There are many different types of cosmetic procedures that we may consider having done. One of those procedures is the removal of hair and aside from shaving or using a cream, we can have it completed permanently if we go through a certain procedure. There are different options available but two of the most popular are electrolysis and laser hair removal. In this article, you will see the difference between the two and understand why electrolysis is the clear winner when you compare them side-by-side. First of all, it is important to recognize that not everybody is going to be a candidate for laser hair removal. In fact, it is only for people who have dark hair and light skin because if you have dark skin, the laser is likely going to burn you. In addition, the laser targets the darker colored pigment in the hair so it is not going to affect individuals with light hair. On the other hand, electrolysis can be used by anyone who wants to have hair removal completed, regardless of their skin color or the color of their hair. Electrolysis affects the follicle, not the pigment. When you compare the length of the sessions, you’ll see that they are somewhat similar but laser hair removal may have a slight edge in this particular category. If you have laser hair removal completed, you can expect to spend about 15 minutes in the office and you may need to come back for additional treatments. Electrolysis may take up to 30 minutes and you will likely need 15 or more sessions. When you compare everything else side-by-side, however, you see why electrolysis is still the clear winner. Sooner or later, the question of cost is going to come up. Electrolysis is clearly the way to go if you are on a budget but even if you are spending less, you are still benefiting from it. You will likely pay about $45 for an electrolysis session that treats a smaller area. On the other hand, you will pay $200 or more for the same treatment when using laser hair removal. Now we come down to an area that many people dread considering, the pain associated with the process. Laser hair removal is considered to be one of the more painful cosmetic processes and some people even say it feels as if somebody is snapping a rubber band against the skin and heating it. Electrolysis also has a certain stinging sensation but it is much less than laser hair removal. One other consideration is the possibility for side effects. Laser hair removal does have some side effects but it can also be dangerous, which certainly needs to be considered. It is possible to experience scarring and you may even experience some facial hair growth after the laser treatment has been completed. On the other hand, electrolysis is relatively free of side effects, other than a slight possibility for skin discoloring if the improper method is used.