Removing unwanted body hair by shaving or waxing can be a time-consuming chore, and it can also result in irritation of the skin. Some of the most effective permanent hair removal solutions include laser light treatment and electrolysis. However, some people are unsure what the difference between the two treatments is. Here’s a look at what they involve.
Electrolysis
This method involves passing an electric current through the hair follicle to cause deliberate damage, and prevent the re-growth of the hair. A very fine single-use needle is inserted under the skin, which targets an electric current directly at the follicle, in order to kill the root of the hair.
The procedure is permitted to be described as permanent by the British Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), although it takes a course of four to eight treatments for it to be fully effective. The course of treatment may need to be repeated after six weeks, until a permanent hairless state is achieved.
Electrolysis should only be carried out by a qualified and licensed beauty therapist or dermatologist. Before the procedure, they should carry out a skin analysis, and discuss your present state of health and medical history to make sure that the treatment can be carried out safely.
You may experience some mild discomfort during the treatment, and may be advised to take some painkillers beforehand. After the treatment, you may have slightly tender or red skin, but this should clear up within a day, and you can resume your usual activities immediately.
The treatment is suitable for all skin types, hair colours, and hair types, and can be used anywhere on the body. It is considered one of the most effective methods of permanent hair removal.
Laser hair removal
This method uses a laser light to heat the pigment in the hair follicle and damage it, reducing the rate of regrowth. The light is absorbed by the melanin, which is the pigment in the hair follicle. It works best on people with dark hair, because they have more melanin in their skin.
People with blonde, white or grey hair are not suitable candidates for laser light treatment, because they do not have enough melanin to make the procedure effective. However, it is a very effective method of long-term hair removal for people with darker hair. Any new hair growth tends to be finer and lighter in colour than the original hairs.
Laser hair removal is a very quick process, usually taking between 10 minutes and one hour, depending on the size of the area being treated. You may experience some mild discomfort during the treatment, which can be managed with painkillers if necessary. Afterwards, you may find that the skin is a little red and swollen, but this should soon subside.
The treatment will need to be repeated every four to six weeks, or until a satisfactory state of more permanent hair removal hair been achieved. If you would like to find out more about laser treatment in Essex, please get in touch today.
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