Electrolysis Hair Removal (2024)

Electrolysis Hair Removal

Electrolysis can lead to permanent hair removal. A hair thin metal probe is inserted into an individual hair follicle. An electrical current is delivered into the follicle through the probe causing localised damage to the areas that produce hairs, either by overheating (thermolysis), formation of caustic sodium hydroxide (galvanic) or both (the blend method).

Electrolysis was first invented in 1875 and is proven to be safe and effective. Advancing technology means that electrolysis has become more gentle and more comfortable, even more effective and remains an increasingly popular, affordable, modern treatment. Equally effective as a stand-alone treatment or as part of a programme including IPL/laser.

Electrolysis is perfect for treating small areas that IPL/laser cannot treat.

It is suitable for any skin colour and any hair colour.

IS IT SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE?

There are certain medical conditions that electrolysis would not be a suitable treatment choice. The best plan is to book a consultation where this can be discussed. Here are a few definite contraindications for electrolysis treatment: pacemaker fitted; cochlear implants, haemophilia; keloid scarring; metal pins/plates in area of treatment. Electrolysis can only be performed on healthy skin. If there is any evidence of a skin disease or disorder in the treatable area the treatment may not be performed.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS OF ELECTROLYSIS?

When electrolysis is performed correctly by a skilled electrologist it is perfectly safe. Immediately after treatment it is normal for the skin to be sensitised with a pink appearance. This reaction is temporary and should return to normal within 24 hours. Following your treatment an aftercare product will be applied to calm and soothe the area protecting it from an unwanted reaction. A small pot of the same product will be given to you to use in the following 48 hours.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

This is down to the individual. Electrolysis treats each individual hair repeatedly as gently as possible so the hairs become weaker and no tissue damage is caused. The cause of hair growth will influence the number of treatments required. A treatment plan will be discussed with you to give you some indication of commitment required as permanent hair removal is not a ‘quick fix’. Each hair requires more than one treatment because each individual hair has its own growing cycle and blood supply. Treatment courses are therefore imperative.

WHAT DO I DO ABOUT MY HAIRS IN BETWEEN TREATMENTS?

There may be some hair growth between treatments. To manage this, you should only trim the hairs. Tweezing, waxing and threading must be avoided during a course of electrolysis as this will interfere with the root of the hair and affect results and there needs to be enough growth to be able to remove the hair from the follicle following treatment.

DOES ELECTROLYSIS HURT?

Electrolysis can be a little uncomfortable for many people but others can fall asleep during treatment. The sensation experienced can be a tingle, heat or a minor sting. Everyone’s pain threshold is different which can be affected by an individual’s: health; stress; time of menstruation; area to be treated; strength and size of hair; skin sensitivity and the type of current used. However, electrolysis works so any minor discomfort is well worth the results.

HOW LONG DOES AN ELECTROLYSIS TREATMENT TAKE?

For electrolysis there is no ‘typical’ treatment as all patients are treated as individuals. Treatments can vary from a short 10 minutes appointment up to 2 to 3 hours treatment depending on the area being treated.

HOW MUCH DOES AN ELECTROLYSIS TREATMENT COST?

• 15 minutes £30

• 30 minutes £50

• 45 minutes £70

• 60 minutes £90

AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS

For the following 24 - 48 hours after electrolysis:

• DO NOT sunbathe or have any other heat treatment (sunbed, sauna, steam facial)

• DO NOT take hot baths or showers

• DO NOT swim

• DO NOT apply makeup to the treated area

• DO NOT apply soap or perfumed products to the treated area

• DO NOT wear tight clothing over treated body area

• DO NOT touch the treated area

• Apply given soothing gel with clean cotton pad, not fingers

• Gently cleanse around the area and pat dry with a clean tissue

• DO NOT pick any scabs that may form in the following 48 hours