How to Find Best Permanent Method of Hair Removal

Laser hair removal or electrolysis can eliminate the need for shaving.

Although there are no hair removal methods that are truly permanent 100 percent of the time, there are two options that produce long-lasting results. Electrolysis and laser hair removal are long-term hair removal solutions that in some instances can permanently halt hair growth. Of the two, only electrolysis is considered a reliable permanent method of hair removal by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, there are a variety of factors to consider when determining which of these long-term hair removal methods is best for you.

Instructions

1. Calculate the costs for hair removal methods. In general, the up-front cost of laser removal is much higher than electrolysis. However, depending on the size of the area and the number of treatments needed, electrolysis can sometimes cost more in the long run. For exact cost comparisons, speak to several hair removal specialists in your area as prices vary.

2. Assess the amount of time needed to achieve permanent hair removal. Laser removal usually requires fewer treatments and takes less time than electrolysis. With laser hair removal, you can usually plan on five to seven treatments. Using electrolysis, complete hair removal can take 10 to 25 treatments.

3. Take your hair and skin color into consideration. Laser hair removal works best on individuals with light skin and dark hair. If you have dark skin or light hair, the benefits of laser removal are unlikely to be significant or lasting. There is only one type of laser that works on African Americans. Electrolysis is effective on most skin and hair types, making it a good alternative if the hair you want to remove is soft and light.

4. Ask yourself how much pain you are willing to bear. Although laser hair removal is reported to burn a little, it does not cause a significant amount of pain. During electrolysis, a small needle is inserted into the hair follicles to destroy them and prevent hair growth. In general, electrolysis is more painful than laser removal.

5. Weigh the risks. In rare instances, laser hair removal can causing burning or scarring. Electrolysis can also cause slight scarring, although it may not be noticeable. However, electrolysis scars can cause hyper-pigmentation and keloids in African Americans. As such, electrolysis is not recommended for this skin type.

6. Compare the effectiveness of each treatment. While laser hair removal may prevent hair growth for an extended period of time, it is estimated that between 40 percent and 80 percent of the hair will eventually grow back. With electrolysis, the hair removal is more likely to be complete and permanent. Both removal options may require future treatments to keep hair growth at bay.

Tips & Warnings

• You can greatly reduce the risks associated with long-term hair removal by seeking treatment from a well-qualified clinician.

References

• Web MD: Cosmetic Procedures and Hair Removal
• Web MD: For Women Only: Best Options for Hair Removal; Colette Bouchez
• Hairless NYC Clinic Inc: Electrolysis Versus Laser Hair Removal, Which is Better?

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish