How Electrolysis Works:
Electrolysis is the process by which unwanted hair is permanently removed with the use of a small electrical current. The process begins with the insertion of a small probe into the hair follicle. This is painless and is similar to putting a key into a lock. The probe does not puncture the skin, instead it simply slides down into the follicle alongside the hair shaft. Once the probe is properly positioned, a small amount of electrical current is applied over a short period of time and then the probe is removed. The target of this
process is not the hair itself, but the dermal papilla. This is the
structure of the skin that is responsible for growing and nourishing
the hair. It includes the blood supply, nerve receptors, and regenerative cells. If the dermal papilla is destroyed, the
follicle will no longer be able to produce a hair. The application of the current will loosen the hair. It will then be removed by the electrologist. While this process is detailed, each hair takes but a few seconds to treat.
It is common for many hairs to be eliminated with just one treatment, however, other hairs will need two or more treatments to achieve permanence. After all, the body has likely spent many years nourishing each of these follicles. There are several factors that play into determining how many treatments the area will need. Some of these include: genetics, usage of certain medications, health conditions, the coarseness of the hair, an individual's pain tolerance, and previous methods of hair removal. For each person, one or more of these possibilities may be contributing to increased hair growth. For these reasons, each person will differ in the amount of treatments necessary to eliminate their hair.
The American Medical Association has recognized Electrolysis as the only permanent form of hair removal. Currently, three modalities can be used to get rid of unwanted hair. These include:
Galvanic is a
chemical method that utilizes a direct current to convert normal body
salt and water in the follicle into a compound capable of destroying
the dermal papilla (the skin structure that is reponsible for hair
growth).
Thermolysis utilizes an alternating current to heat the cells of the dermal papilla delivering permanent results.
Blend method
combines both galvanic electrolysis and thermolysis into one treatment.
This is the most effective modality currently available. The blend
method is the one we most often use.
What to Expect:
Side effects are usually mild and subside within 2-24 hours. Common side effects include redness, follicular edema (swelling in area of treatment), and tenderness.
After Care Treatment:
After each treatment, it is wise to avoid use of heavy cosmetics. Also, keep the area as clean as possible so as to avoid a breakout or infection. Many clients will use ice on the area if redness or tenderness persists. The use of aloe vera can be beneficial as well.