The Great Debate! Laser vs Electrolysis 

Although shaving, waxing, threading and tweezing can remove unwanted hair, long term solutions are becoming more sought after. Two popular methods of hair removal are electrolysis and laser.

Both procedures target hair follicles under the skin to curb or prevent their growth.

Laser Hair Removal

Mild radiation is delivered to damage the hair follicles sufficiently to diminish growth. It does not eliminate unwanted hair forever, it does grow back eventually. The treatment is performed based on the colour and thickness of the hair being removed as well as the clients skin tone also being taken into account.

Advantages:

Precisely targets coarse, dark hairs.

Small areas can be treated in just minutes, targeting several hairs at once.

New hair grows back lighter in colour and finer in texture.

Many clients see long term results after 3-8 sessions.

Disadvantages:

Different type of laser needed for different skin tones, not one laser is suitable for all skin colours. Laser works best on dark hair and light skin as the laser targets darker colours.

Side effects can include; swelling, redness, skin discolouration and scarring.

Skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) can be increased. Sunlight needs to be avoided for 6 weeks before treatment.

Electrolysis

Involves inserting a fine needle into the hair follicle, sending an electrical current through it, destroying the hair root. It is the only method of permanent hair removal.

Advantages:

It is effective for people of every skin and hair type/colour.

No recovery time, meaning that normal activities can be resumed immediately after treatment.

No harsh chemicals are used on the skin.

Disadvantages:

Several sessions may be required. Some people require up to 30 sessions, with every week or every other week producing the best results.

It can be painful and uncomfortable.

In rare cases, scarring can occur.

Which method is best for permanent results?

Electrolysis. Although a slower method than laser, it is more versatile and permanently removes hair.

 Good thing is that we offer both services in Feature Clinic so you can try for yourself.