What is Electrolysis Permanent Hair Removal?

Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal.

Laser Hair Removal can only offer “up to 80% hair reduction”, according to the FDA. Electrolysis is different because it completely removes the hair and destroys regenerative cells that help the hair regrow.

The laser can only reduce the size of the hair and cannot treat every hair. Normal hormonal changes that happen throughout a person’s lifetime can cause the hair that has been treated with the laser to “grow back” because the hair was never actually removed and hormones have stimulated hair growth. This does not happen with electrolysis because the entire hair structure has been removed, preventing any future regrowth. “Touch-ups” are not needed with electrolysis. Once the hair is gone, it is gone.

With electrolysis, each hair is removed individually. A probe about the size of the hair is inserted into the follicle and emits an electric current that destroys the hair root.

The treated hair is then removed with tweezers. The regenerative cells and the blood supply to the hair follicle are destroyed by the current. The result is permanent destruction of the hair.

Electrolysis is safe and effective on all skin and hair types and hair colors.

Depending on the modality used, electrolysis uses heat or a chemical reaction to destroy the hair root. It does not rely on pigment in the hair in order to be effective. All hair colors, including white hair, can be removed permanently.

It can be performed on any area of the body except for inside the nostrils and ear canals.

Hair on any area of the body can be removed permanently with electrolysis. You can finally be rid of unwanted hair and be free of ingrown hair and other skin irritations that come with other forms of hair removal.

There are three different methods of modern electrolysis for permanent hair removal: galvanic (electrolysis), thermolysis, and the blend.

The original method uses a galvanic current. This is a direct current that causes a chemical reaction in the hair follicle that produces lye. The lye fills the follicle and works to destroy the hair root. It also destroys the regenerative cells and the blood supply that feeds the hair.

Thermolysis is a more recent method. Thermolysis uses an alternating current that causes electron exchange to occur in the follicle. This creates friction between water molecules, producing heat that destroys the hair root as well as the regenerative cells and the blood supply.

The blend is a combination of galvanic and thermolysis.

Each method has its place in electrolysis treatments. They are all effective in permanently removing hair. The electrologist will determine which method is best suited to the hair and skin being treated as well as taking into account the health history of the client.

Properly caring for your skin before and after electrolysis treatments is necessary to receive good results.

Hydration is one of the most important things you can do for your skin. Drinking plenty of water and moisturizing your skin is necessary for good treatment outcomes. If there is not enough water in your skin, the treatment will not be as effective.

Sunscreen is important to remember in order to avoid hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation (discoloration) after treatment. Sunscreen also helps protect your skin from damaging UV rays that can slow healing.

Keeping your skin clean, moisturized, and away from damaging heat and UV rays will help give you good treatment outcomes.