Laser Hair Removal or Electrolysis
We have encountered this question hundreds of times whether it is with a potential client, or in social settings. The debates have been many. We have watched the development of laser hair removal over the years, and judgements based on facts. We hope after you review the comparisons of each, you will walk away with additional information that will help you further in your decision-making process. We encourage you to do research on your own and be an informed consumer. Your decision will be made based on what is best for you and your particular circumstances.
ELECTROLYSIS
PERMANENT HAIR REMOVAL
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
PERMANENT HAIR REDUCTION
Safe and effective treatment for ALL hairs – dark, blond white and red and ALL skin types, light and dark. The practitioner needs enough length of the hair to grasp with the tweezers for treatment. Hair does not have to be long for treatment. Avoid waxing/tweezing/threading prior to treatment. If there is large volume, cutting or shaving is preferred as it does not affect activity below the skin.
FDA DESIGNATION
Treatment for individuals with dark hair and light skin (not blond, gray or red hair or dark skin). Hairs are to be visible but shaved short the day of the procedure. Avoid waxing or tweezing the hair and electrolysis three weeks before treatment.
Timing and Intensity, how much for how long (micro seconds) is selected based on specific hair type utilizing a very fine probe which is inserted into the follicle. The entire follicle unit is treated individually for effective destruction of specific hair within the follicle. There are various technique applications available with state-of-the art computerized technology.
Application
Treatment of desired area containing many hairs which may contain dark, light, white and red hairs. Results may be optimized for dark hairs in the area but not effective for blond, gray or red hairs. Goggles must be worn to prevent exposure of your eyes to laser light.
Skilled, Certified and licensed Electrologist. The client should always ask for the practitioner’s credentials and experience in the field. Office should be clean and professional. Always ask about the practitioner’s infection control practices.
Practitioner
Since lasers are prescription medical devices they should be used only under the direction of a licensed practitioner preferably an MD who is board certified in dermatology or similar specialty. If another licensed person (i.e. physician’s assistant/licensed nurse) performs the procedure, the MD should supervise and be available onsite during treatments. Consumer should thoroughly check the credentials of nonmedical personnel performing the treatments, if other than in a medical setting.
Depending on skin type and sensitivity, some redness/swelling may occur (which will subside within an hour or two) possible hyperpigmentation/hypopigmentation (if overtreated) is possible, scabbing may occur.
Sunlight should be avoided directly on treatment area before and after procedure.
Avoid makeup application directly after treatment to avoid bacteria from entering the skin. Skin should be kept clean post treatment.
Side effects
May include swelling, redness and possible scarring possible hyperpigmentation/hypopigmentation, scabbing, changes in hair patterns – possible stimulation of new growth in areas next to treated areas) Sunlight should be avoided during healing after procedure.
Treatment should be avoided with any sunburn in the area to be treated. Tanning should be avoided pre and post treatment. Sunscreen should always be worn whenever you are in the sun. Tanning booths should be avoided; the UV light damages the skin. What you will feel during treatment: There is a sensation associated with the electrolysis procedure, which one might interpret as a slight warming effect, but with today’s computer-assisted technology, client comfort has been maximized. Certain areas are more sensitive than others. Topical anesthetics can be applied prior to treatment for those who may be oversensitive. Hair is removed from follicle.
Sun exposure
Using sunless tanning products and tan from sun exposure will affect the start of treatment. Tan from sun exposure must be completely gone before starting treatments because tanning increases the risk of side effects mentioned above. Sunscreen must be worn whenever you are in the sun, avoid tanning booths, the UV light damages skin. Avoid sun exposure four to six weeks before treatment
100 percent removal of hair over a period of time (hair growth cycle dependent), consistency of treatment.
Results
For suitable candidates, there may be a 20-90 percent reduction over a period of time (hair growth cycle dependent), consistency of treatment.
Electrolysis is considered very cost effective when compared to other temporary hair removal methods, such as laser. A schedule is set up at the consultation depending on the needs of each client which will determine the length and frequency of electrolysis treatments. Commitment and consistency are key elements for successful hair removal.
Cost
Expect 6 to 8 treatments scheduled 6 to 8 weeks apart (approx) to achieve reduction. Consultation will determine frequency and cost Consistency is key for this process.
Hair Growth Stages
