Electrolysis: Definition & Treatment (2024)

FAQs

What is the meaning of electrolysis treatment? ›

What is electrolysis? Electrolysis is a hair removal treatment. A trained electrologist inserts a thin wire into the hair follicle under the surface of the skin. An electric current moves down the wire to the bottom of the follicle, destroying the hair root.

electrolysis, process by which electric current is passed through a substance to effect a chemical change. The chemical change is one in which the substance loses or gains an electron (oxidation or reduction).

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.

The intention is to destroy the hair follicle so that it doesn't stimulate new hair growth. This procedure needs to be done by a dermatologist or a certified electrologist. Unlike other hair removal options, electrolysis is considered a permanent solution by the Food and Drug Administration.

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.

“On average, between 10 and 14 treatments are needed for extensive electrolysis in a particular area,” says Green. Each electrolysis session is typically done every four to six weeks. Therefore, the completion of electrolysis treatments can take a minimum of one year.

Electrolysis – is the result of potential current existing between two different objects. It is normally caused by stray electrical current. Electrolysis is much more destructive than galvanic corrosion. To prevent electrolysis, the vessel must be wired properly and outside sources of stray current must be identified.

Electrolysis is the process of using electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. This reaction takes place in a unit called an electrolyzer.

Another major drawback of the electrolysis method is that it can't be done for a large body surface area, and it also sometimes leads to scar formation. Laser hair removal requires fewer sessions than electrolysis. Laser hair removal usually takes about 4 to 8 sessions for best results.

How painful is electrolysis? ›

The pain sensation that some associate with electrolysis is quite short, many saying that it hurts for a fraction of a second. The general level of pain varies greatly location to location, day to day, person to person.

One common question that often arises is whether electrolysis hair removal is covered by insurance. In general, health insurance companies will not reimburse for electrolysis treatments under any circ*mstances, as excessive hair growth is considered a cosmetic problem.

You should stop shaving for at least 2 days before your appointment. For more information please read Pre-Electrolysis Care Instructions.

Myth 2: Electrolysis is 100% successful

About 93% of electrolysis procedures yield permanent success, an excellent number for hair removal procedures. Remember, electrolysis does not work for everyone, and the chance for regrowth is still there, though very slight.

Electrolysis tends to be more expensive than laser hair removal because it requires more sessions to see full results. And treating larger areas of the body with electrolysis will add up quickly.

Electrolysis is considered a more permanent solution than laser hair removal (it stops hair growth completely while laser hair removal slows and reduces hair growth), but it requires more individual sessions (closer to 14), and the sessions can take longer. You might not see full results for nearly 18 months.

Electrolysis hair removal offers many benefits, including improved complexion and rejuvenated, healthier-looking skin. Galvanic needling is a safe, effective, and non-invasive way to stimulate collagen production in the skin.