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Electrolysis Hair Removal

Electrolysis hair removal is the only method approved by the FDA for permanent hair removal. It does require multiple sessions to achieve best possible results, but permanent hair removal isn't 100% guaranteed for everyone.

How Does Electrolysis Work?

An electric current is applied with a very fine needle-shaped electrode, or metal probe into each hair follicle to destroy the root. There are three types of electrolysis: galvanic, thermolysis and blend.

Hair grows in different stages: growing, resting and shedding. Because all of the hair isn't on the same stage at any given time, multiple sessions are needed to get the hair in the growth phase for electrolysis hair removal to be most effective- just like laser hair removal.

The Pros of Electrolysis Hair Removal

1. It has the best track record. Electrolysis has the best overall results, versus any other method, in ridding hair for long periods of time- or even permanently.

2. Many different hair and skin types can benefit. Because it doesn't target hair pigment (color) like laser, but attacks the follicle itself. People that aren't good candidates for laser can still get electrolysis.

The Cons of Electrolysis Hair Removal

1. Bent follicles can make electrolysis hair removal harder. Previous waxing or tweezing can make hair follicles bent or misshapen, and getting the needle to the root more difficult to destroy the follicle.

2. Multiple treatments are needed. You have to truly be committed to electrolysis because you will need anywhere from 15 - 30 sessions, which will take up a considerable amount of your time.

3. Skin can get discolored. This is most likely to occur if it's improperly done.

4. It's can be pricey. See below, under The Costs heading.

Ouch Factor
Everyone has their own tolerance to pain. Electrolysis has been likened to a stinging and pricking sensation, and each follicle has to go through it.

Electrolysis or Laser - Which One Is the Best?

Laser hair removal is quickly becoming more popular than electrolysis, because it is easier, faster, and more pain-free.

When removing your unwanted hair with laser, the area is treated in a wider way than in electrolysis, which each thread of hair must be treated. So doing the process one by one on each and every hair takes a long time, as you can imagine. Not to mention it will be more painful.

That is why it is generally recommended to choose laser over electrolysis. The only exception is if you have a darker skin color with a light hair color. In that case, laser hair removal won't work for you and the only option is electrolysis.