top of page
Writer's pictureAdvanced Laser Clinic

Laser Hair Removal or Electrolysis. Which Treatment Is for You?

Updated: Jun 23, 2023


Laser Hair Removal Vs. Electrolysis


Waxing, tweezing, shaving - these are traditional hair removal methods that, in truth, most people find frustrating. Imagine going through the trouble of doing one or all of these only to find that you’ll have to do it again after just a few days. It’s a never-ending cycle.


It is no wonder that more and more people are now considering permanent hair removal solutions. The thought of having permanent hair removal performed and then not having to worry about unwanted hair growth again can be so exciting.


For permanent hair removal, you have two options to choose from. And in this post, we are going to dive deeper into those two techniques so you can make the right decision as to which one suits your needs better:



Laser Hair Removal Vs. Electrolysis - Which One Is for You?


Laser hair removal and electrolysis are your two options if you want to get rid of unwanted hair on your body permanently. But what is the difference between these two, and more importantly, which one is the better option for you?



Laser Hair Removal: How It Works


Here’s how laser hair removal works. A trained technician will apply a light pulse into your pores. The light energy then travels through the skin and targets the melanin in the hair follicle. It increases the temperature of the follicle, thus destroying the hair’s root. Once the root of the hair is destroyed, the follicle won’t produce hair anymore.



Aftercare for Laser Hair Removal


You need to limit or even avoid sun exposure for a few weeks and only wear loose clothing for a couple of days after your treatment. You should also avoid saunas, hot tubs, swimming pools, and physical exercises for two days.



Laser Hair Removal Side Effects


There are limited side effects of laser hair removal, including some redness and swelling of the area, but those often subside in a few hours. Many people say the pain is minimal, and the laser itself feels nothing more than a rubber band snapping against your skin.



Electrolysis: How It Works


An electrolysis treatment involves the use of an ultra-thin needle that is inserted into individual hair follicles This ultra-thin needle, also called a probe, then sends an electric current through the follicle to damage it and prevent it from growing hair in the future.



Aftercare for Electrolysis


After the treatment, you will be provided an antibacterial cream that you will apply to the parts of your body that received electrolysis treatment. You should avoid any activity that may lead to excessive sweating. You should also avoid touching, or worse, scratching the treated area for several days.



Electrolysis Side Effects


You might notice small scabs on your skin’s surface after the treatment, but you should just allow them to fall off naturally. Redness and swelling are also normal and typically last a few hours after the electrolysis treatment. Small amounts of pain should be expected during the treatment. Patients describe it as heat and pinch sensation every time the needle gets to a new follicle.



Similarities and Differences Between the Two Treatments


Both are considered safe permanent hair removal methods, and both are effective in eliminating the need to shave, tweeze, or wax unwanted hair. They have to be performed by a professional to ensure effectiveness. They also require multiple sessions to ensure that every single hair is captured in the anagen or growth phase. That said, laser hair removal requires fewer sessions - typically four to eight. On the other hand, Electrolysis can take up to 30 sessions, especially in parts where the hair growth is coarse. Additionally, laser removal lasts for just a few minutes each session, while electrolysis lasts longer and is more time-consuming.



Conclusion


When it comes to permanent hair removal, both laser hair removal and electrolysis offer the benefits of not having to worry about unwanted hair growth. If you want fewer and shorter treatment sessions, though, laser hair removal is your best option.


Advanced Laser Clinic offers the 1064nm Nd: YAG FRAC3® method, which is optimized to give you high-intensity laser pulses in much shorter times of less than 2ms. This means most hair types are destroyed without damaging the epidermis. It’s safe to use no matter what skin type you have. If you’re looking for the best laser hair removal treatment in Point Cook, this is it! Contact us today to set an appointment!

Comments


bottom of page