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ELECTROLYSIS OVERVIEW

Electrolysis Hair Removal: What It Is, Side Effects, Discomfort, and Cost

Divine Electrolysis / CPE / JULY 11, 2024

This article was written to introduce what electrolysis is and a brief overview of what to expect. Not all information was said and more will be explained in detail at scheduled consultation.

What is Electrolysis hair removal?

 

Electrolysis has been in use since 1875 for a good reason—it gives results!

Electrolysis is a hair-removal technique where we use electricity to permanently destroy hair follicles. A tiny probe is inserted into the pore, and the follicle is zapped with electricity to kill it. The dead hair is then removed with tweezers. You won’t feel anything when the hair is taken out because the hair is already treated, effectively killing both the cells in the hair follicle and the root of the hair.

There are three different methods of electrolysis:

  1. Thermolysis: The fastest and least painful method, using localized heat to destroy the follicle via the probe.
  2. Galvanic: The least common and generally the most painful method, using an electrical current and a chemical reaction to kill the hair follicle.
  3. Blend: A combination of both thermolysis and galvanic methods, often used for clients with thick, curly hair, and sensitive skin.

During the consultation, the best treatment plan will be decided based on your goals and hair type, so don’t worry too much about the options. As a trusted certified electrologist, your plan will be thoroughly explained to you.

Remember, regardless of the method used, your hair will no longer grow and will not come back after you’ve completed your electrolysis sessions.

Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal for any skin tone and hair color combination.

What is the difference between Electrolysis hair removal and Laser hair removal?

If you were surprised to learn that laser hair removal isn’t permanent, you’re not alone. The results of laser hair removal and electrolysis are quite different—laser hair removal permanently reduces some hair growth, while electrolysis permanently removes hair.

Laser hair removal uses a light-emitting laser to target a hair’s pigment and heat up the follicle, damaging it partially with each session. You can treat a large area of skin at once, making treatments relatively quick (e.g., armpits can take 15 minutes or less). However, there are some downsides: (1) Laser hair removal only reduces hair growth; it doesn’t stop it completely; (2) Many hair removal devices only work on light-to-medium skin tones with dark hair due to the way the light attaches to pigment; and (3) The back-and-forth zapping strokes can irritate sensitive or reactive skin types.

Electrolysis, on the other hand, treats one individual hair follicle at a time, so it takes longer to treat any area on your face or body, especially larger areas. Despite the longer treatment time, the benefits of electrolysis can outweigh the drawbacks: (1) Electrolysis is safe and effective for any skin color or hair color, including blonde, red, gray, or white hairs; and (2) Electrolysis truly stops hair from growing—permanently and forever.

Is Electrolysis hair removal uncomfortable?

The level of discomfort during electrolysis varies based on your pain tolerance and the area being treated. Initially, you’ll feel a pinch of heat from the electricity on the probe, often described as a sharp stinging sensation, but you won’t feel anything when the hair is pulled out afterward. The upper lip, groin, and neck are usually the most painful areas, while the cheeks and chin are often the easiest to tolerate.

You can use numbing cream from your local CVS or get a stronger prescription from your doctor. Taking Tylenol 30 minutes beforehand can also help reduce discomfort.

With this combination, many clients find electrolysis so tolerable that they can relax and even fall asleep. However, keep in mind that electrolysis appointments close to or during your menstrual cycle can cause discomfort.

What are the side effects of Electrolysis hair removal?

One side effect of electrolysis hair removal is immediate redness in the treatment area, which can last for 1-2 days depending on your skin’s sensitivity. To soothe the area, apply aloe and continue moisturizing for a week after your treatment. If the redness or potential irritation bothers you, you can use an ice pack or ice roller for a few minutes at a time throughout the day.

Some people may also experience folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicle, which can result in small clustered pimples) if bacteria gets into the follicle and irritates it. To help prevent this, cleanse your skin with an antibacterial cleanser containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid before and after your electrolysis sessions.

Can you shave in between Electrolysis?

No, do not shave between electrolysis appointments. Your hair will be at the optimal length for treatment at your next session.

Clients should avoid plucking, waxing, threading, or using hair removal creams between sessions to prevent stimulating hair growth.

Waxing, threading, or tweezing pulls the hair out from the root, which can stimulate the hair follicle and cause the hair to grow back faster and thicker.

Final thoughts

If you have hair that you never want to see again, especially if you’re transitioning or dealing with PCOS, you will want to consider electrolysis hair removal, since it’s the only option that will give you hair free results.

At your consultation, please ask us any questions you have and we are happy to answer them.

Just remember, there’s a reason electrolysis has been around since 1875, and it’s because it works!

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