What Is Electric Hair Removal? How It Works, Costs & FAQs

If you’re dealing with unwanted hair, electrolysis could be your go-to for permanent hair removal. It safely eliminates facial hair and works on other body parts as well.

But what exactly is electric hair removal, and how does it work?

In this guide, we’ll explain how electrolysis works, highlight its benefits, and share tips from skin experts.

Whether you’re curious about the process or ready to book your first appointment with Aleya, we’ve got all the info you need to make an informed decision.

What Is Electric Hair Removal?

Electric hair removal, or electrolysis hair removal, permanently eliminates hair by using a small electrical charge to destroy the hair follicles.

How Does Electrolysis Work?

During this process, a trained electrologist inserts a fine probe into the hair follicle beneath the skin’s surface. Then, an electrical current travels down the probe to the base of the follicle, effectively eliminating the hair root.

Which Body Parts Can Electrolysis Remove Hair From?

Electrolysis can remove hair from nearly any part of the body.

Common areas include the face (such as eyebrows, upper lip, and chin), legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, and back. It’s also suitable for smaller areas with finer hair like the toes and fingers.

How Many Sessions of Electric Hair Removal Do I Need?

The number of electrolysis sessions you’ll need for permanent hair removal varies per person, but it typically ranges from eight to 12 sessions.

Factors influencing the number of sessions include:

• Hair growth cycle: Electrolysis is effective only during the anagen phase, or active growth phase.
• Hair density: If you have a lot of hair, like a thick beard, you’ll likely need more electrolysis sessions. That’s because more follicles per square inch means there’s more work to be done to clear an area.
• Hair thickness: Thicker hair is a bit tougher to deal with, as it has larger roots. This means it can take a bit more effort — and more sessions — to get those stubborn hair strands out, especially in areas with dense facial hair.
• Skin type: Your skin’s condition and how sensitive it is can also play a big part in how many sessions you’ll need. If you have sensitive skin, your electrologist might need to go gentler and spread the sessions out a bit more to avoid irritation.
• Treatment area: Larger areas like the bikini line, underarms, or your back might need more sessions than smaller spots like your eyebrows or upper lip. Larger areas take longer to become completely hair-free since there’s more ground to cover.

How Long Does an Electrolysis Hair Removal Session Take?

The average electrolysis session lasts 30 minutes.

However, treating larger areas like the legs might require up to an hour, while facial areas such as the upper lip or brows could take as little as five minutes for just a few hairs.

How Much Does Electric Hair Removal Cost?

Wondering about the cost of electric hair removal?

For smaller areas like the chin, you’re looking at several 30-minute sessions, and each treatment might set you back between $150 and $300.

As for facial hair removal, prices generally range from $150 to $4,500, depending on the extent of the area you’re treating.

If you’re considering hair removal for larger areas like your legs or back, session costs range from $900 to $4,500.

Potential Side Effects of Electric Hair Removal

Here’s what you can expect with electric hair removal:

• Ingrown hairs: Hairs can curl back and grow into the skin, forming bumps
• Redness or swelling: Redness or swelling is common right after a session and usually subside after a few minutes
• Blisters: Blisters may occasionally form after electrolysis due to skin sensitivity, treatment intensity, and if the treated area is delicate
• Acne: Oily or sensitive skin may break out after electrolysis because the treatment opens pores, making them more susceptible to bacteria and irritation
• Burning sensation: You might feel a burning sensation during the session, especially if the current is high
• Skin discoloration: The treated area might lighten or darken, particularly in those with darker skin tones

Myths About Electric Hair Removal

Which is fact and which is myth? We’re here to debunk common misconceptions and give you the real scoop on electric hair removal.

1. Electrolysis Is Painful

While everyone’s pain threshold is different, many people find electrolysis hair removal manageable.

The treatment is often described as a quick, warm pinch, and if you’re worried, you can use a topical anesthetic to help ease any discomfort.

2. Electrolysis Isn’t Permanent

Did you know that electrolysis is the only hair removal method that the FDA approves for permanent results? This distinction underscores its effectiveness and reliability compared to other techniques.

3. Temporary Methods of Hair Removal are Better

While it’s tempting to stick with quick fixes like shaving or waxing, they don’t offer lasting results, require constant upkeep, and come with potential razor bumps, cuts, or a hair removal cream-induced rash.

Electrolysis might take more time upfront, but it pays off with permanent hair-free results.

4. Laser Hair Removal is Equally Effective as Electrolysis

Actually, laser hair removal and electric hair removal are quite different.

Electrolysis takes the top spot as it’s more precise and works on every skin tone and hair type, which isn’t the case with laser hair removal. Laser treatments typically work best on people with pale skin and dark hair.

5. Electrolysis Is Limited to Small Areas

Electrolysis is versatile and can handle both small and large areas effectively. Whether it’s a tiny patch or a larger section, this method targets all types of hair and can be used on any part of the body with great results.

Essential Skin Care Tips for Effective Electric Hair Removal

Whether it’s your first time or you’re refining your skincare routine, here are top tips from skin experts that you should keep in mind for the best electric hair removal results.

• Avoid caffeine: For a more comfortable session, skip caffeine for a few hours before your appointment. Caffeine can increase sensitivity and make the treatment feel more painful.
• Gently exfoliate: Gently scrub or use an exfoliating glove to remove dead skin cells. Exfoliating before your treatment opens the follicles, making it easier to remove unwanted hair.
• Avoid, plucking, waxing, and tweezing: Plucking, waxing, threading, or tweezing before your session reduces the number of hairs available for removal, making your electrolysis treatment less effective.
• Get aftercare advice: After your session, ask your electrologist for specific aftercare advice. They can recommend products that will soothe your skin and enhance your treatment results, such as aloe vera gel, tea tree oil, or a specialized post-treatment lotion.
• Stay hydrated: Hydration is key. Drinking plenty of water before your treatment helps the unwanted hair slide out more easily, making the process more seamless.
• Clean your skin: Remove your makeup before your appointment to ensure that the hair follicles are clean and accessible.
• Communicate with your electrologist: Don’t hesitate to talk about any questions or concerns with your electrologist. Your electrologist is there to help make your experience as comfortable and effective as possible.

Explore Exceptional Electrolysis Hair Removal Services at Laser by Aleya

Before you dive into booking your electrolysis appointment, make sure to choose a certified and reputable electrologist like Aleya.

At Laser by Aleya, our services offer safe and permanent hair removal that’s a hit with everyone — women, men, and all our fabulous peeps.

If you’re in the Great Neck area in New York, swing by Laser by Aleya for top-notch electrolysis that’s not only reliable but also delivers lasting smoothness.

We’re all about making your experience as chill as possible with results that last. Reach out to us to book a consultation and kickstart your journey to silky, hair-free skin.

We’re here to help you shine with confidence, sporting results you’ll absolutely love.