Electrolysis is a hair removal method that can permanently eliminate unwanted hair. Dr. Charles Michel, an ophthalmologist who was looking for a way to remove ingrown eyelashes, invented the technique in 1875. Modern technology has led to improvements in Michel's technique, making the treatments faster and more comfortable.
Method
An electrologist inserts a tiny needle into the hair follicle and delivers a small electrical current to its base. The procedure destroys the hair growth tissue and prevents the hair from growing back, according to the American Electrology Association. Multiple treatments are frequently necessary to destroy all of the unwanted hair. Each treatment session may last from 15 minutes to over one hour, according to the American Electrology Association.
Advantages
The main advantage of electrolysis is that it can be a permanent form of hair removal. It is the only permanent hair removal treatment recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, according to the American Electrology Association. Although it takes a commitment of time and money at the beginning, if the treatments are successful, you will not have to spend time or money on temporary hair removal methods in the future.
Disadvantages
Even though electrolysis is considered a permanent hair removal method, some people may have hair grow back, according to The Nemours Foundation. Electrolysis can be expensive and time consuming, especially if you have a lot of hair that needs to be removed. The procedure can cause pain or discomfort, and you may experience skin irritation after treatment. While electrolysis is considered safe, according to The Cleveland Clinic, there are risks. Rarely, the procedure may result in scarring, and infection is a possibility if the equipment is not sterilized properly.
Considerations
The result you get with electrolysis depends heavily upon the skill level of your electrologist. The American Electrology Association recommends choosing a Certified Professional Electrologist, or CPE. When you select a CPE, you can be sure the technician has satisfied the education and testing requirements set forth by the American Electrology Association. Check to see if the electrologist has a current practitioner's certificate if your state requires electrologists to be licensed, and check for a certificate from an accredited electrology school, recommends the Cleveland Clinic.
Warning
If you have a bad feeling about an electrologist or the location, choose another business. Look for warning signs like a dirty office, workers not wearing gloves or an unprofessional technician, recommends the Cleveland Clinic. Before you agree to a session, make sure the electrologist practices needle electrolysis. The Cleveland Clinic warns that some businesses that advertise electrolysis may only use electronic tweezers to remove hair.
Member Comments