Electrolysis is a treatment option for permanent hair removal. The process involves inserting a small needle into the hair shaft, down to the bulb (or root) of the hair and applying a small electrical charge. The needles are attached to a machine that delivers heat or electric current, or a combination of energy sources.http://www.electrology.com/consumer/faq.html
Preference for permanent hair removal by electrolysis should be given to practitioners with a Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE) license that are also members of the American Electrology Association. Individuals with these designations agree to abide by industry standards established by the association and must maintain continuing education or face routine retesting to maintain the CPE designation.http://www.electrology.com/consumer/faq.html
Types of Electrolysis
- Thermolysis- This form of electrolysis uses short-wave heat to destroy the hair follicle. Some system use a flash method of high intensity heat, while other systems use longer time, but lower temperatures.http://www.electrology.com/consumer/faq.html#
- Galvanic- Uses electronic stimulation to produce a chemical reaction in the hair follicle and root that kills the base of the hair. Often, a 16 needle galvanic electrolysis machines are used that can destroy 16 hairs at the same time.http://www.electrology.com/consumer/faq.html#
- Blended- Some electrologists prefer to use a blended method that uses thermolysis to raise the temperature on the chemical galvanic reaction.http://www.electrology.com/consumer/faq.html#
Cost of Electrolysis
The cost of electrolysis depends upon the size of treatment area, the number of hairs that need to be removed and the number of treatment sessions needed. The geographic location of treatment may also factor into the cost. Most treatment sessions last between 15 minutes and an hour.http://www.electrology.com/consumer/faq.html# Costs can vary wildly, but many electrologists charge between $15 and $125 per session.http://www.hairlasers.com/electrolysis.php
Permanence of Electrolysis
A medical doctor, Dr. Randall Wilkinson, discusses the process electrolysis uses to remove facial hair. He discusses the general growth process of the hair and how electrolysis is used to eliminate hair growth. A needle is inserted along the hair in the hair shaft, down to the hair follicle. An electric charge is passed down to the follicle and destroys the follicle bulb. One of the biggest pros is the length of time and safety record for the process. He says the main drawback to the procedures is the pain that some individual experience and the need to process each hair individually.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact a doctor before using the information presented here.
References
Fast Facts
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Type of procedure
Permanent hair removal.
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Methods
Thermolysis, Galvanic or combination
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Costs
Varies by practitioner, area and time required.
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Sessions needed
Multiple sessions are often needed.
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Body areas
Can be performed on most facial and body areas.
