Electrolysis hair removal is the only method approved by the FDA for
permanent hair removal. It does require multiple sessions to achieve best possible results, but permanent hair removal isn’t 100% guaranteed for everyone.
How Does it Work?
An electric current is applied with a very fine needle-shaped electrode, or metal probe into each hair follicle for about one minute to destroy the root.
Hair grows in different stages: growing, resting and shedding. Because all of the hair isn’t on the same stage at any given time, multiple sessions are needed to get the hair in the growth phase for electrolysis hair removal to be most effective- just like laser hair removal.
The Pros
- It has the best track record. Electrolysis has the best overall results, versus any other method, in ridding hair for long periods of time- or even permanently.
- Many different hair and skin types can benefit. Because it doesn’t target hair pigment (color) like laser, but attacks the follicle itself. People that aren’t good candidates for laser can still get electrolysis.
The Cons
- It’s a very long, tedious process. You have to treat each hair follicle individually for about one minute. Covering just a small area, can take hours.
- Bent follicles can make electrolysis hair removal harder. Previous waxing or tweezing can make hair follicles bent or misshapen, and getting the needle to the root more difficult to destroy the follicle.
- Multiple treatments are needed. You have to truly be committed to electrolysis because you will need anywhere from 15 – 30 sessions, which will take up a considerable amount of your time.
- Skin can get discolored. This is most likely to occur if it's improperly done.
- It’s very expensive. See below, under The Costs heading.
Ouch Factor
Everyone has their own tolerance to pain. Electrolysis has been likened to a stinging and pricking sensation, and each follicle has to go through it.
Electrolysis Hair Removal Costs
An average 30-minute session is about $60 and will only treat a small area.
