How does Electrolysis Work?

Removing unwanted body hair can be a frustrating problem and many people feel that they are consistently shaving or waxing to maintain hairless skin. Another option is available however, electrolysis, which promises to deliver long lasting results. This procedure works by inserting a needle into the hair root, under the skin, and applying an electrical current which will damage the hair so deeply that re-growth is difficult.

The most positive aspect of electrolysis is that it has consistently proven itself to be the most effective way of removing hair on a long term basis, with some patients even reporting permanent hair loss. The downside however, is that most people find the treatment to be very painful. Moreover, as each hair is targeted individually and needs to be at the correct stage in the growth cycle, multiple procedures (sometimes up to 30) are required and each of these can be quite long. This means that, unlike laser hair removal, electrolysis may not be ideal for those looking for large areas of hair to be removed.

On the other hand, for people with Black or Afro-Caribbean skin, electrolysis may offer the best solution in long term hair removal. Whereas the lasers used in laser hair removal are designed to target melanin and therefore put people with darker skin at greater risk of burning, electrolysis works in such a way that skin type is not an issue. 

With regards to common side effects, most associated with electrolysis are mild and temporary such as skin swelling or reddening and scabs or dry patches appearing. As with laser hair removal, it is recommended that the affected area is protected against the sun after treatment. If done incorrectly, electrolysis may cause skin damage or scarring and for this reason it is vital to ensure that the person who will carry out your treatment is reputable and experienced.

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