Is Electrolysis Permanent? [+ Key Preparation]

Is Electrolysis Permanent? Key Points

---

• Electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal treatment approved by the FDA

• In addition to providing permanent hair removal, electrolysis prevents ingrown hairs
• You will need multiple electrolysis hair removal sessions, spaced weeks or months apart

---

Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal treatment that employs an electric current to zap and destroy hair follicles.

There are no restrictions when it comes to the treatment areas, as you can use it pretty much anywhere on your body, whether it’s your face, arms, legs, or bikini line.

In this guide, we will:

• Discuss the benefits of choosing electrolysis over other hair removal methods, such as laser hair removal
• Outline how to prepare for your treatments
• Answer common questions about electrolysis hair removal

Is Electrolysis Permanent?

Yes, electrolysis is the only hair removal method considered permanent by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Benefits of Electrolysis Hair Removal

If you need that extra nudge to book your appointment, here’s what you can look forward to with your electrolysis hair removal session:

1. Permanent Results

Unlike temporary solutions like laser, waxing, shaving, threading, and tweezing, which require ongoing treatments as hair regrows, electrolysis is the only FDA-approved treatment that offers permanent results.

2. Less Restrictions

Unlike other hair removal methods like laser, which often work best on individuals with high contrast between their hair and skin color, electrolysis is effective for most people.

It’s especially great for folks with gray or red hair, which usually doesn’t respond well to laser, as it doesn’t absorb the light as easily.

3. Prevents Ingrown Hair

Electrolysis also eliminates ingrown hair. Ingrown hairs, which curl back or grow sideways under the skin rather than emerging from it, often cause skin irritation, redness, and painful bumps.

Other hair removal techniques struggle to address these issues effectively.

Electrolysis targets and destroys each hair follicle with an electric current, preventing hair from regrowing and eliminating the chance of future ingrown hairs.

Am I Eligible for Electrolysis Hair Removal?

Eligibility for electrolysis hair removal depends on several factors:

• Hair and skin type: Electrolysis works on all hair types and colors, including those that laser treatments often miss.
• Skin conditions: Consult a dermatologist before undergoing electrolysis if you have skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or a tendency to develop keloids. For instance, due to the Koebner Reaction, practitioners should treat psoriatic patients with extreme caution during electrolysis.
• Medical history: Conditions like diabetes or a compromised immune system may affect your suitability for electrolysis. Avoid this procedure if you are diabetic, especially if you take insulin, as your skin may be more prone to infection.
• Age and hormone levels: While there are no age restrictions, fluctuating hormone levels can affect hair growth. Minors typically need parental consent.

Do I Need Follow-Up Treatments for Electrolysis Hair Removal?

Experts consider electrolysis hair removal a permanent solution.

You’ll need multiple sessions, spaced weeks or months apart, as hair follicles aren’t all active at the same time. The number of sessions depends on the treatment area, hair quantity, growth cycles, and hormones.

Be sure to ask your electrologist to put together a treatment plan that’s tailored just for you and your hair removal needs.

How To Prepare for Your Electrolysis Hair Removal Session

If you’re getting ready for electrolysis hair removal, here are some tips to make the most of your treatments:

1. Avoid Sun Exposure

Try to stay out of the sun for at least 48 hours before your appointment to avoid any sunburn, which can make your skin extra sensitive.

2. Keep Skin Clean

Wash the area that will be treated and skip the lotions, creams, and makeup. A simple, gentle cleanser will do the trick.

3. Avoid Other Hair Removal Methods

Hold off on plucking or waxing for about a week before your session. These methods remove the hair root, making electrolysis less effective.

However, shaving is fine up until a day before your appointment, since it doesn’t reach below the skin’s surface.

4. Hydrate

Drink plenty of water the day before and on the day of your treatment.

Hydrated skin conducts the currents used in electrolysis more effectively. When you stay hydrated, the hair slides out of the follicle more easily. You might also experience less discomfort and achieve more seamless treatments.

5. Ditch the Caffeine

Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages on the day of your treatment, as they can dehydrate your skin. Caffeine may also stir anxiety, making your session less comfortable.

If you need a cup of coffee to make it through the day, consume only the minimum amount and drink extra water to rehydrate.

6. Exfoliate

Exfoliate two to three times a week before your appointment and one to two weeks after.

This helps get rid of dead skin cells, making it easier for the electrolysis needle to reach the hair follicle directly.

7. Wear Comfortable Clothes

Choose something loose and comfy that won’t irritate the area after treatment. If you’re getting your legs done, a skirt or loose pants are perfect.

8. Manage the Pain

If you’re worried about discomfort, talk to your electrologist about using a topical anesthetic, such as lidocaine cream, to numb the area.

9. Share Your Medications

Talk to your electrologist about any medications you’re taking that might affect your skin’s sensitivity or the treatment overall. It’s important they know everything to ensure the best care.

For instance, isotretinoin, used for severe acne, can increase skin sensitivity, potentially requiring a delay in electrolysis treatments.

Blood thinners may heighten your bleeding risk during the procedure, while supplements like fish oil and vitamin E could increase bruising.

When you share this information, you allow your electrologist to tailor the treatment to ensure your safety. 

Discover Expert Laser & Electrolysis Hair Removal Services at Laser by Aleya

If you’re seeking a lasting solution, electrolysis hair removal is your best choice. It addresses each hair follicle individually to permanently remove hair.

At Laser by Aleya, we provide both treatments, allowing you to select the option that best suits your hair removal requirements.

Whether you opt for the enduring effects of laser hair removal, or the precision offered by electrolysis, we’re here to help you achieve the radiant appearance you desire.

Is Electrolysis Permanent? FAQs

What are the side effects of electrolysis?

Common side effects of electrolysis hair removal are mild redness, swelling, tenderness, scarring, and pigment changes.

Severe side effects may include infections from unsterile needles.

If you’re feeling a bit anxious, discuss concerns with your electrologist before starting treatment. They can explain the sterilization process and how they manage risks to help put your mind at ease.

Does electrolysis hurt?

You may feel discomfort during electrolysis hair removal, often described as tiny pinpricks or a slight stinging sensation.

Compared to other methods like laser hair removal, electrolysis is generally considered more painful, as it targets individual hairs with an electric current.

The level of discomfort varies based on your pain tolerance and the treatment area.

Can I find electrolysis hair removal services in salons?

Yes, you can find electrolysis hair removal services at some salons and clinics.

However, just make sure you choose a reputable and specialized electrologist or clinic for electrolysis. Opting for a trained electrologist with a solid track record will help ensure the procedure is safe and effective.