Understanding Other Hair Removal Options

Which Hair Removal Options is Best for Me?

As the number of home and salon laser hair removal options appear it’s confusing to know which method is the best. In reality, they all use different technology and you should learn the differences before making your decision to achieve the most benefits.

Laser Hair Removal vs Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense pulsed light (IPL) lamps are widespread, but should not be mistaken for lasers as light source to power hair removal. It is easy to become confused by the technology so we will explain the difference between these lamps and the class IV medical lasers, such as the Alexandrite and ND:YAG lasers, used at Epilium & Skin London. Less expensive than lasers, IPL lamps are also less effective when you want to permanently removal hair. After both treatments you will keep a smooth and hairless skin for several weeks avoiding shaving. The laser system emits a monochromatic beam, which recognizes the hair target while the IPL lamp is polychromatic, therefore it is less focussed, and less effective. Although 30% of IPL devices are used by physicians and have a medical CE rating, it has been proven that for permanent hair removal the laser device is superior, in terms of both the results and safe treatment. Some IPL lamps may provide a solution for some types of hair, but the number of sessions will be greater.

Disadvantages of Intense Pulse Light (IPL)

A greater number of sessions with IPL are usually required, compare that to the Epilium & Skin laser hair removal program which requires far less. Hair re-growth occurs after 2 or 3 years. It is therefore not a truly permanent hair removal solution. The IPL lamp thins the hair without destroying the bulb. A person who is treated by this pulsed light method is unlikely to achieve optimal results and will therefore have to consider alternative solutions such as waxing or regular top-up IPL sessions over the time.

Laser Hair Removal vs Electrolysis

Electrolysis is a proven safe and effective technique to permanently remove unwanted hair from the face and body. It works for both women and men and on all types of skin and hair color.

This solution is best for areas where hair is not optimally removed by using advanced lasers. The process works by inserting an extremely fine probe into the hair pore and emitting an electrical pulse to destroy the root of hair growth. As the treatment could be a little bit painful, you may want to apply anesthetic cream two hours before the treatment. The duration of this type of treatment is lengthy since it treats the hairs one-by-one. We recommend this treatment for small areas or when hairs are scattered. Similarly to the laser treatments, it involves several sessions to counter the hair lifecycle.

Electrolysis can work alone, or alongside laser treatment plans. It may be ideal in the following cases:

• • When the hair is too light and does not contain enough melanin
  • In areas where laser treatment is inappropriate because of the risk of a paradoxical re-growth (regeneration of more, thicker hair)
  • Treating small areas with isolated hairs

Following an electrolysis session, sensitivity to light is increased and you will need to avoid direct sun exposure on the treated areas. In some cases, small scabs may appear after the sessions. It is important not to touch or pull them off. They will fall off naturally within 2 to 3 weeks of the treatment.

What is the right laser hair removal method for me?

Ultimately the best way to choose which laser hair removal method is better for you is by making an appointment by clicking the link at the top right of this page and scheduling a free consultation with one of our center specialists. They will explain your options and help you decide which method is best for your skin and your hair removal goals.