What is Electrolysis?

by Alexandra Luce

Electrolysis is a form of hair removal that few people know about, especially in an age where laser hair removal ads bombard you every day. One important distinction between Electrolysis and Laser Hair Removal is the permanence of the procedure.

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal uses beams of light to heat melanin within the hair, damaging the follicle and causing it to temporarily stop growing.  When discussing laser hair removal treatments, the necessary maintenance can often be forgotten. Follow-up appointments are necessary, as hair does regrow.

This is not the case with electrolysis: the only true form of permanent hair removal.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis uses a small needle, inserted into each hair follicle, and small pulses of low-level electricity to permanently destroy the hair. Due to the tediousness of the procedure, you will most likely need to return for several treatments. The positive side, however, is that when the hair is gone, it stays gone.  You don’t need any more maintenance to the same area.

Benefits

Benefits of permanent hair removal range from the obvious of never having to shave again, to a boost in confidence. Those with curly or coarse hair may also prefer this treatment, as their follicles are tighter and more likely to cause ingrown hairs after shaving and waxing.  If the hair has been permanently removed, there will no longer be pains during the regrowth period. Ingrown hairs will be a thing of the past.

Always do your research. A quick Google search will tell you who offers electrolysis near you. Many estheticians will have you come in for a consultation before the beginning of your treatments and this is a great time to get to know them. Find the person with whom you feel most comfortable and your visits will surely be more enjoyable.

Risks

There are risks associated with either both treatments. Swelling and inflammation are likely. More severe side effects include scarring and possibly changes in your skin’s pigmentation. For your protection, consult a certified technician to perform your procedure to guarantee your safety. Each person’s case is unique. If you have specific concerns over a sudden influx in unwanted hair, talk to your physician, While many of us have a mustache or a few chin hairs we may not like, if you suddenly feel hairier than usual as there may be an underlying medical issue to blame.


Are you interested in a career in beauty, or perhaps taking your makeup skills to the next level? Empire Beauty School offers several Beauty Programs, including our Esthetics Program which will train you in all sorts of makeup artistry, facials, waxing, and more. Schedule a tour today and meet with a Career Planning Specialist to see if Empire is the perfect fit for you. Visit us at http://www.empire.edu or call 1-800-964-3635.

October 3, 2014

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