What is electrolysis?

Electrology is the science of permanent hair removal. Using state-of-the-art technology, a small, controlled amount of electricity is gently applied to the base of the hair follicle utilizing a fine, surgical needle. When this is competently and skillfully accomplished, the regenerative ability of the hair follicle is permanently eliminated.

Why should I choose electroloysis over other hair removal methods?

If you want permanent hair removal, electrolysis is the only way to achieve this goal.

What’s the difference between electrolysis and laser hair removal and which is best?

There’s an avalanche of information on the internet about the difference between electrolysis and laser hair removal and the key to choosing which method is best for you is to understand how both work. There are advantages and disadvantages to both modalities.

I’m a licensed and certified professional electrologist and I’ve been practicing for over twenty years. While I don’t perform laser hair removal, I do work in a dermatology office where it is offered and performed by a doctor, nurse, and physician’s assistant. I don’t consider laser hair removal to be in competition with electrolysis—they’re completely different modalities and often, the two can be combined for optimal results.


Both electrolysis and laser hair removal have distinctive value to rid unwanted hair. Quite often, Dr. Polisky, the dermatologist whose office I work in, will refer clients to me and vice versa. Laser hair removal and electrolysis can and should work hand in hand with each other.


Here’s a quick synopsis:

Electrolysis works by treating one hair follicle at time.

Advantages of Electrolysis over Laser

• While the process can take several treatments, it results in permanent hair removal.
• It is the ideal solution for small areas like the face where you want the hair gone forever.
• It has a proven track record (over 120 years) for safety and effectiveness.
• Electrolysis works on all skin types and color of hair and can be safely applied to all body areas.

Disadvantages of Electrolysis over Laser

• Because the treatment is one hair at a time, it is not considered a fast process.

 

Laser hair removal works by targeting the melanin (pigment) in the hair.

Advantages of Laser over Electrolysis

• Lasers are fast. The laser hand-set wand can treat numerous hairs simultaneously in seconds.
• While not permanent, the results can last long term (several weeks to several months)—a large body area can be done in minutes.

Disadvantages of Laser over Electrolysis

• Because lasers target the melanin (pigment) in the hair, it only works on dark hair. It does not work on light, blond, gray, red, or white hair.
• Lasers are not permanent. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) only allows lasers to claim long term hair reduction.
• If a person is tan or has a darker skin tone, the laser can get absorbed by the pigment in the skin rather than the hair follicle, limiting the effect of the treatment and potentially damaging the skin.
• Lasers have not been evaluated for long-term safety of the patient’s skin and health.

Liz Stapleton
Permanent Hair Removal Chicago
Be Forever Free of Unwanted Hair

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