|
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 (used
At Hair Today Gone Tomorrow)
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?
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 session. Cost of the
treatment depends on the number of hairs per square
inch and the type of hair, and the patients tolerance
level. This varies with each individual. We recommend
a free consultation so the electrologist can determine
the cost of your individual treatment.
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. On
average, most treatments are within the first 3
months, however it takes 18 -24 months to complete the
treatment. The reason for this is because all hair
does not grow at the same. You must wait for all the
hair to grow in and be successfully treated. Some
hairs are in a dormant stage and you must wait for
them to grow in to be treated. If you have waxed or
tweezed hair in the past some of the hairs may become
distorted and therefore take longer to treat.
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, or
dryness of the skin.
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 a permanent hair removal method.
Once the hair root is destroyed, the hair will not
grow back. It is important that you commit to having
the treatment at the time prescribed by the
electrologist for best results.
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.
If
you have any further questions please call (813) 968-6464 to schedule a free
consultation or use the online form by clicking
here.
|
