Summary
Understanding Hair Growth and Why It Matters
What is Laser Hair Removal?
What is Electrolysis?
Which Treatment Should You Choose?
Combining Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis for Maximum Effectiveness
If you’re considering permanent hair removal, you’ve likely come across two of the most talked-about treatments: laser hair removal and electrolysis. But which one is right for you? And is one truly better than the other?
As a laser hair removal specialist and the owner of Cells Aesthetics in Brighton & Hove, I’ve helped countless clients navigate this decision. The truth is, both treatments have their place in a well-thought-out hair removal journey.
Let’s break it down, science-style, so you can make the best choice for your skin and hair type.
Understanding Hair Growth and Why It Matters
Before we compare the treatments, we need to talk about how hair grows—because that determines why neither laser nor electrolysis works in a single session.
Hair grows in three stages:
Anagen (Active Growth Phase): The best time for treatment! The hair is attached to the follicle and has direct access to the root, making it easier to destroy.
Catagen (Transition Phase): The hair stops growing, but the follicle hasn’t let go yet. Treatments are less effective at this stage.
Telogen (Resting Phase): The hair falls out naturally, but the follicle remains alive—meaning new hair will grow back.
Both laser and electrolysis only work on hair in the Anagen phase, which is why multiple sessions are needed to catch all the hairs at the right time.
What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal uses light energy to target melanin (pigment) in the hair. The laser heats the follicle, damaging it so that it can't grow back as thick or at all. You can read more about the science behind laser hair removal here.
Modern lasers, like the Soprano Titanium, are safe for all skin tones, unlike older laser systems that struggled with darker skin.
Best for:
✔ Larger areas (legs, arms, back)
✔ Darker, coarse hair
✔ Reducing hair growth significantly
What to Expect
✔ Quick treatments – A full-leg session takes about 30-45 minutes.
✔ Minimal discomfort – New lasers, like the Soprano Titanium, use cooling technology to keep the skin comfortable and pain-free.
✔ Multiple sessions needed – Expect 6-8 sessions for best results.
✔ Reduction, not complete removal – Laser reduces hair permanently, but some fine regrowth can still happen over time.
What is Electrolysis?
Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal. It works by inserting a tiny probe into the follicle and using an electric current to destroy the hair root completely.
Since it doesn't rely on melanin, it works on all hair colours, including blonde, grey, and red—which laser hair removal can’t target effectively.
Best for:
✔ Small areas (upper lip, eyebrows, chin)
✔ Light or white hairs
✔ Individuals wanting 100% permanent removal
What to Expect
✔ One hair at a time – This is why it’s best for small areas like the face.
✔ More discomfort than laser – Since it treats each follicle individually, it can feel like a sharp pinch.
✔ Longer treatment course – You may need 15+ sessions for full clearance.
✔ Guaranteed permanent results – Hair won’t grow back at all once a follicle is fully treated.
Which Treatment Should You Choose?
Choosing between laser and electrolysis depends on:
Your hair colour – Dark hair? Laser works best. Light hair? Go for electrolysis.
Your treatment area – Laser is great for large areas, electrolysis is perfect for small patches.
Your pain tolerance – Laser is quicker and less painful than electrolysis.
Your patience – Laser is faster, while electrolysis takes longer, but laser is permanent reduction and electrolysis is permanent removal.
Combining Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis for Maximum Effectiveness
Many people don’t realise that you don’t have to choose just one method—a combination approach often gives the best results.
Why Use Both?
Laser for fast reduction – It quickly removes most dark, coarse hairs.
Electrolysis for stubborn regrowth and small areas – Perfect for blonde, grey, or fine hairs that laser can’t catch and small areas like eyebrows.
Great for hormonal hair – Conditions like PCOS or menopause often cause mixed hair growth, making a dual treatment plan ideal.
How to Combine the Two
Phase 1: Start with laser – Do 6-8 sessions to clear most of the unwanted hair.
Phase 2: Switch to electrolysis – Once laser has done its job, electrolysis can tidy up the remaining hairs (if needed).
Phase 3: Maintenance as needed – Over time, touch-ups may be required for hormonal changes or occasional strays.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
The best choice depends on your hair type, skin tone, pain tolerance, and goals:
✔️ Choose Laser Hair Removal if…
You have dark hair and lighter skin.
You want quick, efficient results with minimal discomfort.
You don’t mind occasional maintenance sessions.
✔️ Choose Electrolysis if…
You have white, blonde, or grey hair that laser won’t work on.
You want 100% permanent hair removal, even if it takes longer.
You’re okay with a higher pain level and more time commitment.
✔️ Best Option? Combine Both!
Laser to remove bulk hair quickly.
Electrolysis to permanently remove stubborn hair or small areas like eyebrows.
At Cells Aesthetics in Brighton & Hove, we specialise in personalised hair removal solutions, using cutting-edge technology like the Soprano Titanium to deliver science-backed, results-driven treatments.
If you’re unsure which method is right for you, book a free consultation with us—we’ll create a custom plan tailored to your skin and hair type for the best possible results!