How does electrolysis work?

Electrolysis treats each hair individually with a very fine, disposable, sterile probe. The probe is inserted into the hair follicle, which is a natural opening in the skin, then a very small amount of energy is discharged into the hair follicle, this destroys the growth centre of the hair using heat (thermolysis), chemical (galvanic) or both (blend).

Which areas can be treated?

Most areas of the body can be treated using electrolysis, apart from the inside of the nose and inner ear. Areas commonly treated include top lip, chin, neck, cheeks, breasts, bikini line, legs, eyebrows, and underarms.

What is the difference between laser & electrolysis?

Laser usually treats large areas of skin using a laser or light based lamp which can reduce hair growth but does not remove all the hair permanently.  Laser hair removal only works if the hair is darker than the person’s skin colour, therefore generally will not work on very blonde or white hair, whereas electrolysis can be used to treat all hair colours.

Permanent hair removal with electrolysis requires a longer course of treatments as opposed to laser, but results in complete and permanent removal of the hair.

Laser in some cases can stimulate more hair growth, especially if the client has hormonal issues such as PCOS or hirsutism, this is called paradoxical hypertrichosis. 

Does electrolysis hurt?

Now this really depends on the individual’s pain threshold, most clients find electrolysis tolerable. If you were to find it uncomfortable then you can use a numbing cream to make it more bearable for you or we would opt for shorter sessions. The up to date electrolysis machine we use has a flash modality meaning the zap from the heat current is extremely quick, this makes the procedure so much easier for the client to go through and also means less reaction to the skin.

Why should I choose electrolysis over other hair removal methods?

Electrolysis is the only form of hair removal that is 100% permanent, so while it may seem like a big investment of time and money, there is a finish line! Unlike any other method of hair removal that you will be doing for the rest of your life. Waxing, plucking, and threading actually make the hair growth worse, when you pull the hair from the root, the body takes this as the follicle is under attack and will work to build up the follicle and make it stronger thus producing thicker and stronger hairs – scary hey! Laser is a reduction at best but can also cause a stimulation of hair growth. When you think of the alternatives it’s really a no brainer!

How many treatments will I need?

Many factors influence hair growth, the length of each appointment and the number of treatments needed will vary from person to person. The time treatment will take can depend on hair density, hair texture, the area being treated, previous hair removal treatments used, and how well skin heals between treatments. It is worth investing in electrolysis because it is a permanent method of hair removal and each follicle is treated individually to destroy the follicle. We must remember even when we destroy the hair follicles from the hairs we see that there are other dormant follicles under the skin that will grow, hair does not grow all at the same time so you will need to have every hair treated, this is a waiting game and this is why I usually say electrolysis can take up to 1-2 years. 

What does the skin look like after electrolysis?

The skin will generally be a little red, there may be some localised swelling, this should disappear reasonably quickly depending on skin sensitivity and skin type. Some clients will get some small pin prick scabbing, this is completely normal and must not be picked by the client. 

Is Electrolysis safe?

Electrolysis has been around since 1875, although it has definitely been improved since then! It is a completely safe procedure.

Does Electrolysis damage the skin?

Electrolysis when done correctly does not damage the skin. During your consultation we will go through aftercare procedures with you, this will ensure that you know how to take care of your skin after your treatment.