While waxing, shaving, and tweezing are some ways of getting rid of unwanted hair, the results last for only a few days, unlike laser or electrolysis hair removal. If you’re tired of unwanted hair sprouting every now and then, it’s time to consider more permanent solutions.
Electrolysis and laser hair removal are popular lasting hair removal methods. The two inhibit hair growth by damaging hair follicles under the skin. But how are they different? Which one is better? Explore the answers here.
Laser hair removal is a permanent method of reducing the growth of unwanted hair. It requires multiple treatments for the effects to work. This procedure entails using a high-heat laser to direct light pulses into the hair follicles. It aims to destroy the hair follicles at the base.
Electrolysis is a permanent method of removing unwanted hair from the body. It also upsets new hair growth. The procedure involves inserting an electrically charged ultra-thin needle into a single hair follicle. This damages the hair roots enough to cause the current hair to fall off and inhibit new hair growth in the future. You will need several procedures for the best results.
Both techniques do away with the need to wax or shave. They also hinder ingrown hairs from developing. While these two hair removal procedures share certain similarities, they also have several differences:
Both procedures reduce hair growth drastically. While both procedures produce long-term results compared to other hair removal methods, electrolysis has the best effect as laser hair removal has the potential to grow back after several years.
Electrolysis works for everyone regardless of hair color or type. Laser treatment works best on light-skinned people with dark hair. Laser hair treatment success relies on a significant distinction between your skin tone and hair color. Depending on your origin, the treatment may leave you with bumps on the skin, ingrown hairs, or dark marks.
While electrolysis has fewer side effects and risks, you’ll need after-care management for both procedures. While swelling and discoloration are common side effects of laser hair removal, you should consult your doctor if the symptoms get worse.
Electrolysis may cause more discomfort as every single hair needs to be treated. Laser treatment only causes minor burning sensations. In both procedures, the amount of discomfort is also directly proportional to the area being treated.
Electrolysis sessions last longer since each hair is treated individually. Laser hair removal only takes a few minutes since the treatment affects large sections at a time. Both treatments may require several follow-up sessions spread over a few weeks or months for the best results. Once hair growth has been fully inhibited, you may need to visit your hair removal specialist for maintenance sessions once or twice a year.
Each treatment session may cost you $200-$400 depending on the area of treatment and your hair removal specialist. Electrolysis is cheaper per session but may be more expensive in the long run due to the number of sessions required to remove the unwanted hair. Laser hair removal is costlier per session but often takes fewer sessions to stop hair growth.
Laser hair removal and electrolysis are categorized as optional cosmetic procedures and are not covered by insurance. You’ll have to come up with an independent payment plan. Note that the overall cost will depend on the number of sessions required to complete treatment.
You should stop doing any type of hair removal methods like waxing or plucking at least a month before the procedure. Waxing and plucking remove the hair follicles. Without the hair follicles, the laser won’t be able to target the right area and the session will be ineffective.
Significant sun exposure should also be avoided, and when you do have to go out into the sun, always wear sunscreen with appropriate protection levels. The technician performing the procedure may have other prep tips for you to follow. They may want to know about any medications you take.
At the very beginning of the session, the technician will trim the area of hair you are getting removed. This prevents your hair from burning. How many sessions you need is determined by the area on your body and how much hair is there. The technician will most likely give you goggles to wear, and they may use a cooling gel on the target area.
Because of the nature of laser hair removal, you should expect some noticeable side effects right afterward. You will likely experience some swelling and redness, but they usually subside within a few hours on the same day. To help with side effects, apply ice packs to the affected area. In between sessions, do your best to avoid direct sun exposure and always wear strong sunscreen when going out. Most importantly, do not perform any type of hair removal method on the treatment site.
Electrolysis is similar to laser hair removal in that you should refrain from waxing and tweezing your hair at least two to three weeks before the session. You can continue to shave but should stop shaving a couple of days before. Do not resume waxing or plucking even after the sessions have begun.
On the day of the appointment, do not apply makeup, creams, lotions, or deodorant. Drink a lot of water at least 48 hours before the appointment. Avoiding caffeine could help with reducing pain sensitivity. Significant exposure to the sun should be avoided as well as no suntanning outdoors or in a tanning bed.
After the appointment, it is important to keep your skin clean. Do not apply makeup or lotions. Do not go into the sun. Do not pick at any scabs or acne. Do not go into public pools or saunas. You might even want to skip working out for a few days.
Hair treatment plans can produce different results for everyone and the success of the treatment depends on various factors. These factors may include hair volume, hair growth cycle, sensitivity levels, and the area of hair that is being treated. If you factor in these variables, multiple procedures may be necessary.
Do your research in advance and consult a professional about the best option for you. If you’re looking for a permanent solution, laser and electrolysis hair removal methods are viable options. Both procedures are safe and electrolysis is FDA-approved for long-term hair removal. Visit an accredited professional to perform the procedure for the best possible results.
And, that’s all for today. If you find this article helpful, make sure to share it with your friends and family. Take care; celebrate life.
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