Electrolysis is the permanent removal of hair from the human body using a fine needle to apply a measured amount of electricity to the base of the hair follicle, causing destruction of the follicle.

In 1875, Dr. Charles Michel, an ophthalmologist, invented a procedure to remove ingrown eyelashes utilizing galvanic current. . . hence the name electrolysis.

In modern times, taking advantage of new technologies, today's electrolysis is performed by well-qualified practitioners using state-of-the-art computerized equipment and practicing up-to-date sterilization procedures. Electrolysis has continued to evolve and advance as the most effective method of hair removal.

Today, electrolysis encompasses three methods:

Electrolysis - Direct current (DC);

Thermolysis - Radio frequency (RF);

Blend - Both of the above currents.

YES! Electrolysis is the ONLY hair removal method that is recognized as permanent by the FDA.

Electrolysis has been in practice for nearly 150 years; a proven track record as the only dependable, permanent method of hair removal.

With electrolysis, unless you have a medical condition that is stimulating additional hair growth, once you complete the regular series of treatments the unwanted hair will be gone forever.

Methods that cut the hair shaft (shaving, depilatories, etc) have no affect on hair growth.

Methods that pull the hair out by the roots (tweezing, waxing, threading, etc) will actually INCREASE growth in many areas (such as the chin and upper lip).

Temporary hair removal methods require lifetime maintenance and can lead to skin irritations, ingrown hairs, discoloration and scarring.

Unlike temporary methods of hair removal, electrolysis leaves you looking better than before - you will love the look of your skin when your course of treatment is completed!

According to the FDA, laser can not advertise as “permanent hair removal,“ though several manufacturers of laser hair removal devices have received FDA permission to claim, “permanent reduction.”

If you are a candidate for laser, it may permanently reduce the total number of body hairs, but will not result in the permanent removal of all hair.

Ideal candidates for laser have pale skin and dark hair. Laser is not effective on hair that is gray, blonde, white, or for most people with red hair. As laser light is attracted to the melanin (the color or pigment) in the hair, for many years people with tan or dark skin tones were poor candidates; the laser couldn't differentiate between the pigment in the skin and the melanin in the hair. However, in recent years lasers that are Interchangeable Wavelength have been developed that can work for people with darker skin tones.

Even when seemingly successful, hair removed by laser can sometimes return to an area a couple of years later. If hair removal is for surgical purposes (such as GCS surgery) and the surgery is less than 4 years out, electrolysis is a better option.

More information about laser hair removal from the American Electrology Association.

The length and number of treatments varies greatly, as the amount and type of unwanted hair varies so much from person to person. Factors such as hair growth cycles, the quantity and structure of hair presented, previous use of temporary hair removal methods, heredity, hormone function, normal physiologic changes, certain medications and stress influence the treatment plan for each individual.

A licensed electrologist will assess your specific situation and create a treatment plan. Electrolysis is most effective on new growth and keeping to consistent appointments (as determined by your treatment plan) is the most effective way to ensure optimum results in the shortest period of time.

As treatment continues and progress is made, appointments become shorter and less frequent. New hairs become finer, far fewer in numbers, and slower growing, until they are eliminated completely.

Discomfort is typically minimal for most people, a slight tingling or little sting. However some areas are less or more sensitive than others, individual tolerances vary greatly, and a person’s sensitivity can vary from day to day.

Each hair follicle is surrounded by its own network of nerve endings and, while it is impossible to destroy hair growth tissue without any sensation, rest assured that the sensation indicates that destructive activity is taking place.

Adjustments can be made to help make the treatment remain comfortable and the best thing you can do to increase your comfort level is to consistently hydrate. Individuals that drink enough water daily tend to experience less discomfort, plus good hydration levels support the healing response after treatment.

When electrolysis is performed by a competent electrologist using up-to-date equipment and current techniques, there should be no visible skin damage.

Immediately following treatment, some mild redness or swelling is typical and temporary (usually disappearing within a few hours).

Occasionally, small whiteheads or minuscule scabs may occur; they are a part of the normal healing process and will not cause any permanent damage if they are not picked off.

Your electrologist will discuss specific treatment aftercare to promote proper healing, such as avoiding heat or touching the area immediately after treatment.

Unwanted hair can be safely removed from most areas of the body, including: the chin, neck, upper and lower lip, hairline, bridge of nose, eyebrows, cheeks, sideburns, neck, shoulders, arms, underarms, breasts, abdomen, bikini line, legs, back, and chest.

Treatment of hair from moles requires written permission from a physician, per state licensing laws and some general liability insurance policies.

The inside of the ears and nose can not be treated.

Doctor permission is required if you have certain implanted devices.

Hair grows in unsynchronized cycles, so only about a third of the hair is visible above the skin at any time. Hair grows, then naturally sheds, and replaces itself.

Following active growing periods, hair follicles go into a dormant phase. This period of dormancy varies, with replacement hairs usually appearing within 3 to 12 months. The appearance of these coarse replacement hairs from dormant hair follicles should not be mistaken as regrowth from previously treated follicles.

It takes 12-24 months for all of your hair to have cycled through and made its way to the skin’s surface, where it is treatable.

Although Electrolysis has never been proven harmful to pregnant women, it is suggested that the advice of your physician be sought before treatment.