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What is electrolysis?
Electrolysis refers to the destruction of hair roots with an electric current. Three types of electrolysis are:(1) Galvanic, (2) Thermolysis and (3) Blend.
(1) Galvanic Method
A DC current passing through the needle causes a chemical reaction in the hair follicle which produces sodium hydroxide, also know as lye, which destroys the hair follicle.
(2) Thermolysis Method
An AC current passing through the needle causes vibration in the water molecules surrounding the hair follicle which produces heat. (Similar to the principle behind a microwave oven.) The heat damages the hair follicle. This method is much faster but less reliable than galvanic electrolysis. Thermolysis is also known as 'short-wave radio frequency diathermy'.
(3) Blend Method
This method tries to combine the benefits of the galvanic and thermolysis methods by passing an AC and a DC current through the needle at the same time. It is much quicker than the galvanic method.
How does it work?
Very fine metal probes are inserted into the hair follicle. A small electric current is then applied which destroys the hair root. Each hair has to be treated individually. (See item above for description of various electrolysis methods.)
How much does it cost?
Usually there is a rate per hour. Get an estimate of how many hours are required for your particular problem and then multiply it by the rate per hour. A cheap hourly rate does not necessarily mean lower cost if the procedure takes longer than it should!
Quotations can vary from $25 to $100 per hour.
Is it painful?
This depends on the individual's level of sensitivity. Some describe the discomfort as being similar to using tweezers. Others complain of excessive pain during the treatment. A qualified electrologist will be able to suggest methods for minimizing the discomfort.
How long does the treatment take?
This varies greatly from person to person. Factors such as the size of the area to be treated, the curvature of the hair follicle, the level of skin sensitivity, hormonal balance and heredity all have an effect.
Electrologist Fino Gior, author of Modern Electrology, gives these estimates:
Upper Lip 4-10 hours
Chin 2-12 hours
Sideburns 4-8 hours
Eyebrows 3-8 hours
Underarms 4-12
Arms 5-10 hours
Bikini Line 8-16 hours
These estimates are based on averages taken in the U.S.A. and Canada. They will vary from person to person and should only be taken as a rough guide.
What is the effect on the skin?
If the procedure is performed by a fully qualified electrologist, the tissue surrounding the hair follicle should not be damaged. It should therefore be safe when performed at a reputable clinic by trained personnel.
Obvious precautions such as the electrologist wearing gloves and the use of disposable, pre-sterilized needles also minimize the risk of infection.
Temporary side effects may include some redness and swelling, dryness and scabs.
If the procedure is not carried out by professionals, there is the risk of permanent skin damage resulting in a scarring or pitting of the skin.
How long does it last?
Electrolysis is often viewed as a permanent hair removal method. Once the hair root is destroyed, the hair will not grow back.
There are exceptions however. In some cases hair does regrow in places and clients need to return once or twice a year for a cleanup.
Hair can continue to grow in the underarms, pubic area and around the nipples during a woman's reproductive years.
Applying a hair inhibitor after electrolysis treatment will stop the hair from regrowing. Check the hair inhibitors page for details.
Where can you get it done?
Ask your local physician for a recommendation, or follow the recommendations of family and friends who have received the treatment.
(For U.S.A. residents, check the Directory of Electrologists listed under Additional Research below.)
As level of expertise and qualifications vary greatly in different countries and even in some states in the U.S.A., it is extremely important to check the credentials of the electrologist beforehand.
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