Electrolysis
Electrolysis is a way of removing individual hairs from the face or body.
Today's medical electrolysis devices destroy the growth center of the hair with
chemical or heat energy. A very fine probe is inserted into the hair follicle
at the surface of the skin. The hair is then removed harmlessly with
forceps.
What causes unwanted hair growth?
Hair growth is the result of heredity and hormonal levels. Also, some drugs,
temporary methods of hair removal, and some illnesses can stimulate hair
growth. Usually, hair growth is desirable. But when the hair is the wrong part
of your body—a woman's upper lip or chin, the hands or arms—you may be
considering electrolysis.
How many treatments will I need?
Since many factors influence hair growth, you will need to return for
several visits. The total number of sessions needed to remove hair permanently
from a particular area will vary from person to person. Most clients return
once a week or every other week, as necessary. But the unwanted hair will be
gone forever once the series of treatments have been completed. Each treatment
lasts between 15 minutes and one hour.
Myths about electrolysis
Electrolysis is painful. The truth is, electrolysis usually does not cause
much discomfort. Modern electrolysis methods have reduced the discomfort to a
mere tingling. A topical anesthetic may be used in some cases.
The electric tweezer method is permanent. The truth is, the Food and Drug
Administration and the American Medical Association recognize only electrolysis
as a permanent method of removing hair. In fact, some states prohibit those who
use the electric tweezer—which can also be purchased for consumer use—from
claiming it provides permanent hair removal.
Temporary methods of hair removal are better. The truth is, that while chemical
depilatories (liquids or creams) are often used to remove body hair, these
products contain irritating chemicals, and can be time-consuming and messy.
Likewise, bleaches contain harsh chemicals and do little to disguise dark hair.
They may also discolor the skin. Waxing is another temporary method of hair
removal and is usually done in salons. A hot wax is applied to the skin and
removed once it has dried over the hair. The hair is stripped off when the wax
is removed. Waxing can be painful and costly. Home waxing kits are available,
but they can be difficult to use and messy. There are electrical electrolysis
devices available for home use that try to copy the devices used by
professionals. These devices are often unsafe for use by anyone who is not
trained in electrolysis.
Next: Facts about electrolysis »
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