INFORMATION ON ELECTROLYSIS

How does electrolysis work?

Electrolysis is a proven method of permanent hair removal.  It is safe and effective on all types of hair when performed by a qualified technician.  The procedure was first used by an American doctor in 1875 to remove an ingrown eyelash.  A small, surgical-steel wire (sometimes called a filament or needle) is inserted down alongside the hair  and  a mild electrical impulse is then released to cauterize the follicle. Once the hair has released from the surrounding tissue, it is lifted from the follicle with a pair of forceps. When sterilization is completed, the base of the follicle is sealed off from its blood supply and is incapable of ever producing a hair again.  It is not possible to destroy the roots of all hairs in one treatment.  Hair grows in cycles and must be treated in succession. 

Are there different forms of electrolysis?

Yes.  There are actually 3 different types utilizing 2 different kinds of electrical current.

[1] SHORT WAVE: also called “thermolysis”, uses high frequency current (A.C.) to produce heat, which is used to destroy the follicle.  This is a very quick and therefore popular method.

[2] GALVANIC: also called “electrolysis”, was the first form of permanent hair removal and is the reason for the common term/  This method uses galvanic current (D.C.) to cause a chemical breakdown of the salt water in your skin to produce lye.  The lye acts as a corrosive agent within the skin, destroying the follicle.  Although this method is very effective it is also very slow because it takes considerable time for the necessary reaction do occur.

[3]  BLEND: uses a combination of both currents at once.  It uses the heat produced by alternating current to speed up the reaction time of the direct current.  The resulting method is slightly slower than short-wave but much quicker than straight galvanic and is very effective on problem hairs.

Does Treatment Hurt?

Each person’s tolerance level varies.  Some people find it uncomfortable while others have been known to sleep during sessions.

How long will treatment take?

This really depends on the individual case and the kind of growth that is present.  Tweezing and waxing may stimulate hair growth and make them more difficult to treat.  Also, certain areas of the body are more delicate and must be worked on at lower intensities.  The most important thing to remember is that regular treatments are essential.  The hair is much easier to destroy in the active growth phase of its cycle.

What is the cost involved?

Again, because cost varies with treatment time it is almost impossible to estimate a precise cost.  Consultations are usually given free of charge.  At this time a more accurate assessment can be made of  your needs and circumstances.

Is age a factor?

Although age does play a factor in the conditions of hair growth itself, anyone, at any age, can be treated.  Parental consent may be requested for anyone under 16 years of age.

Can Hepatitis, AIDS or other diseases be contracted through electrolysis?

Not if your electrologist is taking proper preventative measures. A new, pre-sterilized, disposable needle must be used for every treatment.   Members of T.A.P.E.B.C. are provided with standard guidelines set forth by Health Canada.  These guidelines ca be accessed at http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hpb/lcdc.  Your Electrologist should be able to explain their sterilization and hygiene procedures to your satisfaction.