Haven Spa NYC

Take a little time for yourself.

250 Mercer Street New York, NY 10012

212.343.3515

Since opening the doors to Haven in 1998, our expert staff has been dedicated to offering carefully selected treatments and products that offer real solutions to address and correct a myriad of concerns. Whether someone comes in for routine beauty care or a special indulgence, they will leave feeling replenished and nurtured by our caring professionals. Come in and lounge on our comfy couches and enjoy our stress-free and hospitable environment at your leisure.

What are the differences between electrolysis and laser hair removal?

  • Both electrolysis and laser hair removal target the root of the hair to cauterize the blood supply and kill the hair. During electrolysis, a very fine needle is inserted into the hair follicle and an electric current is delivered to the root of the hair. Laser works by targeting the pigment in the hair in contrast to the color of the surrounding skin.

  • Electrolysis works on any hair color, unlike laser which does not work on light blonde, white, gray, or red hair.

  • While both modalities require the hair to be in an active growth phase, with electrolysis the hair needs to be above the surface of the skin and long enough for a tweezer to grasp. With laser you need to shave within 24 hours of your service so that there is no hair above the skin surface.

  • Electrolysis treats the hair one by one, so it takes a good amount of time to treat large areas. Laser can treat very large areas in a very short period of time.

  • Both types of services require more than one treatment in order to work. With both some people respond more quickly than others.

  • Electrolysis is the only permanent form of hair removal as recognized by the FDA. Laser is permanent hair reduction with a typical expectation of 65 to 90% removal.

  • When getting electrolysis treatments, we recommend that you avoid sun exposure for 48 hours before and after your service. With laser, we recommend at least two weeks before and after.

Click here for Electrolysis pricing

Click here for Laser Hair Removal pricing

Pre-treatment care for electrolysis:

  • If you are going to be treating sun-exposed areas, apply sunblock each morning for one month before treatment and avoid sun exposure for at least 48 hours prior to your treatment.

  • Do not bleach, pluck, thread, or wax the hairs that you want treated for six weeks prior to receiving electrolysis. Cutting, shaving, and trimming are all acceptible.

  • If you have a history of herpes or cold sores in the treatment area, you may need antiviral medication. Begin using this medication one day before treatment and continue for one week after treatment.

  • The hairs that you want to be treated need to be a stubble length that is long enough to grab with a tweezer. Approximately 2-3 days of growth after shaving.

  • Stop using Retinoids at least one week prior to treatment.

  • Arrive with the area clean and free of makeup or any lotions.

Post-treatment care for electrolysis:

  • Treat the area gently for a few days. No exfoliation, retinols/retinoids, acids, or any other harsh products. Avoid heavy creams.

  • Avoid sun exposure for at least 48 hours after your treatment.

  • Avoid using makeup, strong soaps, scrubs, or anything abrasive on the area until skin returns to normal.

  • Do not pick, rub, or scratch the area and avoid touching the area completely (especially with unwashed hands.)

  • Ice can help bring down any swelling.

  • A salt and warm water compress applied for 20 minutes post treatment can help promote healing.

  • Call us with any quesions or concerns regarding your skin or the treatment.

  • Witch Hazel and/or antibiotic ointment can be applied twice per day for 48 hours to help promote healing.