Both sexes have tried to remove hair from various parts of their bodies, whether by shaving or waxing. Women, especially, often get tired of using a razor every week or even every day. But what if you could have your unwanted hair removed—forever? There are two primary hair removal treatments, one of which is electrolysis. Here’s a guide to the procedure so you can determine if it’s the right choice for you.
The technical definition of electrolysis is the process of separating chemical bonds with an electric current. While diving into the details of electrolysis might bore or confuse you, let’s focus on what electrolysis means on a more practical level.
Electrolysis is used by skilled professionals to permanently remove body hair. However, there are several disadvantages to it that you should keep in mind before you consider signing up. But first, let’s go over the basics of electrolysis.
An electrologist uses a tiny metal probe, which is inserted into each individual hair follicle, without actually breaking the skin. The probe then gently delivers an electric current to the follicle, essentially “deactivating” the part of the follicle where hair originates. The benefit of electrolysis is that it is a safe procedure, one that has been performed for over a century, and it is generally quite effective.
However, there are enough downsides to electrolysis that make it an unpopular option for those looking to remove unwanted hair, whether on their legs, backs, or elsewhere. Many people prefer waxing, shaving, or even laser hair removal before opting for electrolysis. And in some cases, that may be the better choice.
Is Electrolysis Right for You?
Electrolysis, while safe, is a grueling process. Unless you’re only removing hair from a small area of your body, it can take a long time for the electrologist to insert the metal probe into each hair follicle and deliver the electric current. This would be more tolerable if it weren’t so painful. Electrolysis is typically a painful procedure, though many clients have managed it well, claiming it wasn’t as painful as expected. That said, it can be expensive—around $150 per hour of treatment—which adds up if you need multiple sessions. Additionally, you may experience some temporary skin redness after the procedure.
Some people are simply not good candidates for electrolysis. For those with a lot of hair, electrolysis can be an impractical choice because it’s such a time-consuming process. Furthermore, if you have an inexperienced electrologist, it may not be worth the trouble. Incorrectly performed electrolysis can lead to hair regrowth, skin damage, or even infection. Electrolysis is one of those procedures where the outcome depends largely on the skill of the electrologist.
It’s also important to note that up to 10% of clients may experience hair regrowth. This could be due to the fact that in many U.S. states, electrologists are not heavily regulated. While there are set standards, some practitioners get away with sloppy work due to weak oversight in certain states. However, this should only be a minor concern. Studies have shown that over 90% of those who choose electrolysis are satisfied with the results. For them, electrolysis offers permanent hair removal, unlike waxing or shaving. You will need more than one treatment, depending on how much hair you want removed.
The major takeaway from this discussion is that electrolysis could be a good option for you, as long as you carefully select a skilled electrologist. And of course, you should ensure that you’re a good candidate for the procedure! If you don’t have a lot of hair but are eager to remove it, electrolysis is one of the safest methods. However, you may find that the pain and time commitment aren’t worth it. If you’re concerned about safety, check out your state’s regulation policies on electrolysis, and research electrologists thoroughly. Have a face-to-face conversation with your chosen professional before the procedure begins, and don’t hesitate to express any concerns.
Electrolysis continues to improve as new research and technology evolve. While it may not seem like the best option for you now, it could become a great fit in the future as more of the small issues are addressed.
