Electrolysis

Electrolysis is an established technique for the permanent removal of unwanted hair from the face and body (the upper lip, chin, sides of the face, nipples, abdomen, groin, legs, etc.). The hair may have arisen as a result of puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or topical irritation of the skin. It may be due to an underlying hormone imbalance brought about by some illness, for example. The hairgrowth may vary between fine down, and strong, thick, black hairs.

Consultation

You will be asked about current and past medical conditions (e.g. heart problems, allergies, date of last menstrual period) and about medication being taken. You will be asked to indicate clearly the main areas that you wish to have treated. The consultation takes about 15 minutes and is free of charge; the first treatment usually is given straight afterwards.

The Application of Electrolysis (Expilation)

Currently the only method of permanent hair removal is by electrolysis, in which a very fine needle is slid down the hair follicle beside the hair, so that its tip is positioned at the point from which the hair grows, i.e. the dermal papilla. A tiny current is applied for a short time, which destroys the hair, and the hair is then removed. While the current is being applied, a brief stinging sensation may be perceived, but at other times no sensation is felt - it depends on the area being treated, the nerve responses of each individual, the level of the current required etc.. The current must be strong enough to be effective, while remaining tolerable. The description above refers to “short-wave diathermy cauterization”, which, strictly speaking, is a form of “epilation”. True electrolysis involves the application of a different type of current, “galvanic” current, which converts the body's own salt and water into a tiny amount of “lye” (sodium hydroxide). Lye is caustic and so dissolves away the growing point of the hair. The body mops up (buffers) any excess lye. When the diathermy and galvanic currents are used together, the method is known as the “Blend”. The method selected depends on the strength of the hair growth, the space between hairs, the skin reaction, client preference, and so on.

Expectations of Electrolysis

The follicle may be subject to localized erythema (reddening) and / or oedema (swelling); these effects can last for between a few minutes and about 24 hours. Fine hairs may or may not re-grow. Strong hairs require repeat treatments, but re-grow more slowly, and become lighter in colour and finer in texture, so that progress is constantly being seen. Strong hairs cannot be destroyed in one application because the current required would destroy the surrounding, moist, skin tissue. Many clients are surprised how easy it is to relax during the treatment.

For further details of the full range of treatments, please phone 01935 873 456.