Learn about the how’s and why’s of electrolysis, as well as its effects and advantages over other hair removal methods. Check out why electrolysis is your best option.
Electrolysis was first used in 1875 for hair follicle destruction. Dr. Charles E. Michel used Galvanic, or true Electrolysis, in which electric current creates a chemical reaction to destroy hair. Thermolysis, popular since the 1940s, uses heat for cauterization. “The Blend” combines both Galvanic and Thermolysis. All three modalities are effective. The skill and judgment of the electrologist make the most significant difference in results achieved.
A very fine sterile wire called a probe or needle is inserted into the tiny opening of the follicle. The insertion is not felt because of the follicle opening. Once the probe is inserted properly down into the follicle, the current is released to destroy hair cells. The hair cells control the development of the hair, either making it coarser, lighter, thinner, etc. Once the hair cells have been totally eliminated, the hair follicle has no ability to regenerate hair. After current is released to eliminate hair cells, the electrologist removes the unwanted hair with a sterile forcep. At Newbury Electrolysis, we use only sterile disposable probes for your protection.
The sensation is equivalent to a pinprick or like a sudden burst of heat. Most people are pleasantly surprised when the sensation is not as bad as they imagined it would be. Tolerance levels are different from person to person.
Yes, Electrolysis is the only permanent and safe method of removing unwanted hair. Our probe makes direct contact with the cells that create hair. Without this direct contact by the probe, the cells will not be destroyed and the hair will return.
Consistency in your treatments plays a big part in speeding up the process of electrolysis. There are three hair growth stages. When electrolysis is performed in the first growing stage, more hair cells are destroyed. When treatment schedules are not kept, there is a chance the hair will grow into its second or third stage, and the next electrolysis treatment will not be as effective.
Electrolysis may take weeks to months to see marked improvement, and over a year to permanently destroy every hair cell. An encouraging fact is that the area being treated is continuously improving during treatments, and visits becoming shorter in duration, as well as spaced further apart. When all unwanted hairs are gone, some people will need periodic treatments. Sometimes new hairs can be produced due to reasons such as stress, medications, hormonal changes, etc. Remember we cannot change the reasons new hairs may be produced, but at this stage it becomes easy to maintain. There are some people whom, when finished with electrolysis treatments, do not have a need to come in for maintenance treatments.
Request an appointment with Susan, a Certified Professional Electrologist, in Newbury, New Hampshire, so she can discuss a treatment plan that works for you.