A plethora of hair removal systems are out there, but all have their pros and cons. For some people who want to get rid of hair in places where there shouldn't be any, or for those who suffer from coarse, stubborn hairs that won't go away no matter how many times they are removed, electrolysis may be the answer.
What is Electrolysis?
One of the oldest hair removal techniques, it was reportedly discovered in 1875, when a certain Dr Charles Michel used it to remove ingrown eyelashes. His discovery, by today's standards, was fairly simple yet nonetheless considered completely revolutionary: he found that hair in follicles treated by electrolysis was destroyed - virtually permanently.
Electrolysis works in a straightforward fashion: a small amount of energy is passed through a needle into the follicle, producing heat which destroys cells at the base which are those responsible for producing hair. The result, however, is far from instant: in most cases, in order for the procedure to work the process must be repeated several times.
Currently, three types of electrolysis are on the market today. They are:
Galvanic. This is the original method developed by Dr Michel. The needle interacts with the body's salts and an electro-chemical current and a lye is produced which kills off hair. Achieves good results but is slow, however, it is said to have the best track record as far as hair regrowth is concerned.
Thermolysis. Produces a faster heat using a short-wave diathermy current but with less thorough results than galvanic electrolysis. In a nutshell, the needle passes an AC current through the water, which causes a vibration causing it to heat up and therefore damage the follicle. Ain't science wonderful?
Blend. As the name suggests, this type of electrolysis is one that swings both ways, passing both an AC and a DC current through the needle.
Be aware that no matter what type of electrolysis you choose, often the result will depend on the skill of the practitioner, preferably a cosmetic dermatologist. You will need to find someone with a proven track record who has successfully performed electrolysis countless times for best results. If possible, ask to speak to previous clients to see how they rate their experience. Also, be aware that follicles which are bent due to previous tweezing or waxing may not fare as well.
Pros of Electrolysis
* Lasts a lot longer than waxing, plucking or shaving.
* Can even (eventually) lead to permanent hair removal in some cases, and in some areas.
* Is suitable for all hair and skin types as it does not target the pigment in hair, unlike lasers.
* Is better in most cases than laser hair removal as the latter is almost always accompanied by hair regrowth (but electrolysis is considerably slower and more painful).
Cons of Electrolysis
* Can be painful. Some people find it mildly irritating and uncomfortable, others find it hurts excessively. Depends on your own pain threshold but remember, no pain, no gain.
* Can be expensive. Ask around to find a reasonable price, which will also depend on the size of the area you want treated, whether you will need to have loads of repeat sessions etc.
* Can be time-consuming, difficult and even boring when large amounts of hair are involved, for example, when trying to tame a very hairy back.
* When done improperly, can lead to regrowth, skin damage and infection. Minimize risks by making sure the technician is a qualified one (see above) and wears surgical gloves and uses disposable needles. Redness, swelling and even scabs are too be expected, so don't be too freaked out by some (temporary) unpleasant side-effects.
* Some people waste money as they find they don't respond to treatment at all.
* Some find there is a lot of hair regrowth. This is common in the pubic area and under the arms; going back once or twice a year for a tidy-up should do the trick.
* Is not recommended for specific potentially hirsute parts of the body, such as the nostrils or inside of the ear. Is also not for hairy moles.
What About Do-It-Yourself Electrolysis?
Not recommended. While many people are tempted to buy a DIY kit because they are cheaper and you can perform the electrolysis in the privacy of your own home, the drawbacks are many. The process is extremely time-consuming and without the proper training you can do yourself some serious skin damage.
In fact, the American Medical Association's Committee on Cutaneous Health and Cosmetics only recommends home kits when doing areas such as the lower legs, which are readily accessible. The hard and fast rule is: if you have to strain to see the area, don't treat it yourself.
Other considerations concern expense, saying that home kits are a false economy. They only last so long, and if you have a lot of hair to remove you may burn one out before you are finished, therefore having to purchase more kits. In the long run, going to a salon or med spa may be cheaper - unless, of course, you buy a do-it-yourself kit just to zap the stray hair a trained professional has missed.
Make Up Your Own Mind
The debate over electrolysis vs lasers for permanent hair removal is an ongoing one, and you will have to see what is best for you. Obviously, that will depend on a variety of factors, such as your own hair and skin type, the expanse of the area you want treated, your personal pain threshold and the state of your wallet. In some cases, it may make more sense - and cents - to just continue waxing and plucking away those unwanted hairs.
If you decide that visiting a med spa is the best option for you, make sure you choose a trained practitioner with lots of experience. Having a small area done first then checking the results in several months' time to see how you respond to treatment is also a good idea. Then again, those Julia Roberts-style hairy armpits may soon be back in vogue...
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate medical professional.
Sarah_Matthews
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