What is Electrolysis?

Electrology is the science being used since 1875 of permanent hair removal. State-of-the-art technology has vastly improved the procedure.  However, the basic philosophy remains: treating the hair follicle one-by-one to eliminate the germinating cells responsible for hair growth.

How is it accomplished?

The individual hair follicle is being treated by inserting a very fine probe into its natural opening. A small amount of chemical or heat energy is then applied to destroy the hair growth cells.  This process destroys the regenerative ability of the hair follicle thus permanently eliminating the ability of the hair to grow.  Each hair follicle requires several treatments to completely destroy the potential for hair regrowth.  However, each individual is different and results vary.

 

Electrolysis- Frequently Asked Questions

Electrolysis has been around since 1875.  It is the only method approved by the FDA for true permanent removal of unwanted hair.  Regardless of the cause (heredity, metabolic, or hormonal conditions) electrolysis will permanently remove unwanted hair to reveal a glowing, confident you.

This is a tough question to answer because it varies between each client.  The amount of hair, methods used prior to electrolysis, genetics, hormones, nutrition, and health play a role in the time it takes of the destruction of germ cell.  I tell all my clients to expect a minimum of 18 months to 2 years per area. 

Waxed or tweezed areas take longer to treat than areas that have just been shaved. Each individual hair must be treated multiple times for the hair follicle to be permanently destroyed. 

Each modality is equally effective for destroying hair growth cells.

  • Galvanic is a chemical process.
    • The electric current causes the skin’s salt and water to breakdown and produce lye causing a chemical reaction in the hair follicle eliminating the hair growth cells.
  • Thermolysis or short-wave produces heat.  
    • It deprives the germinating cells of needed moisture.
  • The blend method combines galvanic current with thermolysis current.
    • Thermolysis heats up the chemical reaction in the follicle destroying hair growth cells.

Electrolysis works on all skin types, hair types, skin color, hair color, and areas of the body.  If you have unwanted hair, electrolysis could be your answer.

Electrolysis should not be painful. Some areas for example, the upper lip, are more sensitive than others.  However, I have topical anesthetic to reduce any discomfort you might experience. 

Treatments range from about 15 minutes to more than an hour. This is all depending on the amount of hair in the area being treated. 

This also varies between clients.  I see some clients once a week, while some once a month. As the hair breaks down your appointments become further and further apart for less time. 

There is very little risk of complications when preformed by a skilled professional. however, side effects include:

  • Slight skin irritation: itchiness, redness, or discomfort.  This is completely normal and will go down in a few hours.
    • You might see what looks likes bubbles under the skin. Again, this should go down within a few hours
  • Slight swelling in the treated area: use ice compresses as needed. 

We recommend applying aloe vera immediately after treatment to help any redness from the electrolysis.  Also, apply a solution of Epsom salts and warm water to the treated area as needed for 3 days. This aids the healing process. 

  • Try to avoid any any activity that could irritate the hair follicles for the first 24 hours such as:
    • Excessive sweating
    • Tanning 
    • Prolonged sun exposure 
    • Make-up applications 
    • Harsh creams or scrubs 
    • Deodorant
  • MOST IMPORTANTLY: Always wear a high SPF sunscreen every time you are in the sun.

Yes, electrolysis can be performed on any normal skin including pregnant women. We suggest you seek the advice of your physician before beginning treatments.