Electrolysis is a method of removing individual hairs from the face or body by destroying the growth center of the hair with chemical or heat energy. Todays medical electrolysis devices destroy the growth center of the hair with chemical or heat energy. After a very fine probe is inserted into the hair follicle, the hair is removed with tweezers. Most areas of the body can be treated with electrolysis, including the eyebrows, face, abdomen, thighs, breasts, and legs. There are generally no permanent side effects, but sometimes a temporary, slight reddening of the skin may occur.
The cost of electrolysis hair removal depends on the size of the area being treated and the number of sessions required for the best results. Electrolysis is not covered by insurance. There are also home electrolysis devices available, but they are often unsafe for use by anyone who is not trained in electrolysis.
Some benefits of electrolysis hair removal include longer-lasting effects compared to shaving, and it is the only technique for permanent hair removal, according to the FDA. However, electrolysis must be spread out over more sessions and cannot cover large areas at once like laser hair removal can.
The different types of electrolysis hair removal methods include:
- Galvanic electrolysis: creates a chemical reaction from a direct current and works well on thick, coarse, and dark hair.
- Thermolysis: generates heat from an alternating current to damage the base of a hair follicle. It’s a quick way to remove hair, but regrowth can occur.
- Blend method: combines galvanic and thermolysis techniques.
The ingredients or materials used in electrolysis hair removal include a very fine probe that is inserted into the hair follicle and chemical or heat energy to destroy the growth center of the hair.
