What is electrolysis?
Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal. It works by targeting individual hair follicles with a needle (probe) and a small amount of electric current to destroy the cells that allow new hairs to grow. The hair is then epilated with tweezers (forceps).
Electrolysis is effective on all skin tones and hair types including hairs difficult to treat with laser, such as blonde, red, and gray/white hairs and dark hairs on dark skin.
How is electrolysis different from laser?
Electrolysis differs from laser in that electrolysis is permanent hair removal while laser is permanent hair reduction / temporary removal.
Electrolysis targets each individual hair directly with a needle and electric current; laser targets a larger area by targeting the pigment in hair using concentrated light. Both modalities damage the hair follicle to inhibit future hair growth.
Laser hair removal doesn't work well on blonde, red, gray, or white hair because these colors lack the necessary pigment (melanin) for the laser to target and heat the hair follicle effectively.
Electrolysis is effective on all skin tones and hair types including blonde, red, and gray/white hairs.
For larger areas including under arms, bikini, and legs, you may want to start with laser for faster reduction, if you are a candidate. You can then graduate to electrolysis to target stubborn and lighter hairs.
Electrolysis is best for small, sensitive, more precise areas like the upper lip or eyebrows and for stubborn hormonal areas like the chin.
What about plucking or waxing?
Removing the hair by the root (removing the bulb), whether plucking or waxing, stimulates blood flow to the entire area which can cause dormant hairs to grow and make existing hairs healthier, stronger, and thicker. Electrolysis targets the bulb so the hairs release easily without stimulating the healing response of blood flow.
How many treatments will I need and how often do I need to go?
Electrolysis requires a series of treatments. The amount of energy required to destroy all of the cells that allow a new hair to grow would damage the skin if it were administered in one session.
Additionally, the hair does not all grow at the same time. Each hair begins to grow at a different time in a cycle that typically lasts 12 weeks. The most effective treatment is given when hairs are first growing, so in the beginning of treatment it’s best to see your electrologist weekly to target each hair once during the 12-week cycle.
Remember - the hairs that are treated today are not the same hairs that will appear next week! New hairs are lying just below the surface and are misinterpreted as regrowth.
Hair will grow back finer and less often over time, as the cells that allow for new growth are destroyed.
The total number of sessions will depend on your particular hair growth, which can be affected by hormones, medications, and genetics, and other factors.
Generally, electrolysis results are noticeable within 3 months and can take 12 -18 months for completion, with treatments needed less frequently over time, when following the schedule recommended by your electrologist.
Why are the hairs growing back almost immediately after my treatment?
The hairs that are treated today are not the same hairs that will appear next week! New hairs are lying just below the surface and are misinterpreted as regrowth.
Is electrolysis painful?
Each person has a different tolerance level. The sensation felt can be described as warming or tingling or feeling a light rubberband snap. Treatments can be adjusted for more comfort; however, electrolysis may not be tolerated by everyone.
Are there side effects?
It is common to experience temporary redness or swelling after your treatment, which should dissipate within a few hours to a few days. These are natural reactions from the stimulus applied to the follicle and can be eased with the use of an ice pack and witch hazel.
How do I prepare for my treatment?
The hair in the area to be treated needs to be showing as a short stubble or longer in order for the hair to be epilated with forceps (tweezers).
For best results, shave 3-7 days before your appointment to ensure we’re doing the most destruction per session by treating hairs that are actively growing. The more hairs that can be destroyed during the active phase, the fewer treatments will be needed.
Exfoliate and moisturize regularly to allow easier access to the hair follicle.
For best results, refrain from bleaching, plucking, threading, or waxing hairs in desired treatment area for six weeks. Shaving, cutting or trimming the area is recommended.
For best results, stay well-hydrated in the 48 hours before your appointment. Electrolysis works with the water in your hair follicle to destroy the cells that cause hair growth.
If possible, arrive with the treatment area clean and free of makeup, deodorant, lotions and scents.
If you have a history of herpes or cold sores, electrolysis may trigger an outbreak. Consult your doctor to determine if you need antiviral medication.
** Please note that electrolysis CANNOT be performed if:
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You have active herpes, active shingles, or weeping wounds.
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You have conjunctivitis (pink eye).
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You have any other active infection.
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You have taken ACCUTANE within the last year. Treatment can cause keloid scarring.
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You have used prescription retinoids in the last 7 days
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You have had eyebrow staining in the last 14 days
Electrolysis is not recommended if you are currently taking or have taken antibiotics within 7 days due to skin sensitivity.
** Please note that a doctor’s note is needed before treatment if any of the following conditions exist:
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Bleeding Disorder / Coagulation Issues
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Cancer (Current and in Remission)
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Corticosteroids / Cortisone / Injection or Oral Steroids
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Diabetes (treatments are limited to the face, no treatments can be done to the body)
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Electric Devices in the Body
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Hairs in Moles
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Heart Conditions
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Immunosuppressive Disease
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Keloids
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Pregnancy
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Seizures
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Transplant Surgery