Electrolysis
The concept of using electric current for hair removal has been available since the late 1800s and has been improving ever since.
Electrolysis treatments are a form of electrical epilation where a single-use, disposable wire filament is inserted into the hair follicle (a natural opening in the skin) and a minimal amount of current is delivered to the root of the follicle to destroy it through a variety of modalities. All modalities will affect only the active hair follicle, making this a direct route to target unwanted hair.
In the early stages of treatment, you will be treating more frequently to break down their strength in the early stages of their growth cycle. It is imperative that we treat hairs in the recommended treatment pattern your electrologist determines necessary for your unwanted hair needs. This frequency will change as the number of hair lessons/weakens/ or both.
There are three types of electrolysis:
Galvanic Electrolysis - Galvanic electrolysis is the oldest type of this hair removal. The direct current used is extremely effective but slower. It creates a chemical change in the follicle to disable the root.
Thermolysis – Thermolysis uses shortwave radio frequency or AC current. Thermolysis causes the water molecules by your hair to rapidly vibrate, which produces heat. When enough heat is created, thermolysis damages the cells that cause hair growth.
Blend Electrolysis – This method combines both galvanic and thermolysis into one process. The heat from thermolysis heats up the chemical created in the galvanic and speeds up the process.
Your electrologists will select the modality that best serves the hairs requested. There may be contraindications that keep you from a modality which is why we request your health history information pertinent to our work. It is not uncommon to use all modalities when working on one client.
Understanding Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses concentrated beams of light (lasers) to target and reduce unwanted hair. The process involves directing the laser's light energy to the pigment (melanin) in the hair follicle, which absorbs the light and converts it into heat, disabling the follicle and delaying future hair growth.
The Science Behind Laser Hair Removal
How It Works: The laser targets the melanin in hair during its active growth phase (anagen). Multiple treatments are necessary to catch all hairs in this phase, as hair growth occurs in cycles.
Effectiveness: Results vary based on skin tone, hair color, and hair density. Darker hair and lighter skin typically yield the best results, though advancements in technology allow for safe and effective treatments on a broader range of skin tones.
Patient Care
Pre-Treatment Instructions:
Avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least two weeks prior to treatment.
Refrain from waxing, plucking, or using depilatory creams for 4-6 weeks before treatment. Shaving is acceptable and recommended 24-48 hours before your session.
Avoid skin irritants like retinoids or exfoliants in the treatment area 2-3 days before treatment.
Post-Treatment Care:
Redness and swelling around the treated follicles are common and temporary. Apply a soothing lotion or aloe vera gel as needed.
Avoid direct sun exposure and use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on treated areas.
Avoid hot showers, saunas, and exercise that causes sweating for 24-48 hours.
Refrain from waxing, plucking, or exfoliating the treated area between sessions.
Treatment Expectations
- Number of Sessions: A series of 6-8 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart is typically required for optimal results, depending on the treatment area and individual hair characteristics. Maintenance sessions may be needed annually.
- Side Effects: Temporary discomfort, redness, and swelling are the most common side effects. Rarely, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation may occur. Inform your provider if you experience any unexpected reactions.
- Limitations: Laser hair removal reduces hair growth but may not result in complete removal. Fine, light-colored, or gray hair will not respond well to treatment.