When it comes to removing unwanted hair, there are many options available. Not only can hair removal be done at home, but it can also be done in a salon or spa.
While some methods such as waxing and tweezing are quite common, electrolysis is a more advanced type of hair removal that requires special training and equipment.
However, hair removal by electrolysis is a safe and effective way to get rid of unwanted hair. Neither waxing nor tweezing can effectively remove hair for several reasons.
On the one hand, these methods remove the hair from the root, which results in a regrowth cycle.
This is why waxing and tweezing are so expensive and time-consuming. On the other hand, electrolysis is a much more targeted method.
Electroporation is a process that only affects the hair follicles.
Electrolysis needs to be performed at a hair follicle, and not at the root. The treatment targets the hair shaft, which is much easier to remove.
What Causes Unwanted Hair Growth?
Hair growth is the result of factors like heredity and hormone levels. Hair removal by electrolysis may be an option for getting rid of hair where it’s not desired such as on a woman’s upper lip, chin, or bikini line.
What Is Electrolysis?
Electrolysis is a form of hair removal performed by a licensed esthetician or dermatologist. It is a very effective method that targets hair follicles very close to the skin.
There are many different methods one can use to perform electrolysis, however, the most common one is called “iontophoresis.”
Electrolysis works by sending an electric current into the follicle of the hair. This causes the follicle to rupture, causing the hair to fall out.
There are different types of electric current used to treat various areas of the body, but in general, the current penetrates about two to three millimeters into the skin.
How Does Electrolysis Remove Hair?
Electrolysis works because it “sears” the follicle onto the skin. The follicle is permanently damaged, which causes the hair to fall out.
As for bacteria, there’s no risk of spreading bacteria from one person to another because the current is not transmitted from one person to the next.
During electrolysis, the licensed professional applies a small device on the skin that emits a low electric current.
The device is connected to a small machine that is plugged into a wall outlet. The professional collects the electric current through the machine, then uses a needle to inject the current into the follicle of the hair.
There are different methods to perform hair removal by electrolysis depending on the area of the body being treated.
How To Perform Hair Removal By Electrolysis
There are many methods to achieve hair removal by electrolysis, but the most common is the “iontophoresis” method which targets hair follicles very close to the skin.
During iontophoresis, the licensed professional uses a small machine to apply a low electric current to the skin, collecting the current through a machine that is plugged into a wall outlet.
The person receiving the iontophoresis treatment wears a piece of conductive fabric on the skin. The fabric is usually made of nylon or Lycra. The fabric must be conductive because the current is transferred from the professional to the person receiving the treatment.
Myths About Electrolysis!
Electrolysis Is Very Painful:
Today’s methods usually don’t cause a lot of pain. However, it can be uncomfortable at times, and your doctor may give you an anesthetic cream to help with this.
Temporary Hair Removal Methods Can Be More Effective Than Permanent Options:
Chemical depilatories are often used to remove body hair. These products contain irritating chemicals that can be time-consuming and messy.
Likewise, bleaches containing harsh chemicals do little to disguise dark hair and may even discolor the skin; waxing is another temporary method of removing hair that can be painful, costly, or difficult in some cases (such as home use).
For those who want a more permanent solution, there are also electrolysis devices available for at-home use which tend not to work well on someone who is inexperienced with them.
Pros Of Hair Removal By Electrolysis
Electrolysis is highly effective and very safe. It is a customized method that targets the hair follicle very close to the skin.
The method doesn’t spread bacteria because there’s no transmission of electricity from one person to another. So, electrolysis is suitable for people with sensitive skin.
Electrolysis is much more affordable than other forms of hair removal. On average, electrolysis costs $100/treatment, while other modern methods of hair removal cost around $1,500-$3,000.
Hair removal by electrolysis is a good option for people with long-term hair growth. It is also ideal for women who are breastfeeding.
Cons Of Hair Removal By Electrolysis
There is a possibility of skin irritation during the treatment. However, most people experience only slight redness after the treatment.
The results of electrolysis last for about 12 to 18 months, after which time you will need to undergo another treatment session.
Electrolysis is not suitable for people with light skin or dark hair. It also can’t be used on eyebrows, facial hair, or skin that is lightly treated with makeup.
Electrolysis is not a permanent method of hair removal. It can last for a few years, but it is not a reliable method of hair removal.
Conclusion About Hair Removal By Electrolysis
Electrolysis is a great modern method of hair removal. It is highly effective and safe, and it also doesn’t spread bacteria.
However, performing hair removal by electrolysis is not a permanent method of hair removal. There is also a chance that you may experience mild redness after the treatment.
The results last for a few years before you need to undergo another treatment session.