Electrolysis hair removal is the only method approved by the FDA for permanent hair removal. It does require multiple sessions to achieve the best possible results, but permanent hair removal is not 100% guaranteed for every client.
How Does It Work?
An electric current is applied with a very fine needle-shaped electrode, or metal probe into each hair follicle to destroy the root. There are three types of electrolysis: Galvanic, Thermolysis & Blend.
Hair grows in different stages: Growing, Resting & Shedding. Because all of the hair is not on the same stage at any given time, multiple sessions are needed to get the hair growth for electrolysis hair removal to be most effective – just like laser hair removal.
The Pros
1. It has the best track record. Electrolysis has the best overall results, versus any other method, in ridding hair for long periods of time – or even permanently.
2. Many different hair and skin types can benefit. Because it does not target hair pigment (colour) like laser, but attacks the follicle itself. People that are not good candidates for laser treatment can still get electrolysis.
The Cons
1. Bent follicles can make electrolysis hair removal harder. Previous waxing or tweezing can make hair follicles bent or misshapen, and getting the needle to the root becomes more difficult to destroy the follicle.
2. Multiple treatments are needed. You have to be truly committed to electrolysis because you will need anywhere from 15- 30 sessions, which will take up a considerable amount of your time.
3. Skin can get discoloured. This is most likely to occur if the procedure is improperly done.
4. It can be pricey with an average 30-minute session starting from £65, depending on the amount of hair.
Ouch Factor
Everyone has their own tolerance to pain. Electrolysis has been likened to a stinging and pricking sensation, and each follicle has to go through it. It tends to be more painful than waxing and IPL hair removal.