Electrolysis vs IPL/Laser for unwanted facial hair: What’s the real difference?

Unwanted facial hair can affect confidence and comfort, whether it’s a few persistent chin hairs or a more noticeable area of growth. With so many options available, it can be hard to know which treatments truly work long-term. As a beauty therapist who specialises in electrolysis, over the years I often met clients who have tried IPL or laser with mixed results, only to discover that electrolysis offers the lasting solution they’ve been searching for. 

Let’s explore the key differences between electrolysis and IPL/laser so you can make an informed, confident choice. 

How does each treatment work?

Electrolysis works by treating each hair follicle individually with a fine probe that delivers  minimal current to permanently disable the follicle's ability to regrow hair. Once fully treated that follicle will never produce a hair again. 

IPL (intense pulsed light) and laser hair removal on the other hand, work by targeting the pigment in the hair using light energy. This damages the follicle and reduces future growth, however it does not permanently remove every hair. The results can vary depending on hair colour, skin tone, and hormonal factors. 

Hair colour and skin type matter 

One of the biggest differences between the two treatments is who they’re suitable for:
- Electrolysis works on all hair colours, all skin types and all areas of the face and body. Whether the hair is light, dark, coarse or fine, it can be effectively treated. 

- IPL and laser rely on pigment, meaning they’re less effective (or sometimes not recommended) for light, red, blinder, grey or white hair, or on deeper skin tones where pigment contrast is low.

For many clients with lighter or hormonal facial hair, electrolysis is the only option that can truly remove it for good. 

Results and Commitment 

Electrolysis requires a series of sessions to treat all hairs during their active growth cycle. Because electrolysis is most commonly used to treat unwanted hormonal hair growth, we can have these hormones battling against us during treatment. For example a woman with PCOS (poly cystic ovarian syndrome) will likely require more sessions to achieve a permanent result than someone with level hormones. With this said, once the area is fully treated, maintenance is not needed, giving a truly permanent result. 

IPL and laser can offer faster initial coverage on larger areas, but the results are usually reduction rather than removal. Hair may regrow over time, especially with hormonal changes. The type of heat produced by IPL and laser can sometimes stimulate new hair growth in hormonally sensitive areas, such as the chin, neck or sides of face, rather than reduce it. This reaction, known as paradoxical hypertrichosis can be frustrating for those seeking permanent hair removal. 

Comfort and Care

There's no point in sugar coating it here, both treatments are not comfortable. There is a sensation often described as a quick warmth or sting. With electrolysis, sessions are often more time consuming because of having to treat each follicle individually. I always take a gentle approach to electrolysis to ensure comfort. Only high quality products and equipment are used and there is the additional offering of topical numbing for those wanting to relax throughout. Sterex provides soothing aftercare to help your skin recover beautifully. Many clients describe electrolysis as feeling more precise, with each session bringing visible, permanent progress. 

So which is right for you? 

If your goal is permanent hair removal, especially for facial or hormonal hair growth, electrolysis is the gold standard. It’s suitable for all hair colours, all skin types, and delivers confidence that lasts.
If you are looking for general hair reduction on larger body areas and have darker hair, IPL or laser will be a good option for you.
I offer honest, personalised guidance to help you choose the best solution for your skin, your comfort and your long-term goals. 

If I see you at Solace for an electrolysis consultation but you are better suited to IPL or laser first, I will always provide a referral to a trusted, quality therapist who does IPL or laser to a high standard that you can trust.