Electrolysis
- Procedures
- Body
- Electrolysis
Evidence Based
Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved permanent hair removal method. This procedure can be used to treat unwanted hair growth with either chemicals or electricity.
E
Written By: Erin Storm, PA-C
Article History
Procedure Overview
Concerns
Ideal Candidate
Recovery
Side Effects
Results
Average Cost
Pros
- Permanent Hair Removal
- Proven Effective
Cons
- Many Sessions
- Consistent Treatment
- Expensive
Invasiveness Score
mildmoderatesevere
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
The Skinny
Average Recovery
1 weeks
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Thermal Treatment
Surgical
No
Cost
$30 - $20000
The Specifics
What is electrolysis?
Electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal cosmetic procedure available with approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While IPL and laser hair removal eliminate hair temporarily and slow regrowth, electrolysis permanently destroys the hair follicle.
There are three variations of electrolysis:
Galvanic
Thermolysis
A combination of the two
Galvanic hair removal uses electricity and chemical reactions to destroy hair follicles; it is slow and often best used for thick, coarse, and dark hair. Thermolysis uses heat delivered to the base of the hair follicle to irrevocably damage it; this method is faster, but less effective than the galvanic. The blend method or dual action method combines both of these techniques for an efficient, fast hair removal solution.
What cosmetic concerns does an electrolysis procedure treat?
Unwanted Hair: Regardless of the method used, electrolysis permanently destroys hair follicles and impedes the body’s ability for hair growth in the treated areas.
Who is the ideal candidate for an electrolysis procedure?
The ideal candidate for electrolysis is seeking permanent hair removal for unwanted hair on the face and body. Electrolysis is not recommended for those with active skin infections, keloid scarring, hemophilia, those on anticoagulants, or those who have undergone dermabrasion or facial plastic surgery within the past six months.
What is the average recovery associated with an electrolysis procedure?
Most patients experience one to two weeks of recovery time following an electrolysis procedure. Scabbing develops within one to two days, and resolves within two weeks. Patients are advised not to manipulate the treated area, avoid sun exposure, and limit activity for the first few days.
What are the potential side effects of an electrolysis procedure?
Possible side effects following an electrolysis procedure include tenderness, redness, swelling, scarring, and pitting of the skin.
What can someone expect from the results of an electrolysis procedure?
The results of electrolysis will develop over a series of initial treatments spaced one to four weeks apart dependent on the candidate. Once the desired results have been achieved, they are permanent.
What is the average cost of an electrolysis procedure?
An electrolysis procedure can cost anywhere from $50 to $5,000. The actual cost of electrolysis is dependent upon location, hair loss specialist or dermatologist, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure. Learn more in our [complete guide to the cost of electrolysis](https://aedit.com/procedure/electrolysis/cost).
Pros
- Permanent Hair Removal
- Proven Effective
Cons
- Many Sessions
- Consistent Treatment
- Expensive
Invasiveness Score
mildmoderatesevere
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Electrolysis is the only FDA approved method of permanent hair removal. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after electrolysis.
Before Treatment
- Stop hair removal treatments 2-3 weeks prior
- Shave 5-7 days before
During Treatment: Galvanic
A fine probe is inserted into individual hair follicles and uses an electric current to help the hair break away from other components, never to join again.
During Treatment: Thermolysis
A fine probe is inserted into individual hair follicles and heats up the hair to help the hair break away from other components, never to join again.
During Treatment: Thermolysis
The third method combines the previous two techniques into what is known as the "blend" method. Electric currents and heat energy destroy each hair more effectively and quicker than the galvanic and thermolytic methods alone.
Immediately After Treatment
- Redness or swelling
- Minor scabbing which can develop 24-48 hours after the procedure
1-14 Days After Treatment and Beyond
- Scabbing heals in 7-14
- Do not use any temporary hair removal methods
- Do not touch treated for 48 hours
- Avoid sun exposure
- No strenuous exercise for 1-2 days
- Avoid skincare products for 24 hours
Result Notes
- Permanent once desired effects are achieved
- Number of sessions needed will vary
- Most patients return once every 1-4 weeks
Before Treatment
- Stop hair removal treatments 2-3 weeks prior
- Shave 5-7 days before
During Treatment: Galvanic
A fine probe is inserted into individual hair follicles and uses an electric current to help the hair break away from other components, never to join again.
During Treatment: Thermolysis
A fine probe is inserted into individual hair follicles and heats up the hair to help the hair break away from other components, never to join again.
During Treatment: Thermolysis
The third method combines the previous two techniques into what is known as the "blend" method. Electric currents and heat energy destroy each hair more effectively and quicker than the galvanic and thermolytic methods alone.
Immediately After Treatment
- Redness or swelling
- Minor scabbing which can develop 24-48 hours after the procedure
1-14 Days After Treatment and Beyond
- Scabbing heals in 7-14
- Do not use any temporary hair removal methods
- Do not touch treated for 48 hours
- Avoid sun exposure
- No strenuous exercise for 1-2 days
- Avoid skincare products for 24 hours
Result Notes
- Permanent once desired effects are achieved
- Number of sessions needed will vary
- Most patients return once every 1-4 weeks
Before Treatment
- Stop hair removal treatments 2-3 weeks prior
- Shave 5-7 days before
During Treatment: Galvanic
A fine probe is inserted into individual hair follicles and uses an electric current to help the hair break away from other components, never to join again.
During Treatment: Thermolysis
A fine probe is inserted into individual hair follicles and heats up the hair to help the hair break away from other components, never to join again.
During Treatment: Thermolysis
The third method combines the previous two techniques into what is known as the "blend" method. Electric currents and heat energy destroy each hair more effectively and quicker than the galvanic and thermolytic methods alone.
Immediately After Treatment
- Redness or swelling
- Minor scabbing which can develop 24-48 hours after the procedure
1-14 Days After Treatment and Beyond
- Scabbing heals in 7-14
- Do not use any temporary hair removal methods
- Do not touch treated for 48 hours
- Avoid sun exposure
- No strenuous exercise for 1-2 days
- Avoid skincare products for 24 hours
Result Notes
- Permanent once desired effects are achieved
- Number of sessions needed will vary
- Most patients return once every 1-4 weeks
The Takeaway
Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal solution FDA approved to damage hair follicles and cease hair growth in the treated areas.
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