Unwanted body hair can be frustrating for some people, which is why there are different traditional methods of hair removal and modern methods including laser hair removal and electrolysis. Each of these methods has its advantages and drawbacks. Still, among them, diode laser hair removal and electrolysis are more effective as their effects last for a long time or even permanently. In this article, both methods are going to be discussed and compared to decide better which hair removal solution is the best option for you.
How does diode laser hair removal work?
Diode laser hair removal is an effective hair removal method that uses a beam of light to destroy unwanted hair follicles. The hair pigments absorb the laser light which is changed to heat to damage the follicles. This hair removal method is significantly effective on people with light skin and dark hair color. However, the significant feature of diode laser hair removal is the coverage of wider skin tones and hair colors.
How does electrolysis work?
Electrolysis is another popular hair removal method that uses a narrow wire to send an electric current into the hair follicles to stop their growth. This hair removal method is effective on all skin types and hair colors. By using the electrolysis hair removal method, hair growth will not return.
Evaluating efficacy of diode laser removal and electrolysis
To evaluate the efficacy of diode laser hair removal and electrolysis, it is necessary to know that each method has its pros and cons. Laser hair removal is a quick hair removal solution that can treat a large area. This method reduces between 70% to 90% of the hair after the treatment is completed. People with lighter skin and darker hair color experience a better result with a higher hair reduction percentage. On the other hand, electrolysis stops hair growth considerably. Although electrolysis takes more time to be done each session in comparison to diode laser hair removal, it is a permanent hair removal method with a 95% to 100% removal rate.
Skin and hair color considerations for diode laser removal and electrolysis
Skin tone and hair color are other factors that should be considered when deciding about the hair removal method. Here are each method’s reaction to the skin and hair color:
Diode laser hair removal: This hair removal solution is more effective on individuals with light to medium skin tone and dark hair. Dark and thick hair works best for diode laser hair removal as this laser light is absorbed by the hair pigments and if the hair is light or gray, it cannot absorb the laser beam, so the result will not be as expected.
For more information about the efficacy of diode laser hair removal for different skin tones, you can read this article: “Does diode laser hair removal work on all skin types?”
Electrolysis: This hair removal method works for all skin types and colors (light, medium, and dark tones with any hair colors) as it targets the hair follicles using an electric current and the hair or skin color cannot impact the removal procedure. Electrolysis is an effective solution for small areas like face hair or eyebrows.
Side effects and risks of electrolysis and diode laser hair removal
Diode laser hair removal and electrolysis have their slight side effects and risks. In this case, it is better to have enough information about each method to better decide which hair removal way is the right option for you.
Diode laser hair removal side effects:
- By doing the diode laser hair removal, you may experience redness, swelling, or skin irritations that remain from some hours to one or two days after each session.
- Laser light may cause hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation. This problem is more common among people with darker skin tones.
- Scarring and eye damage due to laser exposure, which is rarely caused by the laser operators, is another side effect of this hair removal method.
Electrolysis hair removal side effects:
- Electrolysis like diode laser hair removal can cause redness, skin irritation, and swelling, but they are usually milder and disappear in a shorter period.
- By using unsterile equipment, folliculitis may happen.
- Electrolysis has higher risks of scarring especially in sensitive areas.
Comparison between electrolysis and diode laser hair removal
Earlier in this article, we talked about different aspects of diode laser hair removal and electrolysis as hair removal methods. Now, it is time to make a general comparison between these two popular solutions. Diode laser hair removal has a fast procedure each session and it needs between 6 to 8 sessions depending on the area skin and hair color. Electrolysis consumes more time because of treating each hair follicle individually. The number of sessions in this method completely depends on the area of treatment and hair density.
Diode laser machines benefit from a cooling system that provides a comfortable situation for individuals under treatment. On the other hand, electrolysis is more painful and people feel more discomfort compared to laser hair removal.
Diode laser hair removal is less expensive, however; it may need more sessions for the best results. Electrolysis can be more expensive due to the number of sessions required for the desired result.
Conclusion
All hair removal solutions have their positive and negative sides and they can have different results on each person. In this article, two common hair removal methods, diode laser hair removal and electrolysis, have been discussed. They are both highly effective in the result, but they have different procedures and need different periods to see the desired results. Purify Skincare in Melbourne is a clinic that offers you diode laser hair removal treatment with the latest technology. We highly recommend you book a free consultation with our skin specialist to better decide and select the right hair removal method for your body.