Electrolysis Hair Removal

Whether you’re transitioning, dealing with PCOS, or simply wanting to stop shaving and waxing, electrolysis hair removal offers long-term results. This treatment can be done anywhere on the body and is effective for all skin and hair types.

The technique destroys the follicles, which means new hair growth will never occur. It is, however, a lengthy process. Make sure you have chosen the right electrolysis hair removal this time.

Let's discuss a few things related to electrolysis hair removal.

Cost

The cost of electrolysis hair removal varies depending on your individual needs, the area being treated, and where you get your treatment. Generally, larger cities will have higher rates than smaller towns. The average single one hour session costs about $50-$125.

Electrolysis kills only about 35 percent of hair follicles per treatment so it takes multiple treatments to permanently destroy all of the unwanted hair in an area. It can also take months to years before you see permanent results.

While electrolysis may seem expensive, it’s a better option than temporary methods like waxing or shaving. In addition, you’ll save money over time by not having to buy and maintain razors, creams, or other disposables. Plus, the psychological benefits of permanency can make it worth the investment. Most people find that their hair growth progressively decreases after their first few treatments. In some cases, hair even stops growing completely. This is true for both men and women.

Pain

Electrolysis produces permanent results, works well on all skin and hair types, is safe for pregnant women, and can be less expensive than laser treatments. However, it can be quite painful — even with pre-medication with anesthetic topical cream — and will take several treatment sessions before unwanted hair is completely removed from the intended site.

The process involves inserting a tiny probe into each individual hair follicle and applying a controlled electric current that damages the follicle to the point where it will never grow hair again. While a person might tolerate the procedure better in one part of the body than another, "it’s important to stick with it," says Elise.

It’s also essential to find a licensed, professional electrologist with experience using needle electrolysis (not electrocautery, epilation or photoepilation). The wrong tools can lead to scarring and infection. In addition, people with certain medical conditions, such as keloid scarring or hemophilia, should avoid the procedure.

Redness

Immediately following an electrolysis treatment, your skin may experience redness that lasts up to a couple of days. It’s important to moisturize your skin daily to keep it healthy. It also helps reduce the appearance of scars (fibrous tissue that replaces normal skin).

The redness associated with electrolysis hair removal is caused by the direct destruction of a hair follicle by the current used in the treatment. It is less common than bruising, and it usually goes away within two weeks. If the area is swollen or painful, try using witch hazel to help with the recovery.

While rare, some people can develop a small bump called a pustule that appears a day or two after a treatment session. These are the result of leaking blood from the damaged follicle. It’s important to know that a scab will form over the pustule and it will protect it as it heals. This is a completely normal side effect and it’s nothing to worry about.

Regrowth

Unlike shaving, waxing and plucking, electrolysis permanently closes hair follicles so that they never grow back. However, it takes several treatments to reach permanent hair reduction. Often, people will need to attend appointments every week or every other week for a year and a half to see significant results.

It is normal to experience regrowth after the first few sessions, as not all hair follicles are in their active growth phase at the same time. But by the eighth to twelfth session, most of your unwanted hair should be permanently removed.

It is important to remember that your progress is dependent on the skill of your electrologist and how consistent you are with your treatment schedule. It is also best to avoid using hair removal products that pull at the hairs, such as plucking, waxing and threading. This can cause the hair to grow back in an untreated area and slow your treatment progress. It can also cause a painful reaction and result in hyperpigmentation on the skin.