Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal and electrolysis are the longest lasting methods for body and facial hair removal available today. Not surprisingly, both electrolysis and laser hair removal are popular and offered by various businesses throughout Vancouver.
Both procedures use a concentrated energy source to destroy hair follicles and provide long-term hair removal. The method in which follicles are destroyed, however, are different. Laser hair removal involves the application of a laser light to a particular treatment area. Pigments, or colours, in hair follicles in that area absorb the light energy, which destroys the follicles and hinders hair growth. Electrolysis, on the other hand, uses a mild electric current to damage hair follicles. The current is applied by inserting a small needle-like probe directly into each individual hair follicle in the treatment area.
Hair grows in cycles, and not all hair follicles are always active. Therefore, both laser hair removal and electrolysis require multiple treatments in order to effectively inhibit hair growth in every follicle of a particular treatment area.
Is Electrolysis Better Than Laser Hair Removal?
Both of these methods have advantages and disadvantages. In particular, laser hair removal, a relatively new procedure, is praised for being much faster and more cost-effective than electrolysis, which is a more traditional procedure. Laser hair removal is faster because it targets multiple hair follicles at once, making it the favourable choice for large areas of the body such as the back and legs. And since light, rather than a needle, is used, it is also known for being much less painful than electrolysis.
Laser hair removal has been likened to small rubber bands snapping against the skin, and electrolysis to getting a tattoo. The discomfort with electrolysis is not only more intense, but it must be endured for a much longer period of time, sometimes hours for an area that could be comparably treated in minutes using a laser.
Understandably, laser hair removal has been growing rapidly in popularity, however, in certain circumstances, electrolysis may still be considered. Electrolysis is effective at treating the fine, light-coloured hair, known as vellus hair and often referred to as peach fuzz.
Ultimately, deciding between laser hair removal and electrolysis comes down to personal choice and comfort level. Speak to your health care provider to determine which option is most suitable for you, or call Electra Laser Hair – Vancouver today to schedule a consultation.
Phone: 604-255-2737 – Downtown Vancouver
