Permanent Hair Removal for your Upper Lip
“Don't touch it, it's normal.”
When I hit puberty, every adult used to say this as they (ironically) stared at my new and very hairy upper lip.
I didn't listen, of course.
It was embarrassing. It made me nervous. And it made me very, very insecure.
So I picked up a razor that morning, carefully shaved my upper lip, and set myself up unknowingly to do so for the next decade.
Discovering permanent hair removal gave me more than a sigh of relief—it made me incredibly excited.
I knew it would be life-changing.
But most people will only do what they know or what is convenient—not necessarily what suits them best.
Now you'll finally settle the electrolysis vs. laser hair removal upper lip debate and know which one will work best for you and your lifestyle.
Ask the Expert: Electrolysis vs. Laser Hair Removal for the Upper Lip: Which is better?
BY SAMANTHA WELCH, ESTHETICIAN
The upper lip is where patients commonly have unwanted facial hair.
Choosing electrolysis or laser hair removal for your upper lip depends on the color of your hair, its thickness, pain tolerance, and your lifestyle.
- Hair Color: If you have dark hair, you can do both. If you have blonde, red, grey, or white hair, you can only do electrolysis because lasers need a lot of melanin in the hair to work.
- Hair Thickness: If your hair is thick and coarse, you'll do well with both. If it's thin and wispy “peach fuzz,” laser hair removal may not work as well because vellus hairs also have very little melanin in them.
- Efficacy: Electrolysis is permanent hair removal, while laser is permanent hair reduction.
- Pain: Electrolysis is generally more painful, especially in the upper lip with its delicate tissue. The use of numbing cream is a must. Laser is a much more comfortable experience.
- Time: Electrolysis on the lips can take anywhere from 15 to 40 minutes, depending on the technique used and hair density. Laser hair removal is around 10 minutes overall on average.
- Cost: Electrolysis can total $1,200 to $1,600 for a complete set of treatments for the upper lip. Laser hair removal ranges about $600-800 for 6-8 in-clinic visits.
- Frequency: Hair in the upper lip grows back quickly, just between 10 to 14 days. You can do laser every 2 weeks for faster results. Electrolysis can only be done every 4 weeks minimum to give your skin time to heal.
This is where at-home laser hair removal is very convenient. You can do it quickly with less pain, time investment, and money to spend.
- Permanent Hair Removal for your Upper Lip
- Ask the Expert: Electrolysis vs. Laser Hair Removal for the Upper Lip: Which is better?
- The Difference Between Electrolysis & Laser Hair Removal for the Upper Lips
- Pros & Cons: Electrolysis & Laser Hair Removal on the Upper Lips
- At-Home Laser Hair Removal
- Compatibility: Are you a good candidate for electrolysis or laser hair removal on the upper lip?
- Efficacy: How effective is electrolysis & laser hair removal on the upper lip?
- Pain Scale: How painful is electrolysis compared to laser hair removal on the upper lip?
- Cost & Price: How much will electrolysis & laser hair removal for upper lips cost?
- Time & Frequency: How long does it take to remove upper lip hair with electrolysis? How many sessions of laser hair removal are needed for the upper lip?
- Contraindications or Safety Considerations: Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal for the upper lip
- Risks & Side Effects: Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal for Upper Lip
- Operators and Home Use: Who can do electrolysis and laser hair removal?
- FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
- References:
The Difference Between Electrolysis & Laser Hair Removal for the Upper Lips
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is an effective long-term solution for permanent hair removal.
It's been around since 1875 but has lost in popularity with the emergence of the more convenient and affordable laser hair removal.
Its main drawback is the pain and time involved in the process.
Electrolysis works by safely inserting a very fine needle into each hair follicle to kill its growth cells. This is done through consecutive treatments until the hair is destroyed permanently.
How it Works
Your electrologist will insert a tiny needle probe into each hair follicle.
Depending on her preferred technique, she may use heat energy (thermolysis), chemical energy (galvanic), or both.
- Thermolysis uses a high-frequency current to heat the water molecules in your follicle. This heat will destroy the roots and other parts of your hair that allow it to re-generate.
- Galvanic relies on a chemical reaction instead of heat. You'll be holding a positively charged electrode during your session while your electrologist uses a negatively-charged probe. When these two meet during insertion, the galvanic current causes lye production inside the hair, eventually killing it.
- Blend is the combination of both techniques. Once the galvanic current produces lye, thermolysis heats it up, creating faster results. Blend is the best electrolysis method to use for strong, terminal hairs in the beard, chin, and jaw. It is also gentler on your skin, so less irritation and swelling should be after your session.
What to Expect
The upper lip is a very sensitive area, so electrolysis can be a very uncomfortable experience. The use of numbing creams is necessary for each session.
These visits can take around 15-30 minutes for thermolysis and 30-40 minutes for the blend technique (galvanic + thermolysis). This is in addition to the 30-40 minute wait time for the topical anesthetic to kick in.
You will also need to hold off on shaving 3-4 days before coming in. This is because your electrologist needs to see which hairs are in their active growth phase so she knows which ones she can work on.
I don't know about you, but coming to work with a stubble mustache when all you want is to make it disappear is excruciating.
Video: Electrolysis/Extremely Small Hair Under & Upper Lip/Permanent Removal
Although upper lip hair grows back within just 2 weeks, 4 weeks is the minimum you can get electrolysis on the same area. This is because your skin needs time to heal. At the beginning of your treatment, you return once a month. Your schedule will taper off as your hair growth slows down until it's all gone.
Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal: Upper Lip
Electrolysis vs. Laser Hair Removal: The Complete Guide
Electrolysis vs. Laser Hair Removal: Chin, Jaw, Beard, & Sideburns
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is another option for long-term hair removal.
It uses laser and light technology to safely disable your hair.
Your hair will grow back very light and refined over extremely long periods. Hair growth can take anywhere from months to years.
Laser hair removal is classified as “permanent hair reduction” instead of electrolysis' “permanent hair removal.” It can only delay regrowth and reduce your hair's thickness and density until it's negligible.
This result is usually good enough for most people, but it's not complete hair loss.
You will need to do maintenance once or twice a year.
Laser hair removal on the upper lip is swift and easy to do.
Settings used on you will depend primarily on your skin tone, hair color, and pain threshold. The higher the power, the quicker your results.
If you do lip and chin, you'll notice that the energy used for the upper lip seems more potent.
In laser hair removal, it's very important for the hair follicle to retain heat long enough to kill its own growth cells.
Fine hair releases heat much quicker than thick hair, so we need to give it more energy in a shorter time frame to do its job before that heat evaporates.
The upper lip is also generally a more sensitive area. The skin is so thin that you'll feel it more acutely even with the same amount of energy used in other areas.
A cooling mechanism is used to make you more comfortable during your session.
Laser Hair Removal | Lip & Chin
Unlike electrolysis where you can only visit your clinic once a month, you can safely get laser hair removal as soon as your upper lip hair is in its most vulnerable active growth stage. This occurs 2 weeks after your last treatment.
Committing to this 2-week schedule can fast-track your results.
An At-home laser hair removal is a more convenient and cost-effective way to do this.
Upper lips are usually done with the chin because excess hairs on these areas are hormone-driven.
Most women who have unwanted hair also have PCOS.
Hairs on the upper lip can be thick and coarse or fine and downy.
If your goal is to reduce your upper lip hair until it's no longer noticeable, you can opt for laser hair removal. It's quicker and more affordable.
Electrolysis is the way to go if you want total hair loss in the area.
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Pros & Cons: Electrolysis & Laser Hair Removal on the Upper Lips
Electrolysis
Best for: Small areas, Hormone-driven facial hair growth like hirsutism or hypertrichosis.
Pros:
- Permanent results – Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal. Once the hair follicle has been destroyed, it will not grow back.
- Suitable for all hair and skin types – Unlike laser hair removal, electrolysis can be used on any hair color or skin tone.
- Precise targeting – Electrolysis targets individual hair follicles, making it a good option for small, stubborn areas like the chin or upper lip.
- Safe and low-risk – Electrolysis is a safe procedure with few risks or side effects.
- Cost-effective over the long term – While the upfront cost of electrolysis may be higher than other hair removal methods, it can be more cost-effective over time since it is a permanent solution.
Cons:
- Highly technical – Your comfort and risk rely heavily on the skill and experience of your electrologist.
- Time-consuming – Electrolysis requires multiple sessions, with each session duration depending on the size of the area being treated. The numbing cream is a 30-minute wait; the actual procedure can last anywhere from an hour to 5 hours.
- Labor-intensive. Treatment is treated one strand at a time.
- Painful – The process of inserting a fine needle into each hair follicle and applying an electrical current can be uncomfortable and may cause pain or discomfort, especially in sensitive areas. The pain can also build the longer your session.
- Longer recovery period – It can take 3-5 days before your skin can recover from the procedure.
- Scarring – In rare cases, electrolysis may cause scarring or skin discoloration. This depends on the procedure and how well your skin recovers.
- Hair regrowth between sessions – Electrolysis does not immediately stop hair growth, so you may need to wait several days or weeks before seeing a noticeable reduction in hair growth.
- Upfront cost – Electrolysis can be more expensive than other hair removal methods, especially treating a large or multiple areas.
It's important to consider these pros and cons when deciding if electrolysis is the right hair removal method for you.
It's also good to consult a professional dermatologist or hair removal technician to discuss your options and create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and preferences.
Laser Hair Removal
Best for: Dark hair, Flexibility, Convenience & Affordability in long-term hair removal
Pros:
- Quick and efficient – Laser hair removal can treat large areas quickly and efficiently. Each session lasts anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the area being treated. Treating the chin and jaw takes around 15-20 minutes at most.
- Little to no recovery time needed – A few minutes of aftercare and post-procedure precautions.
- Low pain or discomfort – Laser hair removal can cause mild discomfort or a tingling sensation, but it is generally less painful than electrolysis, especially in larger areas.
- Minimal side-effects – And mostly temporary, like a little redness and tenderness on the area that fades after a few hours.
- Long-lasting results – Laser hair removal offers long-lasting results, with many patients seeing a significant reduction in hair growth after just a few sessions. Any regrowth also involves finer and fewer hairs.
- Cost-effective over the long term – While the upfront cost of laser hair removal may be higher than other hair removal methods, it can be more cost-effective over time since it reduces the need for ongoing hair removal treatments.
Cons:
- Not permanent – While laser hair removal can significantly reduce hair growth, it is not a permanent solution and may require ongoing maintenance treatments.
- May not work on all hair types – Laser hair removal is most effective on dark, coarse hair, and may not be as effective on lighter or finer hair. It cannot work on light blond, red, white, and grey hairs.
- Treatment of dark skin needs special equipment – nd:YAG and long-pulsed diode are the only types of laser that can work on dark skin tones, and these may not be available in all clinics. For at-home devices, here is our selection of the best at home laser hair removal for dark skin.
- Skin sensitivity – Laser hair removal can cause skin irritation, redness, or swelling, especially in patients with sensitive skin.
- Multiple sessions required – Laser hair removal requires multiple sessions, usually spaced several weeks apart, which can be time-consuming and require a long-term commitment.
- Upfront cost – Laser hair removal can be more expensive than other hair removal methods, especially treating a large or multiple areas.
When deciding on the best hair removal method for you, weighing the pros and cons of options such as laser hair removal or at-home hair removal devices is essential.
Consider your lifestyle, budget, and skin type to determine which approach would be most effective and practical for you.
At-Home Laser Hair Removal
Below are some of the laser and IPL devices you can compare by their most important features.
wdt_ID | Image | Device/Brand | Product | Max Energy Fluence | Skin Tone Coverage | I | II | III | IV | V | VI | Cooling/Pain-free |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | https://healthybeautiful.com/review/viqure-depimini-808nm-diode-laser-machine-in-depth-esthetician/ | ViQure EpiPro Diode Laser | 20.0 | I-VI | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Advanced Thermoelectric Cooling + Wind Cooling (0°C~5°C) + Cooling gel | |
2 | https://healthybeautiful.com/JOVS-X-3-in-1-IPL | JOVS X™ 3-in-1 IPL (OPT) | 7.0 | I-V | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Sapphire Cooling System | ||
3 | https://healthybeautiful.com/Ulike-Air-10 | Ulike Air 10 (SHR) | 6.7 | I-IV | Y | Y | Y | Y | 65°F/18°C | |||
4 | https://healthybeautiful.com/review/ulike-sapphire-air3-an-in-depth-review-by-estheticians/ | Ulike Sapphire Air3 | 7.2 | I-IV | Y | Y | Y | Y | Sapphire Cooling 10-20°C (50-68°F) | |||
5 | https://healthybeautiful.com/Bosidin-Pioneer-Pro-Official | BoSidin Pioneer-Pro (OPT) | 6.0 | I-V | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) |
Compatibility: Are you a good candidate for electrolysis or laser hair removal on the upper lip?
Hair Color
Hair color plays a significant role in determining the effectiveness of electrolysis and laser hair removal.
Electrolysis can be used on all hair colors, including blonde, white, gray, and red hair, as it destroys the hair follicle using an electric current, which is not dependent on the hair's color.
On the other hand, laser hair removal works best on dark hair, which has more melanin, as the laser targets the melanin in the hair follicle. The laser may not be effective on people with light-colored or fine hair, as the laser may not be able to differentiate the hair from the skin.
Therefore, electrolysis may be a more suitable hair removal method for you if you have light-colored or fine hair. If you have dark hair, laser hair removal may be a more effective option for you.
Skin Tone
Electrolysis works on all skin tones.
Laser hair removal is generally most effective for individuals with fair to olive skin tones, as the laser targets the melanin in the hair follicle. Individuals with darker skin tones may experience more side effects from laser hair removal, such as burns, discoloration, or scarring, as the laser may also target the melanin in the surrounding skin.
Laser hair removal can still work for darker skin tones but under certain conditions.
Professional lasers nd:YAG and long-pulsed diode are more effective for individuals with darker skin tones Fitzpatrick V-VI, as they use longer wavelengths to bypass the melanin in the skin and focus on the hair follicle.
Related: The Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal for Dark Skin
Hair Thickness
Electrolysis is effective for all hair thicknesses, from fine to coarse, as it targets each hair follicle individually using an electric current. However, because it only treats one hair follicle at a time, electrolysis can be time-consuming, especially for large areas.
On the other hand, laser hair removal is more effective on thicker hair because the laser can penetrate deeper into the hair follicle, which allows it to destroy the hair more effectively. Laser hair removal may not be as effective on fine or light-colored hair, as the laser may not be able to differentiate the hair from the surrounding skin.
Laser will have a hard time with vellus hairs or “peach fuzz” because there is very little melanin in fine hair.
Efficacy: How effective is electrolysis & laser hair removal on the upper lip?
When considering the effectiveness of electrolysis and laser hair removal on the upper lip, keep in mind that the hair on the upper lip is typically thin, and the skin in this area is sensitive.
The thin hair on the upper lip can be easier to treat for electrolysis, as it requires less energy to destroy the hair follicle. However, the sensitive skin in this area can make the procedure more uncomfortable. A numbing cream or ice can be applied to the area before the procedure to help minimize any discomfort.
For laser hair removal, the thin hair on the upper lip can be more difficult to target, as the laser may not be able to differentiate the hair from the surrounding skin. However, specific lasers, such as the Alexandrite and Nd:YAG, are effective for treating hair in this area. These lasers are safe for use on sensitive skin and can be adjusted to minimize discomfort during treatment.
Pain Scale: How painful is electrolysis compared to laser hair removal on the upper lip?
When considering the pain and discomfort associated with electrolysis and laser hair removal on the upper lip, there are a few factors to remember.
The upper lip is one of the most delicate parts for facial hair removal, second only to the eyebrows.
For electrolysis, the procedure involves inserting a very fine needle into each hair follicle, which can be uncomfortable or even painful, particularly in sensitive areas like the upper lip. The procedure can also be time-consuming, as each hair follicle must be treated individually.
Electrolysis can be painful, especially when treating the philtrum or the middle area.
It would be best to find a very good electrologist who uses great technology for a more comfortable treatment. (I personally prefer blend, a combination of galvanic and thermolysis, as it is gentler.)
Topical anesthetics are a must. A numbing cream can help significantly with the experience.
Laser hair removal is a much more comfortable experience overall.
For laser hair removal, the procedure can be relatively quick and less painful than electrolysis. However, some discomfort may be experienced during the procedure, particularly in sensitive areas like the upper lip. Patients may feel a sensation similar to the snap of a rubber band against the skin, and some redness or swelling may occur afterwards.
There are several ways to minimize pain and discomfort during both electrolysis and laser hair removal on the upper lip.
For electrolysis, a topical anesthetic cream can be applied to the area prior to treatment to help numb the skin and reduce discomfort.
For laser hair removal, a cooling gel or spray can be applied to the skin during the procedure to help minimize discomfort.
In summary, both electrolysis and laser hair removal on the upper lip can be associated with some level of discomfort or pain, but some steps can be taken to minimize these sensations.
Topical anesthetics can be used to reduce discomfort during electrolysis while cooling gels or sprays can be used during laser hair removal. It's important to consult with a dermatologist or hair removal specialist to determine which method best suits your individual needs and to discuss options for minimizing pain and discomfort during the procedure.
Cost & Price: How much will electrolysis & laser hair removal for upper lips cost?
The cost of electrolysis and laser hair removal for the upper lip can vary depending on several factors, including the clinic's location, the provider's experience, the method used, and the number of sessions required.
Electrolysis is charged per hour. The length of your session depends on the number of hairs you have and how often you have to return until it's all been removed.
Electrolysis typically costs between $50 and $150 per session, with each session lasting approximately 15-60 minutes. The total cost of electrolysis for the upper lip can vary depending on the number of sessions required to achieve the desired results. This can range from several sessions to several months of treatment.
Electrolysis on the upper lips can take anywhere between 15-30 minutes, about $40-60 in most states. It can take 4-10 hours in total, spanning several visits, to remove hair permanently. Total costs range from $1200 to $1600.
Laser hair removal for the upper lip typically costs between $100 and $300 per session, with each session lasting approximately 10-30 minutes. The total cost of laser hair removal for the upper lip can also vary depending on the number of sessions required to achieve the desired results. This can range from several sessions to several months of treatment.
Laser hair removal is charged per treatment size. Upper lips take no less than 5 minutes and cost around $100 per visit. You'll need 6-8 in-clinic visits for permanent hair reduction. The total cost is about $600-800.
Note that some insurance plans may cover the cost of hair removal for medical reasons, such as hirsutism or other medical conditions that cause excessive hair growth.
Additionally, some providers may offer package deals or discounts for multiple sessions, which can help lower the overall treatment cost.
Alternatively, you can invest in at-home laser hair removal system as a more cost-effective solution.
Time & Frequency: How long does it take to remove upper lip hair with electrolysis? How many sessions of laser hair removal are needed for the upper lip?
Time
The length of time it takes to remove upper lip hair with electrolysis can vary depending on several factors, including the density of hair, the type of hair, the size of the treatment area, and the provider's experience.
Electrolysis shouldn't take more than 15-30 minutes per visit because of the delicate tissue on the upper lip. It can take 4-10 hours in total for permanent results, spanning several visits.
Laser hair removal is another option for removing upper lip hair, and it typically takes less time per session than electrolysis. However, multiple sessions may still be required to achieve the desired results.
Laser hair removal takes less than 5 minutes each session, with 6-8 treatments in total. You'll have to return for maintenance once or twice a year.
Frequency
The number of sessions required for both can vary depending on the density of hair, type, and individual factors such as hormone levels.
Upper hair grows faster than most hair on the body. After each treatment, new “true” growth can be seen as early as 10-15 days.
You can treat this with laser hair removal, but not electrolysis. It takes a minimum of 4 weeks for the tissue to heal with this method.
We're looking at 18-24 months of regular visits for both electrolysis and laser hair removal. The frequency is between 4-8 weeks, determined by your severity.
At-home laser hair removal is a more convenient option for those with busy schedules, as it allows individuals to perform the treatment at their own pace and on their own time. At-home devices typically require less time per session than in-office treatments, meaning individuals can perform the treatment quickly and easily without having to carve out a large chunk of time from their day.
Additionally, the frequency of at-home laser hair removal treatments can be more flexible, as individuals can perform treatments on a schedule that suits their needs. This can be especially helpful for those with irregular schedules or who cannot make regular appointments at a dermatologist or hair removal clinic.
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Contraindications or Safety Considerations: Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal for the upper lip
Both electrolysis and laser hair removal have potential contraindications that individuals should be aware of before beginning treatment.
Here are some of the differences between the two methods:
Electrolysis:
- Pregnancy – Pregnant individuals are generally advised to avoid electrolysis due to the potential risks to the developing fetus.
- Heart conditions – Individuals with pacemakers or other heart conditions may not be candidates for electrolysis, as the electrical current used in the treatment could interfere with these devices.
- Skin conditions – Individuals with certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, may not be able to tolerate electrolysis due to the potential for skin irritation or damage.
- History of keloid scarring – Individuals with a history of keloid scarring may be at higher risk of developing scars or hyperpigmentation following electrolysis.
- Sunburn – Treatment should be postponed until the sunburn has fully healed to prevent further skin irritation.
- Diabetes – Individuals with diabetes may have impaired healing and may be more prone to infection following electrolysis.
While electrolysis can actually relieve ingrowns and folliculitis, acne vulgaris has a high presence of bacteria and can be painful.
Laser Hair Removal:
- Certain medications – Some medications, such as antibiotics and acne medications, can increase the skin's sensitivity to light and may make it more prone to adverse effects from laser hair removal.
- Moles or tattoos – Laser hair removal should not be performed on areas with moles or tattoos, as the laser can damage or discolor these areas.
- Hormonal imbalances – Individuals with hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may require additional treatments or have a lower success rate with laser hair removal.
- Pregnancy – Pregnant individuals are generally advised to avoid laser hair removal due to the potential risks to the developing fetus.
- Acne vulgaris – Treatment should be postponed until the acne has fully healed to prevent further skin irritation or scarring.
As with any medical treatment, it's important to discuss potential contraindications with a professional dermatologist or hair removal technician to determine if electrolysis or laser hair removal is a safe and appropriate option for your individual needs and health history.
Risks & Side Effects: Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal for Upper Lip
Electrolysis:
The primary side effects of electrolysis are pain and discomfort for long periods, swelling, and pinprick scabbing afterwards.
- Pain and discomfort – Electrolysis can be a painful and uncomfortable process, as a small needle is inserted into each hair follicle to deliver the electrical current. The procedure can cause permanent scarring and discoloration if the energy is too high.
- Skin irritation – Some individuals may experience redness, swelling, or skin irritation following electrolysis.
- Infection – Improper sterilization techniques or unsterile equipment can increase the risk of infection following electrolysis.
- Scarring – In rare cases, electrolysis can cause scarring or hyperpigmentation.
- Hair regrowth – Electrolysis may not permanently remove all hair, and regrowth can occur over time.
Electrolysis immediately after causes swelling and redness in the areas where the needle was inserted.
Upper lips treated by thermolysis shouldn't exceed 15 minutes in my experience because it takes too much toll on this sensitive area.
Blend (galvanic + thermolysis) is a gentler method and should be fine for up to 40 minutes.
Electrolysis on the upper lips shouldn't scab too much. This is highly dependent on the skill of your electrologist, though, and the technology she used.
You can use a polysporin ointment to help heal and avoid infections.
Video: Electrolysis: UPPER LIP (Indian)
Laser Hair Removal:
The most common immediate side effects of laser hair removal are redness, swelling, and irritation, but it should fade in under an hour.
You can apply an aloe vera soothing gel or laser enzyme gel to promote healing.
- Pain and discomfort – Laser hair removal can also be uncomfortable, with some individuals describing the sensation as a rubber band snapping against the skin.
- Skin irritation – Redness, swelling, and skin irritation can occur following laser hair removal. This should feel like a minor sunburn.
- Changes in skin color – Laser hair removal can cause changes in skin pigmentation, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones.
- Burns – The laser used in hair removal can cause burns or blistering if not used properly. There could be more severe side effects if the energy used is mismatched with skin tone. This includes inflammation, burns, blistering, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and scarring. A licensed laser technician would know how to use the right setting to avoid such incidents.
- Hair regrowth – Like electrolysis, laser hair removal may not permanently remove all hair, and regrowth can occur over time. A dreaded side-effect of laser hair removal for those with hormonal irregularities is a phenomenon known as paradoxical hypertrichosis. This is where the laser triggers vellus hairs on the cheeks and chin to turn into terminal hairs.
Whatever you do: DO NOT PLUCK, TWEEZE, THREAD, OR WAX. It has been scientifically proven that this type of mechanical stimulation can trigger regeneration in your hair growth cells up to 5x in the surrounding area. This means that when hairs are plucked in a certain pattern, your follicles can signal the surrounding area, leading to even more hairs growing back.
We want the complete opposite: to destroy your hair roots, including any hair growth cells that could trigger this biological regeneration response. Paradoxical hypertrichosis has been reported to happen more frequently in women of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and South Asian or Indian descent. This manifests mainly on the upper lip, jaw, chin, sideburns, and chest.
In this case, it would be best to skip other methods of hair removal and go straight to electrolysis if you fit this category.
As with any medical treatment, there are potential risks and side effects associated with both electrolysis and laser hair removal.
Discussing these risks with a professional dermatologist or hair removal technician and carefully considering your individual needs and preferences before deciding on a hair removal method is important.
Operators and Home Use: Who can do electrolysis and laser hair removal?
aser hair removal can be performed by licensed laser technicians, and dermatologists.
Electrolysis:
- Operator expertise – A trained professional, such as a licensed electrologist or dermatologist, must perform electrolysis. Licenses vary from state to state.
- Home use – Electrolysis devices for home use are available, but they may not be as effective as professional treatments and can be difficult to use.
Laser Hair Removal:
- Operator expertise – A trained professional, such as a licensed laser technician, esthetician, or dermatologist, must perform professional laser hair removal.
- Home use – Several FDA-approved at-home laser hair removal devices are now available on the market. While these devices may not be as powerful as professional treatments, they can be convenient for home use and are generally less expensive than professional treatments.
In summary, electrolysis and laser hair removal both require a trained professional to perform the treatment.
While electrolysis can be done at home with a personal device, it may not be as effective as professional treatments.
Laser hair removal is generally faster than electrolysis, but it can be more expensive and must be done by a trained professional. However, there are now several FDA-approved at-home laser hair removal devices that offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative for individuals looking to remove hair at home.
Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal: Upper Lip
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Electrolysis vs. Laser Hair Removal: Chin, Jaw, Beard, & Sideburns
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
References:
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- Marks DH, Hagigeorges D, Manatis-Lornell AJ, Dommasch E, Senna MM. Excess hair, hair removal methods, and barriers to care in gender minority patients: A survey study. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020 Jun;19(6):1494-1498. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13164. Epub 2019 Sep 25. PMID: 31553137.
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