Permanent hair removal by laser treatment is one of the most promoted “permanent hair removal” options on the internet. Unfortunately, laser hair removal is not yet FDA approved, nor is it proven to be as effective for permanent hair removal as electrolysis is.
Additionally, permanent hair removal using laser treatment is not not risk free. Depending on your skin type and skin condition, you may find that laser hair removal can leave unwanted scaring or pigmentation effects.
A brief comparison:
Laser: The mainstream laser unit can only be used on those with light skin and dark hair. It can burn those with dark skin and not give optimal results for people with light hair because the laser targets pigment (dark color). Advancement is being made in laser technology for those that don’t fit the light skin/dark hair profile using a combination of radio frequency and laser, however no laser treatment has yet been approved by the FDA for permanent hair removal.
Electrolysis: Can be used on anyone despite their skin or hair color because it attacks the hair follicle itself, and not the pigment in the hair
Pain Factor
Each person has a unique “pain tolerance”, so it is hard to tell any individual which method they will find more comfortable:
Laser is described by most as a sensation of a rubber band ‘snapping’ against your skin along with a heat sensation. Coarse, dark hair feels more of the burn. Thus, a man’s laser hair removal in the beard and mustache area will feel more painful than a woman’s lip, cheeks or chin.
Electrolysis: Electrolysis has been described as “a stinging and pricking sensation”, the level of “pain” depends on the electrologist and the equipment that is used.