Written by: Blaise Geyer PA-C
If you have struggled with unwanted hair growth, you know how time consuming and frustrating it can be to constantly have to “de-fur” yourself. Enter electrolysis and laser hair removal. Each are excellent ways of achieving permanent and semi-permanent hair removal but what is the difference? Let’s dive into each modality a little deeper.
What is Electrolysis? 
Electrolysis targets individual hairs using a thin metal probe that delivers a low-level electrical pulse to the hair follicle. The hair is then removed with tweezers. Results are considered permanent because the electrical current destroys the hair follicle, however, sometimes it may take a couple of treatments to achieve this result. This treatment is considered safe for all skin types, however, may cause more discomfort and require lengthier sessions than with laser hair removal.
What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal (LHR) uses specific wavelengths of light to target the melanin in dark hair follicles to slow down and thin the hair. Unlike electrolysis, LHR doesn’t target each individual hair follicle. Also, it only works on dark hair where electrolysis can target any hair color. During this process, the hair follicle is destroyed or damaged. Laser hair removal is referred to as a long-term hair removal treatment rather than permanent because if the follicle is not destroyed, the hair may regrow in time. A benefit to LHR vs electrolysis is that the sessions are thought to be less painful, quicker and clients tend to see results faster.
The decision: which treatment is best for me?
The hair removal modality that you pursue should ultimately be based on these factors: size of area treated, skin type, and color of hair. For larger treatment areas such as the legs, LHR is a more appropriate option. If you are dark complected, electrolysis is safer. Lastly, if you have light hair like blond or red, electrolysis will be the better choice.
Hopefully these hair removal modalities are clearer to you. If you are someone that needs to “de-fur,” contact our office to schedule a consultation and we’ll determine which of these is best for you!