Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal

What is Electrolysis?

Electrolysis hair removal is when an electric current that is applied with a very fine needle-shaped electrode, or metal probe into each hair follicle to destroy the root. It is particularly effective for those with grey or white blonde hair that find LHR does not work for them. Electrolysis, unlike LHR, is recognised by the FDA as a permanent hair removal solution, however, your treatment plan will consist of several sessions before the hair will stop growing back. Electrolysis has a great track record as it destroys the root itself and it is effective on all skin and hair types as it is not focusing on pigments.

The downsides to electrolysis treatments include the lengthy process with anywhere from 15-30 sessions needed for hair electrolysis. If the hair follicles are bent, which can happen as a result of plucking or shaving, it can be harder for the needle to reach the root to destroy it. Electrolysis can sometimes result in skin discolouration if it is performed incorrectly so it is essential to find a qualified professional for your treatments. Finally, it can be pricey in comparison to LHR.

Electrolysis side effects can include redness, red dots, acne breakouts and some swelling.REQUEST AN APPOINTMENTVIEW PRICE LIST

What is Laser Hair Removal?

LHR works in a completely different way to electrolysis. LHR is a concentrated light beam that targets the pigments in hair follicles. A skin type assessment will be done to test which laser and setting will be the right fit for the client and then a test patch is carried out to ensure there are no issues. Once those steps are finalised the treatments can begin, carrying over several weeks to permanently reduce hair growth. The treatment is painless for most people and is very affordable in comparison to other methods.

One of the biggest advantages of LHR in comparison to electrolysis is the speed of the treatment. Electrolysis treatments are known to be lengthy while LHR, depending on the area, is over in a matter of minutes. LHR is painless in comparison to electrolysis and is very effective for large areas like the legs and back. The laser targets several follicles at a time so even though the area is large, the sessions are completed quickly excellent for Brazilian laser hair removal and facial hair removal.

The downside to LHR is that unlike electrolysis, it is not a permanent hair removal treatment, rather, it’s a permanent hair reduction treatment. The other downside is the types of hair ideal for treatment are those that are dark as the laser targets the pigments in the follicle. Those with grey or white blonde hair are not suitable for LHR and will find electrolysis works better for them.REQUEST AN APPOINTMENTVIEW PRICE LIST

The Verdict

When it comes to electrolysis vs laser hair removal, both treatments have positives and negatives and work better for some than others. If you have very fair hair that is white blonde or grey, electrolysis will be the better treatment option for you and you will want to search for a electrologist near me. However, if you have darker blonde, brown or black hair, LHR will be a great solution for you as it is more affordable, less painful and the treatments are carried out quickly and in fewer sessions.

I want to be hair free, where do I start?

Visit the expert team at Medical Aesthetic Laser Clinic in South Melbourne and Bundoora on (03) 9916 9631 or request a complimentary appointment online.