Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal: What To Know

Unwanted face and body hair shouldn’t be an ongoing battle, and neither should choosing your method of long-lasting hair removal. In this guide, we’ll compare electrolysis vs laser hair removal, so you can make an informed decision with confidence!

How does electrolysis work?

Thanks to specialized training requirements, longer time commitments, and higher prices, electrolysis specialists tend to be less common than laser hair removal practitioners. Here’s an overview of this lesser-known treatment option: 

Mechanism used

Electrolysis works by inserting a very thin electric probe into each individual hair follicle. This probe delivers a mild electric current, deactivating the follicle with heat, a chemical reaction, or both. 

Effectiveness

While laser treatments have developed a reputation as “permanent,” electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method for removing hair permanently. It’s also effective for all hair colors and types, including thin, fine peach fuzz and blonde, red, and gray hair. 

Treatment areas

Electrolysis is generally considered safe and effective for hair throughout the face and body, including: 

• Eyebrows

• Upper lip

• Chin

• Beard

• Neck

• Underarms

• Bikini area

• Arms and legs

• Hands and feet

• Fingers and toes

Number of sessions

You might be wondering if electrolysis comes with a catch. The answer is yes. Because this technique treats individual hair follicles, the process can be long and painstaking, especially for larger treatment areas. Some people may require 30 or more sessions to remove all unwanted hair. 

Costs

Depending on your target treatment zone, you can expect to pay between $30 and $200 per session. Remember, the cost per appointment may be lower for electrolysis vs laser hair removal, but you will generally pay more for electrolysis over the course of the treatment series.

Related: How To Prepare for Laser Hair Removal

Is laser hair removal preferable?

Although electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method for permanent hair reduction, laser hair removal delivers long-lasting results much faster. Let’s take a closer look at phototherapy treatments to find out why some people prefer laser hair removal vs electrolysis. 

Technology used

Regardless of the type of laser device used, the machine will eliminate hair by targeting melanin, the pigment that gives your skin and hair their color. Through a process called thermolysis, the concentrated light energy heats hair follicles, deactivating them and preventing future growth. 

Treatment areas and frequency

When it comes to size and speed, laser hair removal is the clear winner over electrolysis. Despite the targeted nature of lasers, this light energy still treats more follicles at once than electrolysis, making it ideal for larger zones, like the legs, arms, and pubic area. 

Additionally, laser requires substantially fewer sessions vs electrolysis. Most people achieve permanent hair reduction in six to ten appointments spaced four to eight weeks apart, plus occasional touchups to maintain results.

Who can get laser hair removal?

Phototherapy treatments like laser and IPL are not effective for light-colored or very fine hair, and some devices may not be suitable for darker skin tones. This is because of the risk for side effects like burns, scars, and hyperpigmentation.

However, newer technologies have expanded the clientele for laser treatments, safely treating clients with a wider range of skin tones and hair colors. Some devices can even be calibrated to optimize results for your unique complexion. 

Costs and effectiveness

As we mentioned, electrolysis tends to be more expensive than laser hair removal per session, but an entire laser treatment series should be more cost-effective than comprehensive hair removal with electrolysis.

At Silken Aesthetics, the cost ranges from approximately $75 for a small area, such as the upper lip, to $575 per full-body laser session. Most people achieve 70% to 90% reduction in hair after a full course of laser treatments.

Read more: How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?

Should you choose electrolysis vs laser hair removal?

So, how can you decide between electrolysis vs laser hair removal? Here’s a guide to help you determine the best option for your needs: 

What’s your hair and skin type?

If you have darker hair and a lighter skin tone, there’s a good chance that laser hair removal will be effective. However, clients hoping to eliminate fine peach fuzz or strands without much melanin may need to opt for electrolysis.

What’s your pain tolerance?

The sensation experienced during electrolysis is often described as a sting or pinprick, which is generally manageable in small treatment areas. But this discomfort can intensify as the size of the target area expands. Laser hair removal may feel like the snap of a rubber band against the skin.

What’s your budget?

Your budget will also help determine whether you choose electrolysis vs laser hair removal. Consider consulting with an expert in each technique to gain a better understanding of how many sessions you may need to achieve lasting results.

What areas are you treating?

In most cases, laser hair removal is more practical than electrolysis for large treatment areas, but electrolysis can be a good option for small, precise facial zones like the upper lip or brows.

What results are you looking for?

Men and women who want to eradicate unwanted hair for good without the need for follow-up sessions will only achieve permanent results with electrolysis. That being said, even if the targeted hair follicles never produce new strands, your body may generate new follicles in response to hormonal changes.

This means you may still require additional treatments down the line to stay completely bare. With laser hair removal, there’s a risk of dormant follicles generating new hairs and new follicles forming. But quick and easy annual touch-ups can keep them in check indefinitely.

Related: Laser Hair Removal in Orlando: What To Expect

Learn more about your laser hair removal options at Silken Aesthetics!

Sick of waxing or shaving at home? Then put down the wax strips, ditch the razor, and discover the transformative power of laser hair removal for yourself! Silken Aesthetics can help you achieve permanent hair reduction with a minimal risk of irritation and ingrown hairs. Book a consultation today to get started!