What is Electrolysis (permanent hair removal)?
Electrolysis is a way of removing individual hairs from the face or body. Today's medical electrolysis devices destroy the growth center of the hair with chemical or heat energy. A very fine probe is inserted into the hair follicle at the surface of the skin. The hair is then removed harmlessly with a tweezer.
What causes unwanted hair growth?
Hair growth is the result of heredity and hormonal levels. Also, some drugs, temporary methods of hair removal and some illnesses can stimulate hair growth. Usually, hair growth is desirable. But when hair grows on the wrong part of your body—a woman's upper lip or chin, the hands or arms, electrolysis may be something you want to consider.
How many treatments will I need?
Since many factors influence hair growth, you will need to return for several visits. Factors such as hair growth cycles, the quantity and structure of hair presented, previous use of temporary hair removal methods, heredity, hormone function, certain medication and stress influence the treatment program for each individual. Electrolysis is effective on all skin and hair types. The total number of sessions needed to remove hair permanently from a particular area will vary from person to person. Most clients return once a week or every other week, as necessary. But the unwanted hair will be gone forever once the series of treatments have been completed. Each treatment lasts between 15 minutes and one hour.
Facts about electrolysis
- Electrolysis is a time-tested method that was invented more than 100 years ago.
- There are no permanent side effects. Sometimes, a slight reddening of the skin occurs during or immediately after treatment, but this will only last for a short time. Electrolysis is very safe and, unlike depilatories or bleaches, no harsh chemicals are used.
There are three modalities used today that fall under the heading of electrolysis:
- Galvanic or electrolysis is a chemical process. It works by causing salt and water in the skin around the probe to be chemically altered to produce a small amount of sodium hydroxide, or lye. The current produces a chemical reaction in the hair follicle eliminating the hair growth cells.
- Thermolysis or short-wave produces heat. When this modality is used it heats and destroys the hair growth cells in the follicle. This modality can be utilized in two ways: (1) flash method of thermolysis uses high intensity current for less time in the follicle (2) the current is used at lower intensity and longer timing.
- The blend method combines galvanic current with thermolysis current. Thermolysis heats up the chemical reaction in the follicle destroying hair growth cells.
Are all hairs eliminated in one treatment or is regrowth to be expected?
Excessive hair growth, known as hirsutism can range from fine, vellus hair to dark, coarse hair on the face and body. Deep, coarse hairs cannot always be eliminated with one treatment; thus, breaking down the hair growth cells may require addition treatments. Based on a personal and confidential consultation, your Electrologist will design a treatment plan that addresses your specific hair removal needs.
What is the normal growth cycle of a hair?
Hairs have differing cycles of growth, many of which are not visible on the surface of the skin at the same time. The follicle produces the hair from the blood supply, and discards it eventually through shedding. The process of growth, rest and replacement are known as the hair growth cycle. The sequence of events is repeated constantly until a hair ceases to be formed.
What does electrolysis feel like?
Most clients find electrolysis to be a comfortable experience. With continually advancing technology, equipment and treatment protocols, Electrolysis is more comfortable and effect than ever before. Electrolysis can help you transform your image through smooth hair free skin.
Can women begin or have electrolysis treatments during pregnancy?
Unwanted hair can be caused by hormonal changes brought on by pregnancy. Electrolysis (Thermolysis) can be performed on any normal skin. This includes pregnant women. We suggest that you seek the advice of your physician before beginning treatment.
