What is Electrolysis hair removal?

Electric hair removal by electrolysis is the oldest permanent or durable hair removal methods. How does it work? What are its advantages and disadvantages? We’ll tell you all about this technique.

Supplanted by semi-permanent hair removal techniques such as laser hair removal or IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), electrolysis hair removal is still relatively the most effective and economical hair removal method out of other outstanding natural alternatives.

Carried out by a dermatologist or a cosmetic doctor, it consists of sending a small electric shock using a small needle into the hair bulb to prevent hair regrowth.

As the areas to be depilated are treated hair by hair, this permanent hair removal technique takes longer than the others and requires several sessions, which, depending on the pilosity, can be costly.

Electrolysis hair removal: how does it work?

Concretely, the dermatologist uses a handpiece, connected to a high-frequency electrical device, on which is placed the “filament”, a sterile needle that he will introduce at the base of the hair.

It is this filament that transmits a low-voltage electrical discharge to the hair bulb. This electrical impulse causes a natural chemical reaction called electrolysis: in short, the hair follicle releases caustic soda, which leads to the hair’s permanent destruction.

How does an electrolysis session take place?

Generally, the first session does not exceed 15 minutes and is mainly used to test the skin for electrolysis.

Afterward, there are two possibilities: either a long session is carried out to treat the entire area to be epilated. In this case, the hair removal is done under local anesthesia and then we have to wait two to three months before having another session.

Or shorter and regular sessions of 5 to 30 minutes are done.

N.B: electric hair removal can only be done in the anagen phase (hair growth phase), so it requires several sessions. This is why the treatment of an area can vary from six months to two years. It is a long-term job, but with relatively guaranteed results.

What are the advantages of electrolysis hair removal?

It is effective and definitive, (they say). Moreover, it is suitable for all skin types (matte and black), works on all hairs (white and blond – excluded by pulsed light and laser), and can be performed on all areas of the body and face.

And the disadvantages?

Its cost: as the rates are calculated on a time basis per quotation, it can be expensive.

The last disadvantage is pain. Depending on our sensitivity, it can be more or less unpleasant. In this case, the dermatologist prescribes an anesthetic cream to reduce the tingling sensation.

Are there any side effects?

Apart from the side effects, it must be highlighted that it is not suitable for everyone. In particular, it should not be used by pregnant women, diabetics, people with a heart condition, people undergoing acne treatment and chemotherapy/radiotherapy.

Another thing to note: do not expose yourself to the sun for three weeks, before and after a session.

Finally, during the treatment, slight swelling or redness may occur on the depilated area for a few minutes, and sometimes a small crust may form and then disappear after 48 hours.

Before you start, find out who is qualified to perform electrolysis. Prefer dermatologists, and if possible, choose a practitioner who has been recommended to you.

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