What hurts more, laser or electrolysis?

Author: Isaias Gleason  |  Last update: Thursday, August 14, 2025

Yadav. “Electrolysis is effective on patients of all hair colors and all skin tones.” Unfortunately, electrolysis is typically more painful than laser hair removal. It's very concentrated energy and it can create a stinging sensation, even if you've been treated with numbing cream beforehand.

What is the most painful hair removal method?

Epilating

But the thing is, epilating HURTS, especially at first. Many people report that over time, treated hairs get thinner and your skin gets used to it, but it's often reported to be one of the most (if not THE most) painful methods of hair removal.

Where is the most painful area for electrolysis?

Under and near the nose is the single most sensitive area for electrolysis on the face. I also had electrolysis on my genitals prior to SRS and every zap in that area hurt much more than the any facial electrolysis. It hurts to be beautiful.

Do celebrities get laser or electrolysis?

Electrolysis- This hair removal technique is also common among celebrities for it's permanent hair removal solution. It's quick, economical and leaves no ingrown hairs. Whatever hair removal method celebrities choose, they make sure that their appearance wouldn't disappoint their fans or make bad headlines either!

What is a downside to electrolysis?

Electrolysis Cons

It's a time-consuming procedure requiring multiple sessions. Skin discoloration is a possibility. The electricity in the device can actually destroy the capillaries in the surrounding areas. It can be very painful.

Permanent Hair Removal: Electrolysis vs. Laser

Does electrolysis hurt as much as laser?

How painful is electrolysis versus laser hair removal? Electrolysis is very painful as compared to laser hair removal. For most people, today's methods of hair removal don't hurt but electrolysis does hurt. Electrolysis removes the individual hairs from the body that's why causes a lot of pain.

What is the main disadvantage of electrolysis?

It's good for sensitive areas of the body, like the face or bikini line. The main disadvantage to electrolysis is the length of time needed to achieve permanent hair removal.

What do the Kardashians use for hair removal?

So which laser hair removal systems do the Kardashian siblings love to use? For at-home laser removal, Kim Kardshian swears by the TRIA Hair Removal Laser device. On the other hand, Khloe Kardashian and Kylie Jenner both visit professional laser clinic Sev Laser for their Candela GentleMax Pro.

What lasts longer laser or electrolysis?

You'll see full results from laser hair removal in just a few months. Electrolysis requires more and longer sessions, with full results seen in closer to 18 months; those results, however, last longer and require fewer touch-ups.

Do people ever regret laser hair removal?

While laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth, it doesn't always eliminate it completely, and some may still require occasional touch-ups. Skin reactions can also play a role in feelings of regret, although this is rare when the procedure is done correctly.

What is the least painful electrolysis?

Thermolysis is one of the fastest and least painful types of electrolysis hair removal. This method uses an alternating current that moves back and forth between the poles of the probe. The current is lower in intensity than galvanic electrolysis, and more hair regrowth may occur between visits.

Can you do electrolysis on pubic hair?

MtF genital electrolysis is a pubic hair removal process and is the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal.

How expensive is electrolysis hair removal?

Electrolysis Cost

For a full body treatment, you're looking at roughly $35 to $100 per hour. Because each hair is treated one at a time, it takes many sessions. You might spend 15 to 30 hours in total. This means the full cost could be anywhere from $525 to $3,000.

How to make electrolysis less painful?

If you know you have a lower tolerance for pain and are worried about feeling pain during your treatment, we recommend taking an anti-inflammatory pain reliever about 30 minutes to an hour before your appointment. Before the treatment we also treat the area with a mild numbing agent to help manage any other pain.

How many hairs can be removed in one electrolysis session?

How Much Hair Can Be Removed in One Session? Electrolysis damages roughly 35% of hair per session — the amount may be lower or higher depending on your hair type. An electrologist may be able to eliminate soft hair quicker than coarse hair since the former is easier to destroy.

Why do I find laser hair removal so painful?

Darker hair absorbs more laser energy, which can sometimes translate to more discomfort. 2. Treatment area – Sensitivity can also vary depending on the area being treated. Sensitive areas such as the bikini line, face, and back tend to be more painful compared to less sensitive areas like the legs or arms.

Why do people get laser instead of electrolysis?

For most people, laser hair removal is better than electrolysis because it's faster, cheaper, less painful, and requires less downtime.

How much more painful is electrolysis than laser?

Electrolysis can be likened to having a tattoo—it stings or prickles. Many people get around this by taking an over-the-counter painkiller an hour or so before treatment. Applying ice packs afterward can reduce any post-treatment discomfort. Laser treatment is akin to having a rubber band snapped against your skin.

Should I get laser or electrolysis first?

You do not want to have both electrolysis and laser done on the same area of your body at the same time; however, some people start their hair removal process with laser, wait a few months to see what growth remains, and finish the process with electrolysis.

Do celebrities get laser hair removal or electrolysis?

Moreover, it offers a more efficient solution than electrolysis, which targets individual hairs and can be time-consuming. For celebrities seeking quick, effective, and long-lasting hair removal, laser technology is the clear choice.

What does Jennifer Lopez use for her hair?

And I've been using it ever since.” Jennifer Lopez applying minoxidil to her scalp. Minoxidil is a vasodilator that is commonly used topically to treat thinning hair and hair loss. First introduced in 1979, it was initially used as an oral medication for high blood pressure.

What does Cardi B use for hair?

One of the most important steps of that routine for the chart-topping rapper is the ingredients: avocado, argan oil, mayonnaise, black castor oil, olive oil, two eggs, a banana, and honey.

Why is electrolysis not popular?

Electrolysis is not as popular as laser hair removal for a few reasons: Longer Treatment Time: As mentioned, treating each hair follicle individually makes electrolysis take much longer. Laser hair removal often takes 10 minutes or less for smaller areas.

What is electrolysis weakness?

Weak electrolytes are electrolytes that do not fully dissociate into ions in solution and only partially ionize in solution (roughly 1-10%).

Who should avoid electrolysis?

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments: If you are undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, electrolysis is not recommended. These treatments weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infection. Pregnant women: Electrolysis is not recommended during pregnancy.

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