An Introduction to Hair Removal Electrolysis
Electrolysis is a proven, permanent method of hair removal that has been around since the late 19th century. It works by using a small electric current to destroy the growth centers of hair follicles. When performed correctly by a trained professional, electrolysis can permanently remove unwanted hair from almost all areas of the body.
How Electrolysis Hair Removal Works
Electrolysis takes advantage of the chemical reaction that occurs when an electric current is applied to the tissue around a hair follicle. The current damages the areas responsible for hair growth so hair cannot regrow. An electrolysis hair removal machine generates the low-level electric current and applies it via a fine probe inserted into the hair follicle.
Is Electrolysis Permanent Hair Removal?
Yes, electrolysis results in permanent hair removal by destroying hair follicle tissue responsible for regrowth. When performed properly, the full series of treatments should remove 100% of unwanted hairs with no chance of the hairs ever growing back again.
How Many Electrolysis Treatments Are Needed?
Most people require between 6-15 treatments spaced 3-8 weeks apart for complete permanent hair removal from one area. Time between treatments allows damaged hair follicles to shed, then electrolysis can destroy the regrowth until no hairs remain.
What to Expect During an Electrolysis Session
Here is a step-by-step overview of what typically occurs during a hair removal electrolysis session:
- The treatment area is cleaned and sterilized
- Your technician inserts a tiny sterile probe into each hair follicle
- Electricity is briefly applied to damage the follicle so hair cannot regrow
- Your technician gently removes each treated hair with forceps
- Steps 2-4 are repeated until the full area has been treated
- Soothing lotion may be applied at the end of treatment
Does Electrolysis Hurt?
Most patients feel some minor discomfort or a mild pinching sensation during electrolysis treatments. This has sometimes given electrolysis an exaggerated reputation for being painful. However, there are measures your technician can take to maximize comfort:
- Using thin probes that minimize insertion discomfort
- Adjusting electrical intensity to the lowest effective setting
- Applying a topical anesthetic to numb the skin 15 minutes before treatment
- Having an experienced technician who works quickly and accurately
What is the Electrolysis Aftercare Routine?
Properly caring for skin after electrolysis helps minimize redness, swelling, and other reactions. Typical aftercare steps include:
- Applying ice packs to reduce swelling
- Gently cleansing the area with mild soap to prevent infection
- Using over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to ease skin irritation
- Avoiding makeup, exercise, hot tubs, steam rooms, and saunas for 24 hours
How Much Does Electrolysis Hair Removal Cost?
The cost per electrolysis session often ranges from $50 to $100 depending on the size of the area being treated. Considering most patients need 6-15 sessions spaced weeks apart for full permanent hair removal, the total expense can be several hundred to over $1000 dollars to treat one body part.
Larger areas like full legs or backs cost more per treatment making the cumulative expense higher. Just a few small facial areas like the upper lip requires fewer total treatments for complete hair removal so is more affordable.
Types of Electrolysis Methods and Machines
There are three main electrolysis techniques used to destroy hair follicle tissue. Each requires specialized electrolysis hair removal equipment tailored to the method:
1. Galvanic Electrolysis
Galvanic electrolysis was the first electrolysis method invented and uses a direct current to generate chemical reactions that damage the hair follicles. It produces reliable permanent hair removal but can only treat one hair at a time.
2. Thermolysis Electrolysis
Thermolysis electrolysis uses a high frequency alternating current to generate heat and thermolysis the hair follicle tissue. It can damage multiple hairs at once but requires more training to avoid skin damage.
3. Blend Electrolysis
Blend electrolysis combines galvanic and thermolysis techniques during the same session. This produces permanent hair removal more efficiently than either method alone. It is considered the gold standard technique.
Choosing an Electrolysis Machine
Electrolysis devices vary widely in quality and price. Machines typically cost electrolysis technicians $500 to $2000 depending on the durability, precision, and features.
Here are key factors to consider when investing in electrolysis equipment:
Power Output Customization
The electricity level should be adjustable down to 1/100th of a milliampere to safely treat all hair and skin types.
Compatibility With Modalities
Make sure the device accommodates galvanic, thermolysis, and blend treatments so all techniques are available.
Probe Quality
Medical-grade stainless steel probes should come in varieties like ultra-fine 0.2mm for precision insertion with less discomfort.
Safety Features
Choose equipment with safetyGND technology, output voltage monitoring, and surge protection to prevent accidental electrical spikes.
User Interface
An intuitive display with preset treatment settings, foot pedal operation, probe detection, and error messages improves ease of use.
Who is a Candidate for Electrolysis?
The vast majority of people with unwanted hair are suitable candidates for electrolysis hair removal. This includes both men and women seeking to eliminate facial or body hair.
Some common reasons people get electrolysis include:
- Removing dark upper lip hair and chin hair on women
- Eliminating mens thick back and chest hair
- Clearing bikini line hair and underarm stubble for convenience and comfort
Those with white, blonde, or very fine hair have hair follicles that are harder for electrolysis devices to treat. People prone to scarring and hyperpigmentation may also not be ideal candidates.
When is Electrolysis Recommended?
While electrolysis works on all hair colors, it is most efficient at permanently removing thick dark hair. People who have completed laser hair removal treatments but still experience light stubble regrowth later are excellent candidates to finally eliminate every trace of remaining hairs with electrolysis.
The Bottom Line on Electrolysis and Finding a Provider
Electrolysis is the tried and true way to achieve complete permanent removal of undesirable hair using an electrolysis hair removal machine. The method has years of clinical experience proving efficacy.
When seeking an electrolysis technician, make sure they received comprehensive electrolysis certification and training. Confirm the treatment facility is properly licensed and maintains stringent hygiene standards to minimize risk of infection.
With an experienced technician, typically between 6-15 spaced out treatments are needed before all hair is fully treated and unable to regrow. While there is some mild discomfort involved, there are also numbing options to improve tolerance of procedures.
Over the long run, getting professional electrolysis hair removal leads to time and cost savings from no longer needing temporary solutions like shaving, waxing, threading, etc. The ability to conveniently and comfortably go hair-free with zero irritation or ingrown hairs makes electrolysis ultimately worthwhile for many.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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