Which method is right for you?: Laser Hair Removal vs. Waxing vs. Electrolysis (2024)
by Glow Luxe
Glow
Laser hair removal, waxing, and electrolysis are all methods used for removing unwanted hair, but they each have their own unique differences. Which method is right for you? If you're in Victoria BC, we also offer free consultations so you can explore your options.
Laser hair removal uses a concentrated beam of light to target and destroy the hair follicle, which ultimately leads to a reduction in hair growth over time. It's great for permanent hair removal on larger areas of the body like the legs, arms, and back, and can be a great option for people who want long-lasting results. Popular areas are bikini/brazilian and legs. However, it may not be as effective on lighter or finer hair, and multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.
PROS:
Less painful than waxing electrolysis
Results are permanent
Fewer treatments required compared to waxing and electrolysis
Very effective for darker hair colours
Fastest of the permanent hair removal options
Makes personal grooming super simple!
CONS:
More expensive up-front cost
Requires a well-trained laser technician for best result. not for DIY
Potential for burning when technician is undertrained or clients don't follow protocols
Not a great option for very light hair or very dark skin tones
Waxing involves applying warm wax to the skin and then quickly removing it, along with the hair, using a cloth or paper strip. It's a more traditional method of hair removal that can be done at home or at a salon. Waxing can be used on most areas of the body and is effective on all hair types. However, it can be painful and may cause skin irritation or ingrown hairs.
Often considered the most painful of the three hair removal methods
Not permanent so treatments are on-going
Potential skin irritation, redness, ingrown hair
Less experienced waxing specialist may actually draw blood
Electrolysis uses a tiny needle to deliver an electric current to each hair follicle, damaging it and preventing future hair growth. It's a more precise method of hair removal and can be used on any skin or hair type. However, it can be time-consuming, as each hair follicle must be treated individually, and multiple sessions are usually required for optimal results.
PROS:
A great method for removing grey, white or light blonde hair.
Permanent hair removal
Effective for coarse hair
CONS:
High level of localized pain as each hair follicle is individually shocked.
Slow and time consuming
Not a great method for large body areas.
Potential redness, swelling, scabbing/scarring
WHICH METHOD IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Ultimately, the best method for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences, as well as the expertise of the professional performing the procedure. It's important to do your research, read reviews, and ask questions to ensure that you choose a safe and effective option provided by a properly trained professional.
At Glow Luxe Skin Care, we've provided waxing and electrolysis in the past, but we really LOVE the results and freedom that laser hair removal provides our clients.
Laser hair removal is more popular, has shorter treatment times, and fewer side effects compared to electrolysis. Waxing is quick and can be done on large areas, but hair regrowth occurs. Choosing the right hair removal method depends on factors such as pain tolerance, desired results, and budget.
Electrolysis is considered a more permanent solution than laser hair removal (it stops hair growth completely while laser hair removal slows and reduces hair growth), but it requires more individual sessions (closer to 14), and the sessions can take longer. You might not see full results for nearly 18 months.
Another major drawback of the electrolysis method is that it can't be done for a large body surface area, and it also sometimes leads to scar formation. Laser hair removal requires fewer sessions than electrolysis. Laser hair removal usually takes about 4 to 8 sessions for best results.
Waxing is the cheapest method among the three, but it is not permanent. Waxing is the most painful form of hair removal, and it can easily irritate the skin. Electrolysis is relatively painless but might cause swelling, scars, and redness in the treated areas.
Electrolysis can permanently remove unwanted hair. Once your hair is gone, you won't need maintenance treatments. It works on all hair types, including light-colored hairs, which lasers cannot remove. There's no downtime.
It's a time-consuming procedure requiring multiple sessions. Skin discoloration is a possibility. The electricity in the device can actually destroy the capillaries in the surrounding areas. It can be very painful. It is not recommended for people with rosacea since the skin is so easily irritated.
Rid of Body Hair? Actors, like many other celebrities, trade on their look. Unshaven legs can be catnip for paparazzi. Many rely on laser hair removal treatments— although this can be problematic, as laser hair removal is less effective on light hair for fairer-skinned people, or dark hair on darker-skinned people.
Also, electrolysis works with the widest range of skin and hair types. It's good for sensitive areas of the body, like the face or bikini line. The main disadvantage to electrolysis is the length of time needed to achieve permanent hair removal.
Once you start Electrolysis refrain from plucking, waxing or threading. Any method that requires to pull the hair from the root will slow down your progress.
Less painful than waxing electrolysis. Results are permanent. Fewer treatments required compared to waxing and electrolysis. Very effective for darker hair colours.
How Much Hair Can Be Removed in One Session? Electrolysis damages roughly 35% of hair per session — the amount may be lower or higher depending on your hair type. An electrologist may be able to eliminate soft hair quicker than coarse hair since the former is easier to destroy.
Electrolysis can be expected to kill 50 to 60 percent of hair follicles during any one session. Therefore, you can reasonably expect a 40 to 50 percent regrowth of hair in the following weeks or months (assuming all growing hairs are successfully killed).
Laser therapy and electrolysis both produce longer-lasting effects compared to shaving. But electrolysis seems to work the best. The results are more permanent. Electrolysis also carries fewer risks and side effects, and you don't need the maintenance treatments required for laser hair removal.
Body Sugaring is similar to waxing. A warm paste made of sugar and citric acid is applied and, after cooling down, is removed. Unlike waxing the hair is pulled out in the direction of hair growth, which is a little more comfortable.
This treatment needs to be done by a certified laser specialist or dermatologist. It can be anywhere on the body, except for the under-eyes area. It is effective on darker and thicker hair and requires multiple sessions to remove all the hair from a specific area.
Generally speaking, you are likely to require between 8 and 12 treatments. The average time from start to finish is about 12 months. It can take anything from 8 months up to 2 years in some cases. The total number of sessions needed to remove hair permanently from a particular area will vary from person to person.
Yes. Unlike other hair removal methods that offer a temporary solution, Electrolysis is permanent and is the only FDA approved method of permanent hair removal.
Electrolysis can be likened to having a tattoo—it stings or prickles. Many people get around this by taking an over-the-counter painkiller an hour or so before treatment. Applying ice packs afterward can reduce any post-treatment discomfort. Laser treatment is akin to having a rubber band snapped against your skin.
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