First of all, you must consider the fact that 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).

On the other hand, 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. Basically, the procedure is this: the clinician inserts a sterile needle into every hair follicle. A low-level electrical current kills the follicle. Its pain factor  is greater than the laser hair removal factor.

Number of sessions you may need:

1. 1. Laser hair removal: to give you an idea, a treatment generally takes about 15 minutes. Usually 4- 6 treatments are needed.
   2. Electrolysis: each hair follicle has to be individually treated for about one minute. Anywhere from 15 – 30 sessions are needed to get the best results.

You may also consider the pain factor in choosing. Laser hair removal feels like the sting of a bee, but, of course, it depends on people’s level of pain tolerance. Electrolysis is reportedly more painful than laser hair removal, but that’s also a quite subjective criteria.

Possible side effects ? Yes, on both. Laser hair removal has as the most common side effect a certain redness, but that’s actually a sign that all went well. Electrolysis, on the other hand, makes skin discolored if it’s done improperly.

In conclusion, if you have dark skin or light hair, you can’t rely on standard laser hair removal for safety issues or to give you optimal results on your face.

But if you have light skin and dark facial hair then you can choose between eitheroption. Laser is the generally the less expensive of the two and requires less time and treatments. Now all you have to do is choosing.