Permanent hair removal is a more popular medispa and salon offering than ever. According to industry experts, hair removal with lasers or electrolysis is the fourth most common non-invasive cosmetic procedure in the US. When you are deciding whether to add these services to your offerings, it’s important to understand the differences between electrolysis and laser hair removal, and the pros and cons of each.
Table of Contents
- What Is Electrolysis?
- What Is Laser Hair Removal?
- Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal: Which is best?
- Key Takeaways
What Is Electrolysis?
Electrolysis is a safe, permanent hair removal that uses electricity to permanently kill hair follicles to keep them from growing new hair. The electrolysis hair removal procedure is performed by inserting a probe into the hair follicle and sending an electric current through it. This method kills the follicle and prevents new hair growth.
Several treatments are often needed for full hair removal. This is because hair follicles are not all active at the same time; some are dormant while others are actively growing hair. However, electrolysis is the only truly permanent hair removal procedure. After a number of treatments, the hair will be permanently removed from your body.
Before performing electrolysis, it is typical to meet with a client to discuss the procedure and their medical history. Depending on your state, you may be required to have a properly licensed and trained electrologist.
There is very little aftercare involved and there are few electrolysis hair removal side effects. The area treated may feel some discomfort; some may experience tenderness, swelling and/or redness for a bit. However, this typically goes away in a few hours.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal uses a laser to damage hair follicles enough that it inhibits the ability to grow hair.
Laser treatment will permanently diminish hair growth. However, it may not eliminate unwanted hair forever. In most cases, the hair will eventually grow back. Because of this, many clinicians have started referring to laser hair removal as “long term hair removal” instead of a permanent removal method.
Laser hair removal works best on dark hair against light skin. Lower contrast and lighter or finer hair can mean less successful hair removal. However, many people like the procedure because of the ability to treat large areas at once.
There are some laser hair removal risks you should know before deciding between laser hair removal or electrolysis. It is possible for people to have adverse reactions to the lasers that can range from skin discoloration to blisters and scarring. Additionally, some people find that they are more photosensitive after having laser treatment sessions.
Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal: Which is best?
Lasers can treat a larger area at once; electrolysis is slowed down by the fact that each hair follicle is treated one by one.
Despite the effectiveness of electrolysis, laser hair removal has become a far more popular procedure. So, it may be best for most salons and medispas to offer laser and electrolysis hair removal services to those looking to reduce the amount of time they spend shaving, plucking or waxing.
No matter whether you decide to offer, it’s important to make sure that you understand the risks and are properly prepared for any liability. A good insurance policy can help protect your business if anything goes wrong.
Key Takeaways
- Electrolysis uses electric currents to kill hair follicles.
- Laser is a highly popular procedure.
- Both types of hair removal have advantages and risks.
The most important thing is to make sure that, no matter what services you offer, you and your business take the right precautions. This includes the right insurance. At Marine Agency, we offer a range of business insurance coverage, including electrolysis and laser hair removal options. If you are a medispa or salon owner providing hair removal services, talk to us today about coverage for your business. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to provide expert advice and recommend the right coverage for you.
