Traditional Electrolysis Hair Removal Chicago

Electrolysis: The Only FDA-Approved Method for Permanent Hair Removal

Electrolysis is the gold standard for permanent hair removal. Whether unwanted hair is caused by heredity, metabolic factors, or hormonal imbalances, electrolysis effectively and permanently removes it, helping you achieve smooth, confident skin.

The process involves the insertion of a fine filament into the hair follicle, where a controlled amount of electrical current is applied. Depending on the technique, the current destroys the hair root through heat, chemical action, or a combination of both. This precise method ensures that the hair cannot regrow, delivering truly permanent results.

Methods of Electrolysis

Electrolysis includes three recognized modalities for permanent hair removal:

1. Electrolysis (Galvanic Method)
   • This method uses a direct current (galvanic current) applied to the tissue. The electrical current breaks down salt and water in the follicle into new substances: sodium hydroxide (lye), hydrogen gas, and chlorine gas. The lye produced destroys the cells at the base of the hair follicle, effectively preventing regrowth.
2. Thermolysis (Shortwave Method)
   • This technique applies an alternating current to the tissue, causing water molecules to vibrate rapidly and produce heat. The resulting heat leads to electrodesiccation (drying) or electrocoagulation (cooking) of the follicle, destroying the hair root.
3. Blend Method
   • This combines the galvanic and thermolysis methods, utilizing both chemical and heat-based actions to maximize efficacy in destroying the follicle.

Stages of Hair Growth

Hair growth occurs in three distinct stages:

1. Anagen (Active Growing Stage)
   • During this phase, the hair follicle is at its deepest point in the skin, and the hair matrix is active, encapsulating the dermal papilla (the hair’s blood supply). This is the most effective stage for treatment, as the hair is actively growing and most connected to its root.
2. Catagen (Transitional Stage)
   • In this stage, the hair follicle begins to separate from the dermal papilla, and the growth process slows.
3. Telogen (Resting Stage)
   • This is the dormant phase, where hair is not actively growing and is ready to shed naturally.

Treating hair during the Anagen phase yields the best results for permanent removal, as the hair is actively growing and fully rooted in the follicle.

Q. How many Electrolysis treatments will I need?

A. Electrolysis requires a series of treatments given over a period of time. The length of time varies from person to person and depends on many factors…. type, density, and amount of hair, its location on the body, paste laser treatments, hormonal disruption, medication, temporary removal methods, how well you tolerate treatments, the consistency of the treatments affects the overall success, and many other factors. In an ideal condition with Loyalty to the recommended treatment plan, the average time for completion is 9 months to 18+ months.

Q. Is Electrolysis Hair Removal Permanent?

A. Yes, Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal. Electrolysis safely and permanently removes all types of hair from all skin tapes. Electrolysis Permanently destroys the growth cells of the hair follicle, preventing treated hairs from ever growing back.

Q. How often do I need Electrolysis?

A. Will vary from person to person, if you are getting face-work done, it is most effective to have a full treatment every 2-3 weeks. If you are getting bodywork done, a full treatment every 4-6 weeks is best. This frequency and/or the length of appointment will increase effectiveness and decrease the total number of treatments required, also minimizing both pain and trauma to the skin. Electrolysis can be a long process, but the results are worth it. In ideal situations, results typically start to show after 3 months. The treatment plan recommended by your electrologist must be followed to ensure effective treatment.

Q. Is Electrolysis Hair Removal Painful?

A. For most people, today’s methods don’t cause a lot of pain, but can hurt; for short sessions, many people can tolerate it well. For longer sessions, sensitive areas (upper lips, etc.) or those with a low pain threshold, if you find it too uncomfortable, we recommend the use of a topical numbing cream.

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