How Much Does Electrolysis Cost?
The average cost of electrolysis hair removal is $450, according to 60 reviews on RealSelf, but that cost can range up to $600 for a series of treatment sessions.
Read on to find out why you might end up paying more or less for electrolysis, and whether actual patients think this permanent hair removal treatment is worth the money.
Is electrolysis worth the money?
Electrolysis has an impressive 89% Worth It Rating from RealSelf members, who say that the treatments effectively removed their unwanted body hair, the cost was affordable, and they had better results with electrolysis compared to other hair removal treatments like waxing and laser hair removal.
Electrolysis is less expensive than the average laser hair removal cost of $875, and RealSelf members also give laser hair removal a lower Worth It Rating: 87%.
Another advantage of electrolysis is that it works on all hair types and textures, skin tones, and skin types. This may make it worth the cost for many people who can't undergo laser hair removal, which targets hair based on pigment and doesn’t work well for people with blonde, red, gray, or white hair, says New York City dermatologist Dr. Nelson Lee Novick. “It’s my preferred method for permanent hair removal, since it is, in fact, permanent—whereas laser hair removal can be marketed only for permanent reduction.”
According to the American Electrology Association, modern technology enables the electrolysis process to be speedier and more comfortable than it was traditionally, but you'll need to factor in the amount of time you'll spend during treatment sessions. The efficiency of laser hair removal still makes it the hair removal method of choice for many providers, for treating large areas of the body.
What affects the cost of electrolysis?
A variety of factors can affect the cost of electrolysis hair removal, including:
1) The size of the treatment area
Electrolysis usually works best on small areas of the body, like the upper lip, chin, and other facial hair. But it can also be used on larger areas, like the bikini line and legs—either as an initial treatment or to remove hair that's been left behind after laser hair removal (which usually removes about 70% of unwanted hair).
As you might expect, larger areas take longer to treat each individual hair, which can have a major impact on your electrolysis costs.
2) The number of treatment sessions you need
Electrolysis sessions can extend over a period of months, or even years. Hair grows in cycles, and it can require a series of weekly or biweekly treatment sessions to catch hair at the right point in the cycle to destroy the hair follicle with an electrical current. Once a follicle is destroyed, that hair is permanently removed.
Most certified electrologists offer a complimentary consultation, as well as a test treatment. After assessing things like the thickness and texture of the hair, as well as the size of the treatment area, they will create a personalized treatment plan that estimates the number of sessions you'll need, as well as your total cost estimate.
A single electrolysis treatment usually costs $25 and $100. At the very least, you'll need several sessions, but it can take a dozen or more treatments to clear an area.
Some providers offer a discounted rate on a package of multiple treatment sessions, if you pay upfront.
3) Your provider's level of experience
It's wise not to choose an electrologist based solely on cost. When performed incorrectly, the treatment is associated with side effects like scarring and pigmentation problems.
Though the required education and training of an electrologist varies by state, and there's no federal oversight, electrology is an allied health profession, so you want to look for someone who's experienced, licensed, and has a strong track record of positive patient reviews.
4) Their practice location
The cost of electrolysis is fairly consistent across the U.S., but you may find slight variations depending on who you choose and where they practice.
Prices in major cities like New York and LA may be higher than smaller cities or suburban areas, and the neighborhood can also play a role, as a portion of higher rents gets passed on to patients.
Is electrolysis covered by insurance?
Hair removal is generally considered an elective cosmetic procedure that doesn't qualify for insurance coverage, it's sometimes covered by insurance if it's being performed to treat a medical condition associated with hair growth.
It may also be covered as a gender affirmation procedure, for transgender women.
During your consultation, an experienced provider can advise you on whether you're likely to qualify for coverage and how to document a medical need.