Electrolysis is Permanent Hair Removal (2024)

FAQs

Electrolysis is Permanent Hair Removal? ›

Electrolysis has been approved by the FDA as a method for permanent hair removal. While other methods like waxing, shaving, and laser hair removal offer temporary results, electrolysis can provide a lasting solution.

Yes. Unlike other hair removal methods that offer a temporary solution, Electrolysis is permanent and is the only FDA approved method of permanent hair removal.

Yes, electrolysis safely and permanently removes hair from all skin tones.

Unlike other hair removal options, electrolysis is considered a permanent solution by the Food and Drug Administration. However, for best results, you will need multiple follow-up appointments. Most people need follow-up sessions every week or two.

The total number of sessions needed to remove hair permanently from a particular area will vary from person to person. On average, it takes around 12 months to complete 8 to 12 electrolysis sessions. However, the duration may range from 8 months up to 2 years in certain cases.

Hormonal changes can affect hair regrowth after electrolysis hair removal. Hormones can stimulate hair growth, even in areas that have been treated with electrolysis. Hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by pregnancy, menopause, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can result in hair regrowth after electrolysis.

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.

Electrolysis Cons

It's a time-consuming procedure requiring multiple sessions. Skin discoloration is a possibility. 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.

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.

A one-hour session can range anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the area being treated. Electrolysis hair removal is often more expensive compared to other methods, but it is more effective in the long run as the results are permanent.

What happens if 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.

Electrolysis can be used to permanently remove hair on all areas of the human body. Your surgeon may request that genital hair is removed prior to Gender Confirmation Surgery.

The following pre-treatment care suggestions should be followed to ensure the best results possible. Let your hair grow out to 1/8” or 2mm, and shave 2,3 days before your appointment. We need enough length to be able to grab the hair with tweezers.

Your electrologist — There will always be a certain amount of regrowth, even when electrolysis is performed by a skilled operator. The average killing rate is 50-60 % with 60-75% being roughly the highest level possible.

Expect to go through around eight to twelve sessions for a permanent result. That may seem like a lot. 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.

Electrolysis can be expected to kill 50 to 60 percent of hair follicles during any one session. Therefore, you can reasonably expect a 40 to 50 percent regrowth of hair in the following weeks or months (assuming all growing hairs are successfully killed). That's true of every session.