Laser hair removal is often compared with other hair removal methods. Laser hair removal is currently the most effective method of hair removal because of several innate properties. Hair removal methods targeting the surface of the skin, such as shaving and depilatory products, are short-lasting and cause problems beneath the skin, such as ingrown hairs. Methods involving removal or partial removal of the hair shaft, such as tweezing and waxing, may last slightly longer than surface methods, but are never permanent and still cause problems such as ingrown hairs. Lasers target beneath the skin non-invasively and have the longest-lasting effects.
Electrolysis is often compared with laser hair removal. Although electrolysis does target beneath the skin, there are many disadvantages. Electrolysis is invasive because a small electrode that feels like a needle is inserted into each follicle. Because of its penetration of the skin, it is painful and infection can always develop. Also, because each follicle has to be attacked separately, this is a tedious process and large areas such as men’s backs and women’s legs are nearly impossible. A laser can attack thousands of follicles with just one pulse. Also, the electrode that is inserted during electrolysis is straight, hugely reducing the effectiveness if any type of curl or wave is present in the follicle. Follicles are usually curly or wavy if the natural hair is as well. The only advantage of electrolysis is where lasers fall short: non-pigmented hair. For example, electrolysis can eliminate gray hairs that lasers are blind to.
Laser hair removal is quickly making other methods of hair removal obsolete, including electrolysis. Laser hair removal is extremely safe if performed properly. It is also non-invasive, quick, effective and long-lasting. There is not one laser that can achieve the desired results on everyone. Depending on the patient’s skin and hair characteristics, an experienced physician can determine the best type of laser and settings to use.
