Laser Hair Removal - Is it Permanent?

Monday, July 12, 2010

Electrolysis vs. Laser Hair Removal
by Bonnie Kelly

Many clients ask what the difference is between electrolysis and laser treatments. The answer is that both procedures vary greatly, but deciding which is right for you depends heavily on skin type, hair type and personal preference. Electrolysis has been around for a long time and is the only way to "permanently" remove the hair follicle. Laser hair removal is a relatively newer technology and works best on dark-haired, light-skinned candidates. Electrolysis will work for virtually all skin types and colors, but can take longer to clear a large area of hair compared to laser removal.

Electrolysis
What is electrolysis? Electrolysis is performed by gently inserting a small, sterile probe into the follicle along side of the hair. An electrical pulse is sent down the needle, impairing its ability to produce hair.

Is electrolysis safe? Electrolysis has been in existence for over 135 years and is the only proven form of permanent hair removal. It is clinically proven to be safe and effective. Unlike other methods, electrolysis eliminates ANY hair and treats ALL skin types with no negative side effects.

Is electrolysis painful? Electrolysis is not nearly as painful as waxing, threading or other hair removal procedures. Some sensation may be felt as the needle enters the follicle and the current is discharged, but most patients can tolerate electrolysis without requiring pain relief.

Can electrolysis cause scarring? After the hair has been removed, the skin may appear to have a slight redness, and possibly even a tiny scab could occur after the procedure. These should disappear within hours after the treatment. Electrolysis performed by a well-trained and registered technician should never result in burning or scarring. It is very important that you see an electrologist who has experience with your skin type.

How long does electrolysis take? Depending upon the area of your body that needs the treatment, full removal could take several months and multiple treatments to complete. In some cases, a laser hair removal procedure can help speed up the process on large treatment areas, but this is not always the case and depends on your skin type. Consult your electrologist about the best course of action that is both time- and cost-effective.

Laser Hair Removal

What is Laser hair removal? Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses an intense, pulsating beam of light to remove unwanted hair. This light targets dark pigment, called melanin, in the hair shaft area while not heating up or damaging the outer layer of skin.
Who should get laser hair removal? Both men and women seek laser hair removal because it can treat large areas in minutes. Laser works best on light skin, dark coarse hairs.

Does it hurt? If you compare laser removal to waxing, a laser is not nearly as painful - but is probably a bit more painful than tweezing. When the pulsed light touches your skin, it feels like being snapped with a rubber band.

Can laser removal cause scarring? Laser removal should not cause any scarring. Your skin may have some redness to it after the treatment, but this will disappear within hours.

When will I see results? On average, most clients see an 80% reduction in hair growth after a series of four to eight treatments. Laser appointments are spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart, depending on the area being treated.

How long does it last? To keep an area totally hair-free, MAINTENANCE TREATMENTS ARE ALWAYS REQUIRED. At Berkshire Hair Removal, we use the FDA-cleared state-of-the-art Candela Gentlelase system.

Visit Berkshire Hair Removal for more information on electrolysis and laser hair removal.

About the Author
Bonnie Kelly has been a Registered Electrologist and Certified Laser Technician for over 14 years, and offers alternative options for removing unwanted hair.

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