What is Electrolysis?
Electrology is the science of permanent hair removal. Using state-of-the-art technology, a minute amount of electricity is gently applied to the base of the hair follicle. This process destroys the hair growth tissue. Therefore, the regenerative ability of the hair follicle is permanently eliminated.
The term electrolysis is used to describe all methods of permanent hair removal. The electrolysis modality was the first method used to remove hair permanently back in 1875. The term electrolysis branded the process of permanent hair removal.
An electrologist inserts a very fine needle into the natural opening of the hair follicle alongside the hair shaft (keep in mind how tiny hairs are). A minute amount of current is then applied to destroy the hair growth cells. Medical electrolysis devices destroy the hair growth cells with chemical or heat energy. All modalities equally destroy hair growth cells that causes hair growth. The modality used is the preference of the professional electrologist.
There are three modalities used today that fall under the heading of electrolysis:
- Galvanic or electrolysis is a chemical process. The current produces a chemical reaction in the hair follicle eliminating the hair growth cells. This method is widely used in the multiple needle galvanic electrolysis, utilizing up to 16 needles simultaneously.
- Thermolysis or short-wave produces heat. When this modality is used it heats and destroys the hair growth cells in the follicle. This modality can be utilized in two ways: (1) flash method of thermolysis uses high intensity current for less time in the follicle (2) the current is used at lower intensity and longer timing.
- The blend method combines galvanic current with thermolysis current. Thermolysis heats up the chemical reaction in the follicle destroying hair growth cells.
Why should I chose electrolysis over other hair removal methods?
Electrolysis is the only true permanent hair removal method and the only permanent treatment recognized by the FDA.
Do electrologists follow appropriate infection control procedures?
The American Electrology Association has written Standards for Infection Control following the most recent recommendations from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Association for Practitioners in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC).
How many treatments will it take?
The number of treatments necessary varies with each client. Treatment sessions can range from 15 minutes to more than an hour depending on the area being treated. Factors such as hair growth cycles, the quantity and structure of hair presented, previous use of temporary hair removal methods, heredity, hormone function, certain medication and stress influence the treatment program for each individual. It is important to follow the recommended treatment plan to achieve optimum results.
How long will a treatment session take?
Treatment sessions can range from 15 minutes to more than an hour, depending on the area being treated. Based on a thorough and confidential consultation, a professional electrologist will provide you with a tailored treatment plan that will address your specific areas of concern.
How do I know that I'm getting good treatments?
The electrologist should explain all aspects of the treatments, recommend a treatment schedule that will help you accomplish your hair removal goals, and explain how you should take care of the treated skin. Generally speaking, you should not feel the insertion of the probe into the hair follicle, nor should you feel like the hair is being pulled out when it is removed; the hair will easily slide out of the follicle when properly treated. You skin will likely be red after treatment; the redness should dissipate within the day. Your skin should not be unduly irritated and will heal normally if a few precautions are taken, as should be discussed during your consultation. If you have any questions, the electrologist should be happy to answer them to your satisfaction.
I have always had a lot of facial hair. I thought I was the only one, but now I am beginning to wonder - are there others like me?
There are many of us with unwanted hair. In fact, most likely, your electrologist has spent many hours receiving electrolysis treatments. Her compassion comes from walking in your shoes. I believe there are more of us with unwanted hair than without!
