What is Electrolysis / FAQ — Amy Rosofsky Electrolysis (2024)

FAQs

What is a downside to electrolysis? ›

Electrolysis Cons

It's a time-consuming procedure requiring multiple sessions. Skin discoloration is a possibility. The electricity in the device can actually destroy the capillaries in the surrounding areas. It can be very painful. It is not recommended for people with rosacea since the skin is so easily irritated.

How much does electrolysis cost? The cost of electrolysis hair removal can vary depending on the size of the area being treated and the number of sessions needed. A one-hour session can range anywhere from £50 to £250, depending on the area being treated.

Because electrolysis destroys the hair follicle, hair can never grow back. It's effective for the greatest range of skin and hair types. Electrolysis is the only method approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for permanently removing unwanted hair.

Yes, electrolysis safely and permanently removes hair from all skin tones. It is the only FDA-approved permanent hair removal treatment. Because electrolysis permanently destroys the growth cells in the hair follicles, the hair will not grow back.

Electrolysis is not as popular as laser hair removal for a few reasons: Longer Treatment Time: As mentioned, treating each hair follicle one by one makes electrolysis a much lengthier process. Discomfort: The procedure can be more uncomfortable, which deters some people from opting for it.

Absolute Contra-Indications – Requires a Doctor's Note: Diabetes, heart condition, hemophilia, pacemaker, seizures, transplant, surgery.

Electrolysis only destroys about 35 percent of hair follicles per session, says Elise, so it can take up to 18 electrolysis sessions spaced three to four weeks apart to completely remove hair from a single area, says Elise. Remember: Permanence takes time, especially when you factor in how your hair grows.

The total number of sessions needed to remove hair permanently from a particular area will vary from person to person. On average, it takes around 12 months to complete 8 to 12 electrolysis sessions. However, the duration may range from 8 months up to 2 years in certain cases.

The Benefits of Electrolysis

Our experts gave a resounding "yes," touting the procedure for its ability to make the skin hair-free for good. Though electrolysis requires lengthy sessions (15 to 60 minutes) spaced one month apart (for roughly 12 to 30 sessions in total), Dr.

Electrolysis does not depend on the pigment of the hair (unlike lasers) and permanently removes of the hair irrespective of the colour of the hair (grey, blond or white) or the color of the skin (dark, tan, white or brown).

Does tweezing ruin electrolysis? ›

Plucking, waxing, threading, or tweezing before your hair removal appointment reduces the number of hairs your electrologist can remove. Rest assured that electrology is the only hair removal method recognized as permanent by the FDA.

Please don't shave the area prior to your appointment

We're often asked if you need to shave or trim your hair before electrolysis (as you might before a laser treatment). The answer is no – in fact, as you'll read in the next tip, we ask that you don't shave the area at least 3 days before your treatment.

Electrolysis Hair Removal For The Bikini Line

Electrolysis for the bikini line may be performed through an open method, which uses tiny needles and applies local anaesthesia or numbing cream (e.g., lidocaine), or via electrocoagulation of follicles with a probe.

It is therefore very important that electrolysis is performed upon the detection of re-growth. Left untreated, hair will reconstitute itself to its original diameter and depth. Once a treatment program begins, it is important that appointments are kept to the predetermined schedule set at the beginning of your program.

Electrolysis can discolor skin - It's rare, but if the hair isn't hit precisely, it can cause hyperpigmentation to the surrounding skin. The damage is minor and depends on the skin reaction of each individual. Also, damage can be mitigated by a highly skilled technician, as well as the use of sunscreen.

Electrolysis treatments result in minor lesions which do not result in scars, however, over-treatment and improper aftercare and previous skin care can result in damage to the skin known as pitting. Loss of pigment at the site of the follicle may occur with over-treatment on dark skin.

Most side effects of electrolysis are mild but may include redness, swelling, blisters, scabs, dryness, and ingrown hairs. The commonest complication of the electrolysis is the skin edema. After treatment, your skin may be red, swollen (inflamed), and tender. These are temporary side effects.

Due to the nature and cause of hair growth, there are special cases where electrolysis is not successful. Hormones and medicines can cause unwanted hair growth, and can continue to do so even after electrolysis sessions.