Electrolysis hair removal
Electrolysis hair removal has been around for about a century in the United States. It is a process to permanently remove hair from different parts of the body (except the nose, ears, and from a mole). Electrology is basically a practice in its own right because it focuses on removing hair from the human body. The process certainly isn’t painless, but it has come a long way with all of the advanced technology available. Electrolysis must be done properly so it lasts and no unintended damage occurs. Choosing an electrologist is just as important as choosing to have the procedure done and choosing which method to have done. That may seem like a lot of decisions to make, but with all the right information, it should be a little easier for you.
How Electrolysis Hair Removal Works
The practice of electrology itself is quite simple; the actual doing of it is a little more complicated. Essentially, a needle is inserted into each hair follicle and an electrical pulse is sent through the needle. The hope is that the hair is actively growing, and the current of electricity will cause localized damage in the areas that hair is generated from, “damaging” them permanently so they will not be stimulated to grow. Each method works a little differently, but that is the basic idea. The process may be slightly painful for some people, depending on the coarseness of the hair, the sensitivity of the area, and an individual’s tolerance for discomfort.
Methods of Electrolysis Hair Removal
There are three different methods of electrolysis hair removal: galvanic, thermolysis, and the blend.
Galvanic method—in this method, the current doesn’t cause the destruction of the hair follicles; a chemical reaction does. Salt and water around the probe are chemically altered to form sodium hydroxide, also known as lye, which eats away at and destroys the hair follicles.
Thermolysis method—this method uses short wave radio frequency; it causes the water by the hair follicles to vibrate rapidly enough that they become heated. The heat destroys the hair follicles.
The blend method—this method combines the galvanic and thermolysis methods in the hope that the process will go a lot quicker. One way or the other, the hair follicles will be destroyed.
Possible Side Effects
The most common ‘side effect’ would be that the process doesn’t work. Some people may experience full or partial hair re-growth in the area(s). If the electrolysis was done poorly, permanent damage to the skin can occur and potentially cause infections. Redness, swelling, blisters, scabs, dryness, and ingrown hairs are all fairly common, but not agonizing or long-lasting. If the scabs are severe, there is the chance that there may be permanent scarring.
The Good Candidate
Many people have unwanted hair growth (due to hormones or it may even be hereditary), while other may want hair removed for a whole host of reasons: cosmetic, social, cultural, or medical. Most areas can be treated, including the face, eyebrows, thighs, abdomen, and legs.
Choosing an Electrologist
To ensure a safe and effective treatment, choosing a qualified and experienced electrologist is vital. The procedure is invasive and intricate, and you don’t want just anybody doing it. Some states don’t necessarily require licensing for electrology, but finding a professional will save you a lot of trouble in the short and long run. Taking the advice of a reputable family member or friend is a good way to find a true expert on electrolysis. Having a consultation with the practitioner beforehand can also give you a good feel of the individual and the environment in which he or she practices.
Cost
This procedure it not only time-consuming, but money-consuming, too. However, the price will vary greatly, depending on the electrologist. Most charge anywhere from $45 to $125 per hour. Keep in mind that one treatment would need to be spread over several days because it takes so long. Call around your area to find the exact prices.
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