Electrolysis Hair Removal

Electrolysis uses heat energy to permanently remove the hair from the body. Each hair is treated with an electrical current that destroys the hair at the root, ensuring that it will not grow back.

Electrolysis uses a probe to deliver energy to the root of the hair. In contrast, laser hair removal acts at the surface of the skin and relies on the hair to carry the energy to the root. Electrolysis destroys the root of the hair ensuring that it is permanently removed, whereas laser hair removal only has a 20% efficacy. Additionally, many people aren't candidates for laser hair removal due to their complexion and hair consistency. Electrolysis can be performed on all skin tones and hair types.

Absolutely! Tweezing, shaving, waxing, and depilatories only relieve the hair temporarily, can be expensive over time, and may even worsen the problem. Electrolysis is the only treatment recognized by the American Medical Association and approved by the FDA.

Hair growth between sessions, though, is not uncommon. Since hair usually takes one week to three months to regrow, you may notice hair growth in the treatment area that was dormant at the time of the initial treatment. Also, deep-rooted or coarse hairs may require additional treatments.

Your electrologist will insert a very fine probe into the follicle - a small pocket in the skin which allows for easy insertion. When the probe reaches the bottom of the follicle, a slight impulse will be felt. The end result is a sealing off of the blood supply which nourishes the hair.

The arms, underarms, legs, thighs, toes (oh yeah), abdomen, bikini line, breasts, chin, upper lip, eyebrows, back, hairline... even the ears!

Healing takes place rather quickly, and normal reactions may include a slight reddening and/or minor swelling of the treated area. Occasionally tiny scabs appear and should not last more than a few days with an antibiotic cream. Keeping the area clean and cosmetic free will help promote proper healing.

Most patients only feel a very quick, very slight stinging sensation - reportedly far less painful than waxing or tweezing.

For those who have very sensitive skin, the FDA has recently approved EMLA, a prescription topical anesthetic. Since skin sensitivity and hair resistance will vary, your electrologist will design a course of action that is right for you.

Electrolysis is the only treatment recognized by the American Medical Association and approved by the FDA.

Your electrologist should provide an environment which meets or exceeds the standards developed by the Center for Disease Control and the American Electrology Association. In addition, disposable probes and gloves are used to ensure the utmost safety.

A session lasts 15-60 minutes, and the number of sessions needed my vary. There are several factors to consider: The amount of hair, its location, the depth and coarseness, previous methods of hair removal (e.g. waxing and tweezing strengthens the root), the structure of the hair, and the growth cycle.

Your electrologist can help you determine a rough timeline based on the factors specific to you.

Absolutely! But choose carefully, as you would any allied health professional, your electrologist should:

• Be a graduate of a recognized, certified school of electrology
• Provide a current, dated, state certified licensure
• Hold membership in a professional electrologists' organization

Electrologists may also provide special treatments, such as ingrown hair removal, and work with dermatologists as needed.

Take advantage of the free consultation your chosen electrologist may provide - he or she should be happy to discuss a personalized treatment plan. Be sure to observe the surroundings and cleanliness. You should have confidence in your electrologist and in your treatment.

Electrolysis will not only make you feel more confident by improving your skin's appearance, but can also lessen its oiliness and odor. Also, ridding yourself of unwanted hair can also rid you of the frustration, time, and expense of using the various temporary methods available. With fees and appointments scheduled to fit your needs, you can feel confident that an effective treatment will be achieved - providing a lifetime of permanent hair removal.