Electrolysis vs Laser for facial hair removal: What's the difference?What’s the best choice for you?

Considering electrolysis or laser for facial hair removal? Learn the benefits, risks, and results—plus what to do if laser has made hair worse.

Looking for a permanent solution to facial hair?

If you're exploring long-term hair removal, chances are you've come across two leading options: laser hair removal and electrolysis.

At ElectroGlow Studio, I had two calls yesterday from clients who are unsure about which is right for them. So I thought it would be a good idea to write a post with more information to help you decide how to best treat your unwanted facial hair.

Laser hair removal: The basics

Laser hair removal works by using light to heat and damage the hair follicle. It can lead to long-lasting reduction in hair growth, especially for people with light skin and dark hair (note the words ‘lasting reduction’ not permanent removal). Laser hair removal is not suitable, for people with very light or blonde, red, grey, or white hair. This is because the laser targets melanin, the pigment in hair, and these hair colours lack sufficient melanin to be effectively targeted.

Benefits of laser hair removal (body):

- Faster on large areas (think - legs, bikini line or back etc)

- Less painful than waxing for many people

- Can significantly reduce hair over time

Laser - risks to consider especially for the face:

- Not suitable for light, red, grey, or very fine hair

- In some cases, laser can increase hair growth—especially on the face/ neck - Paradoxical Hypertrichosis

- May not work well on darker skin tones unless correct settings and equipment are used

- Not permanent—maintenance sessions are usually required

Electrolysis: The gold standard for permanent hair removal

Electrolysis is a highly precise method that uses a small electrical current to destroy the hair follicle at its root. Unlike laser, it doesn’t rely on pigment, so it works on all hair colours and all skin tones.

Unlike laser, electrolysis doesn’t rely on pigment, so it works on all hair colours and all skin tones.

Benefits of electrolysis for facial hair:

- FDA-approved as the only permanent hair removal method

- Works on all hair types - light, grey, red, and fine hair

- Ideal for delicate facial areas like the chin, upper lip, cheeks, and jawline

- Can correct or remove hair stimulated by previous laser treatments

What to know:

- Electrolysis is precise —each hair is treated individually

- Multiple sessions required, especially for dense hair growth

- Any discomfort is typically mild and manageable, some people feel a brief pinch or heat (some clients even fall asleep while being treated)

Should I choose laser or electrolysis for facial hair?

Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:

Feature/Risk	Laser hair removal (face)	Electrolysis (face)
Works on all hair colours?	❌ No	✅ Yes
Works on all skin tones?	⚠️ With correct settings	✅ Yes
Permanent results?	❌ Not guaranteed	✅ Yes (FDA-approved)
Ideal for facial hair?	⚠️ Use with caution	✅ Especially effective
Can increase hair growth?	⚠️ Rarely, but possible	❌ No
Precision for small areas?	❌ Not ideal	✅ Excellent

Paradoxical hair growth after laser: A real concern

While laser is a safe and effective option for many people, it is well documented that some clients have experienced increased hair growth on the face after laser treatment—a reaction known as paradoxical hypertrichosis.

💔 When hope turns to despair

Many people seek out facial hair removal to feel more confident. When laser doesn’t help—or worse, makes it worse—the emotional effects can be truly devastating.

Common themes on public forums for paradoxical hypertrichosis:

• Devastation and despair after unexpected hair growth

• Self-consciousness and low self-esteem

• Frustration and anger, especially if they weren’t warned about this risk

• Mistrust in the industry

• Helplessness and hopelessness, especially when the hair becomes thicker or more noticeable

One reviewer described writing through tears, expressing deep regret over ever starting laser hair removal on their face. They felt stuck with the results and wished they could undo it.

Another reviewer described how the sudden increase in hair on their chin and upper lip had crushed their confidence, leaving them withdrawn and avoiding social interaction altogether.

If you’ve noticed thicker, darker, or more widespread hair after laser, you’re not alone. It’s more common than many realise—particularly on hormonal areas like the chin or jawline.

Electrolysis offers a permanent and effective solution for these cases. Get in touch for a free consultation to discuss how electrolysis can help you.

Why clients choose ElectroGlow Studio

At ElectroGlow Studio, I specialise in electrolysis for facial hair removal and am helping clients achieve smooth, lasting results.

I can work with:

- People with PCOS

- Clients who’ve experienced paradoxical growth

- Those transitioning and seeking a long-term solution

- Women navigating perimenopause or menopause

- Anyone who’s tried everything and wants something that truly lasts

Ready to find out what's right for you?

Every skin is different. Every client is unique. I tailor my treatment to you, and your needs.

If you're considering facial hair removal, book a personalised consultation—I'll take the time to assess your needs, answer your questions honestly, and guide you towards a solution that will work for you.

👉 Book your consultation now

👉 Learn more about electrolysis

Have you experienced facial hair growth after laser? Got questions about electrolysis? Get in touch—I'm here to help 🩷