What is Electrolysis?

While many people are aware of the term, electrolysis, they may not be aware of exactly what it is, or how it works. Some may understand that it is a term for a method of hair removal, but few people really understand where the practice originated and how it came to be.

In the late 1800's a man named Dr. Charles Michel, an optometrist by trade, discovered the process now known as electrolysis. Since that time numerous other hair removal methods have been tried, but none were able to match the results of Dr. Michel's method. Test after test proved that the hair removal experienced by this unique treatment was truly safe and permanent. In fact, it was found to be so effective that over 100 years later we still use it and consider electrolysis the best way to permanently remove unwanted hair.

As may be expected, the electrolysis process involves using an electrical charge to kill the hair follicles to prevent re-growth. A tiny probe consisting of a needle even finer than a strand of hair is inserted into the follicle of each unwanted hair. While needles may seem painful, because there is no contact with the skin itself and because the needle is so very fine there is no pain involved, nor do you bleed. Once the needle penetrates the follicle a small electrical charge passes through it giving the patient a vague tickling sensation. No electricity passes from the needle into the body as hair is not conductive and acts as an insulator.

The needle is removed after treatment and the site is tested to see if it was effective. A technician will gently test a treated hair by pulling on it. If the hair comes away from the skin easily the treatment for that area is complete. If it still clings further treatments are necessary.

All electrolysis treatments require multiple sessions for complete results. There are several reasons for this. One reason is that the thicker your hair is the tougher it is to remove. Thick hairs will grow back at first, although the regrowth will be thinner. After additional treatments the hair will become quite thin and eventually not regrow at all. An easy rule of thumb is that if the hair does not grow back after a three month time, it will not grow back.

Another reason the treatment may not be effective on the first attempt is that not all follicles are very straight to begin with. Each treatment straightens the follicle, allowing the needle to penetrate more deeply and eventually succeed in sealing off the root so that it cannot grow again.

With its long history and excellent track record electrolysis is a truly amazing method of permanent hair removal. Properly applied the results are great and while it may take a while it is definitely worth the effort.