is mostly used for complete hair removal.

Here is the breakdown:

Electrolysis is best for those who are looking to rid unwanted hair from small areas. Unlike laser treatments, electrolysis removes individual hairs in one pass, Laser treatments can work on any part of the body quicker.

Both procedures are great! With both, multiple sessions are necessary, regardless of which method you choose. However, electrolysis sessions are longer, and you’ll need to have more of them.

Laser hair removal treatments are usually quick as the laser affects multiple hairs at one time.

With Electrolysis every hair must be targeted one at a time. Treatments are booked every week or two, making it a much more time-consuming process.

Laser hair removal usually requires six to eight sessions. The exact number depends on your skin type, growth cycle, hair color, hormones and the type of area to be treated.
Electrolysis requires many more sessions than laser hair removal depending on the amount of hair to be treated and the size of the area.

Laser removal for unwanted hair has become more accessible over recent years as technology advances. Laser treatments are safer than ever before (and cheaper too).

Cost-Effective Permanent Results

Electrolysis has been around longer, and many people are familiar with the process. Electrolysis may be less expensive than Laser Hair Removal with each visit but may take longer overall than laser therapy to do away with all hair in an area.

The rate you pay will depend on the size of your area being treated and how many follow-ups are required. Most clinics charge hourly rates.

Laser Hair removal has come a long way and with the new advanced technologies, treatments are quicker, safer and much more comfortable than ever before.

If you’re considering which treatment to use on your skin, talk with an Aesthetician about what might work best based on your needs. Both procedures have their pros and cons depending on what type of person you may be – if there’s one thing to get across here though is that both methods will result in smoother skin without any ingrown hairs or red bumps!

Regardless of which procedure you prefer, be sure to do your research and find the right laser hair removal & medspa clinic with certified experienced technicians and the latest FDA and Health Canada approved technologies.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.