Electrolysis

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The battle with unwanted hair, and the removal of it, is for many an ongoing one. Waxing and shaving, the most popular methods of hair removal, offer good results, but unfortunately not permanent ones. The effects from these procedures are only temporary, meaning that the hair will always grow back within a matter of days or weeks. Maintaining the hair removal can result in a costly, continuing process.

However, there is one form of hair removal which gives permanent results. Electrolysis works by completely destroying the hair follicle, so that it will never grow back.

What is electrolysis?

Electrolysis is in fact a scientific process. It is a method of using an electric current to drive an otherwise non-spontaneous chemical reaction, such as separating elements.

What does this have to do with hair removal, you may ask. Well, this electric current can also be used on the skin. A small amount of energy is passed into the hair follicle through a fine needle. This generates heat which destroys the follicle cell that produces the hair. Most importantly, it’s permanent, once the cell is destroyed the hair won’t grow back.

How often do I need it?

Several rounds of electrolysis need to be administered over a period of time in order to be effective. The average session lasts around ten to thirty minutes. The series of treatments will take place over the course of a few months or a year, after which no further treatment will usually be required. The exact amount of treatments required will differ from person to person.

Is electrolysis safe?

The British Institute and Association of Electrolysis (BIAE) recognises that “Electrolysis is the only medically approved form of permanent hair removal.” You should confirm that your electrolysist is fully qualified and preferably a registered member of BIAE.

What areas of the body can electrolysis be used on?

Electrolysis can be used on any area of the body. It is most commonly used to remove small areas of unwanted hair that cannot be removed by other methods, such as hair on the upper lip, arms, toes, the chin, sides of the face and the bikini line, however it can also be used on larger areas too.

We are often tempted to tweeze or pluck the odd stray hair, but this can cause ingrown hairs, electrolysis is a far more effective way of removing such hairs.

There are no side effects from electrolysis. Some people may experience some redness on the skin immediately after the treatment, but this will soon subside. Some people may find the experience uncomfortable, but this is all dependent on the individual.

Sometimes a numbing cream may be offered before the treatment to help reduce the pain, and levels can be adjusted during the treatment to help make you more comfortable. And of course, the treatment has a time frame – once the treatment is completed there will be no need to go through it again.

Tips

• Be patient, it can take months before hairs will stop growing back, due to the specific hair growth cycle.
• It is a permanent treatment. Think carefully about where you want the treatment.
• Be prepared for some discomfort – some experience it, some don’t, but be advised that electrolysis isn’t entirely pain free, but steps can be taken to help reduce it.
• Make sure you choose a reputable, qualified clinic, and that you have an in-depth consultation about what you want and how long it will take before agreeing to undertake any treatments.
• And finally…look forward to a hair free future!

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This content is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the advice given by any professional.