Complications of Electrolysis (2024)

FAQs

What are the complications of electrolysis? ›

The removal of heat generated by the passage of electric current is one of the major problems in most forms of electrophoresis. Any temperature difference causes variations in the rates of migration through the medium, resulting in distortion in the bands of separated molecules.

Some degree of redness about treated hair follicles for a few days is not uncommon. Potential risks of electrolysis include scarring and increased or reduced pigmentation i.e. brown or white marks. Secondary local infection with bacteria (impetigo) or reactivation of herpes simplex are also possible complications.

Electrolysis Cons

The electricity in the device can actually destroy the capillaries in the surrounding areas. It can be very painful. It is not recommended for people with rosacea since the skin is so easily irritated. It may not be suitable for people with darker skin tones.

Electrolysis is very safe. Very slight risks of infection (from an unsterile needle) or scarring exist if the electrolysis is not done correctly. These risks are very low if you choose a certified, professional electrolysis practice. You may have a slight reddening of the skin during or right after treatment.

Absolute Contra-Indications – Requires a Doctor's Note: Diabetes, heart condition, hemophilia, pacemaker, seizures, transplant, surgery.

In a similar way to laser treatments, electrolysis uses intense heat to destroy hair follicles, but this heat may also burn and damage the skin if the beauty technician carrying out the treatment commits an error. Mistakes may result in permanent scarring, discolouration and changes in skin pigmentation.

Scarring - Not immediately obvious scarring can take weeks or months to materialize. This is the most common side effect or complication of thermolysis.

Another major drawback of the electrolysis method is that it can't be done for a large body surface area, and it also sometimes leads to scar formation. Laser hair removal requires fewer sessions than electrolysis. Laser hair removal usually takes about 4 to 8 sessions for best results.

Some hairs will grow back after electrolysis. However, as you undergo more and more sessions, the number of hairs that grow back each time decreases. If the hair doesn't regrow after more than three months, it will never come back again.

Hormones and medicines can cause unwanted hair growth, and can continue to do so even after electrolysis sessions. In some cases, hair removal history and failure to follow your treatment plan can lead to unsuccessful electrolysis as well.

What happens when you stop electrolysis? ›

We cannot know how many hairs will eventually grow or when your body will stimulate new growth. It is therefore very important that electrolysis is performed upon the detection of re-growth. Left untreated, hair will reconstitute itself to its original diameter and depth.

However, it's important to remember – the results last forever. Indeed, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) consider electrolysis the only permanent hair removal method.

Yes! Electrolysis safely and permanently removes all types of hair from all skin tones. No other hair-removal solution can claim the universal acceptability and success offered by electrolysis treatments.

Most areas of the body can be treated with electrolysis, including the eyebrows, face, abdomen, thighs, breasts, and legs. There are generally no permanent side effects, but sometimes a temporary, slight reddening of the skin may occur.

These dark spots are a sign that the skin is doing it's job and healing the irritated area; they will fade over time. Do not use a bleaching cream on these areas as this can cause light spots (hypopigmentation) when the skin returns to normal.

Dr Emma Wedgeworth, consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson, explains that electrolysis has become less popular with the introduction of laser hair removal because it is much more time-consuming (hairs are zapped individually) and requires weekly appointments for a year or more.

Chemical safety: Water electrolysis involves the use of strong acids or bases as electrolytes, which can be corrosive and hazardous if not handled properly. Safety measures such as protective clothing, eye protection, and proper storage and handling of chemicals should be in place.