Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal: what’s the difference

If you’re considering long-term hair removal, you’ve likely come across two popular options: electrolysis and laser hair removal. While both treatments reduce unwanted hair, they work in very different ways. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between electrolysis and laser hair removal, helping you make an informed decision about the best method for your skin and hair type.

How does electrolysis and laser hair removal work?

Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method for permanent hair REMOVAL. It works by inserting a tiny probe into each hair follicle and destroying it with an electrical current. Once the hair is treated, the hair is gently removed with tweezers. For electrolysis to be effective, the hair must be grown and long enough to grasp with tweezers. If the hair is too short or has been removed at the root (such as with waxing or plucking), there won’t be anything to treat. That’s why it’s important to let the hair grow before your session and hair removal methods such as waxing, threading or plucking must stop! Electrolysis is effective on all skin tones and hair colours.

Laser hair removal uses a concentrated beam of light to target the pigment in hair follicles. The heat damages the follicle, slowing down the regrowth. Unlike electrolysis, which treats hairs one by one, laser works by treating multiple hairs at once, making it a faster option for larger areas. However, because laser targets pigment, it can be less effective on very light, red or grey hairs. Before a laser session, you’re typically asked to shave the treatment area about 24 hours beforehand. This is to allow the laser to target the follicles, not the hair above the skin. Over time, hair becomes finer and significantly reduces but laser hair removal is considered hair REDUCTION rather than permanent REMOVAL.

Key Differences: Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal

Performance – Electrolysis is permanent, while laser hair removal provides long-term reduction but not complete removal.

Hair Colour Compatibility – Electrolysis works on all hair colours, including blonde, red and white. Laser hair removal is most effective on dark hair and does not work well on blond, red or white hair.

Treatment Speed – Laser hair removal is much faster because it targets multiple hairs at once. Electrolysis is slower since each hair follicle is treated individually.

Sessions Required – Electrolysis requires many sessions because each hair is treated individually, but once treated, the hair is gone forever. Laser hair removal can require fewer sessions to see results but may need occasional maintenance treatments.

Side Effects – Electrolysis has low risks but may cause temporary redness, swelling, pitting and hyper-pigmentation. Laser hair removal has risks of pigmentation changes, burns and paradoxical hair growth.