Electrolysis Vs. Laser Hair Removal: Which is Better?

Though there are multiple methods of hair removal such as shaving, waxing, and tweezing, among others, most people are searching for long-term hair removal methods. They want a method that will minimize the need for repeat hair removal procedures.
Laser hair removal and electrolysis are the most popular hair removal methods whose results near permanent. The procedure involves the damage of hair follicles beneath the skin surface and when this happens, the hair will take long before growing back again.
Here is a comparison between laser hair removal and electrolysis to help you settle on the best hair removal method for your unwanted hair:
Overview
Electrolysis involves the use of electric currents to damage the hair follicles below the skin’s surface. The technician carrying out the process will use ultra-thin needles which he’ll direct towards the hair follicles, and then direct electric currents towards the targeted hair follicles. This hair removal method is mostly carried out by dermatologists and will result in permanent hair removal.
Laser hair removal involves the use of laser to destroy the hair follicles and from this, you’ll be able to stay for longer without unwanted hair. Though people consider this as a permanent hair removal method, it does not permanently get rid of the hair. After some time, some hair will grow back thinner and lighter and you’ll need to go back to the spa for a touch-up. There are some people, however, that will be able to completely get rid of their unwanted body hair through the laser process.
Pros and Cons
Both laser hair removal and electrolysis have numerous advantages which make people prefer one over the other.
Laser Hair Removal Pros

• When having laser hair removal, the laser beams take milliseconds and this makes it possible to remove multiple hairs at once. This makes the process quite fast and if the area is not extensive, you’ll be out of the spa in a few minutes.
• The hair that grows back after laser hair removal is lighter and sparser which makes it almost impossible to notice. With this, the repeat process will be easier and take less time compared to previous sessions.
• Laser hair removal is more efficient and within 6 sessions, you’ll notice a huge improvement
• You can have laser hair removal in most professional spas
• Little or no side effects after a laser hair removal process.
• Laser hair removal is less painful compared to electrolysis and you’ll be quite comfortable during the process. You can apply a numbing cream on your skin if you have a low tolerance to pain

Cons

• Laser hair removal may not work too well depending on your skin and hair color
• The process is more expensive 
• You’ll need more than one session to get the desired results

Electrolysis Pros

• Electrolysis has been approved by the FDA as a permanent hair removal method
• You can have electrolysis hair removal regardless of your hair or skin color
• Once you go through electrolysis, you’ll not need any form of maintenance after the process
• The technician carrying out the process will not use any harsh chemicals which makes the process relatively safe
• There is no downtime after electrolysis and this makes it possible to get back to your normal schedule after the process.

Cons

• You will require several sessions before you begin to notice changes especially for extensive parts of your body such as the legs and the back region
• There is a lot of pain and discomfort associated with electrolysis hair removal and to make the process more bearable, you’ll need some pain tablets or numbing cream.
• If the needles being used during the process are not sterilized, there is a likelihood of suffering from infections after the process. This is why it is important to ensure that the aesthetician observes a high standard of hygiene during the process

Cost
Laser hair removal is more expensive compared to electrolysis. For instance, if the area being treated is small, you may end up paying $45 per session for electrolysis. However, it is important to remember that you will need more sessions for electrolysis which can make the process more or equally expensive.
When having laser hair removal, you may pay between $200 and $400 per sessions which is on the higher side. This price may be higher or lower depending on your location and your choice of laser spa.
In most cases, laser hair removal and electrolysis are not covered by insurance which means you’ll cater for the costs.
Aftercare
After a laser hair removal process, you’ll need to stay off the sun for the first 24 hours to allow the skin to heal. You may also need to apply some ice packs on your skin to ease the discomfort resulting from the process. Once you complete the initial sessions, you’ll still require periodic appointments at the spa to get rid of the hair that will grow back after the process.
After electrolysis, your skin will suffer from irritations and appear reddish. This will disappear after a few hours but if it persists, you can apply some ice cubes or an over-the-counter ointment on the affected skin.
Which is Better?
Both laser hair removal and electrolysis are effective in getting rid of unwanted body hair. You’ll be able to stay for longer durations without unwanted hair and you’ll suffer from minimal or no side effects after the process.
If you are looking for the cheaper option between the two, you’ll definitely settle for electrolysis as it is more affordable. However, do not forget that you’ll need more sessions to get the results that you want which could make the process expensive.
Laser hair removal is available in most professional hair removal spas and this makes it easier to book your appointment. The process is also fast and more effective which makes it more convenient if you need guaranteed results.
If you are still unsure about the best hair removal method for you, consult your aesthetician. He will offer the best advice based on the nature of your hair and skin, your budget, and your anticipated results. It is also important to choose the spa for your hair removal wisely as this will also determine the outcome of the hair removal process. Choose a spa that has professional staff, equipped with the latest technology and one that has a history of providing excellent services to its clients.
 
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