What is Electrolysis?

For centuries men and women have struggled with unwanted hair and multiple techniques have been used for its removal.  Sadly, many of these were unsafe, wildly ineffective and none were permanent.

It was not until 1875 when Dr. Charles Michel Invented a safe and permanent method for the removal of hair. Although the invention originally was developed to treat ingrown hair, Dr. William Hardaway was quickly adapted to work with nearly every part of the body.  This method of hair removal has since been coined electrolysis.

Today, electrolysis is used for the successful and permanent removal of unwanted hair anywhere on the body.   Electrolysis works by damaging the base of the hair follicles known as “germinal papilla” through electrochemical or heat energy to destroy the hair follicles.  Once destroyed the hair is removed with tweezers. The work must be done by a trained and licensed electrologist to ensure the safety of every treatment. Sterilization procedures are extremely important during electrolysis. 

What is the Cause of Unwanted Hair?

Excess and unwanted hair growth on the body can be caused by many things.  This includes hereditary predisposition, hormonal reasons, certain drugs and medications, other temporary hair removal techniques, illness, or gender transitions. Electrolysis can be used on nearly every part of the body including electrolysis for eyebrows, electrolysis for the face, electrolysis for the abdomen, electrolysis for the face, electrolysis for the breast, and electrolysis for bikini area, and electrolysis for the legs.

How Does Electrolysis Work?

Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal.  Each electrolysis treatment program is unique, just like each client is unique. Your electrologist will help outline a specific hair removal treatment program for you based on your needs. Electrolysis is done over several sessions and most clients will visit their Electrologist once a week, or every other week, until the treatment program is complete.

During your electrolysis procedure, a fine needle will be inserted into the hair follicle along the hair shaft where a tiny amount of electrical current is applied to destroy the hair growth cells. The needle is always thinner than the hair actually being treated.  The duration of your electrologist appointment can vary.  

Before you begin your electrolysis treatment plan, you want to work with a trained electrologist. They will help you develop a treatment program based on the location and characteristics of the hair you want to have removed.  Your electrologist will work closely with you to develop a hair removal treatment plan that works to meet your goals.

The most common question related to electrolysis is related to the degree of pain that a new client might expect.  Most people experience minimal discomfort, this varies from client to client, due to individual pain tolerance levels.

Before and after your treatment you want to keep your skin clean and stay hydrated. After treatment, your skin might be sensitive or tender with some slight redness. This will disappear within a few hours. There is almost no risk related to electrolysis when the work is performed by a trained practitioner.

Who Can Practice Electrolysis?

When considering electrolysis you want to make sure that you are working with a trained and licensed electrologist. Training and licensing requirements vary from state to state so it’s important to do your homework. Download our free guide to selecting you were electrologist to know what questions to ask. You can also check out our frequently asked questions page for more info. Looking for an experienced Electrologist in Vermont, New Hampshire or Massachusetts? Contact Corinna Griswold of Beauty Beneath Electrolysis today for a free consultation.