Fed up with excess hair on your face or body? Did you know there is a permanent solution to unwanted hair? Have a look at these facts about hair removal.

The most common body areas for hair removal are – all areas!  Humans have been using all manner of hair removal methods since ancient times.  Until the 1870s, shaving, tweezing, and chemical depilatories were the only options. Then came electrolysis!  Also known as electrology or electroepilation.

Electrolysis was developed by a Civil War physician who treated eyelashes which curved inward and chronically irritated the eyeball. A skin doctor recognized the value for his hirsute female clients and history was made. The science of electrolysis treatments has undergone countless improvements since it was discovered.  Computerized epilators and pre-sterilized disposable instruments have made it comfortable and safe as well as improved its permanence.

Electrolysis treatments have always been appropriate for each type of skin and hair.  It gives you great results on white, red, blond, and gray hair and is safe for pigmented skin.

In the late 20^th century electrolysis was surpassed in advertising by lasers and light-based methods, which are not all appropriate for non-pigmented hair and pigmented skin. The term “permanent removal” was given to the practice of electrolysis and “permanent reduction” was given to laser and light-based methods, confusing consumers, advertisers, and the media.

Prior to the introduction of laser hair removal, women with unwanted hair were embarrassed and secretive about having excess hair.  They didn’t know where to turn or who to ask about their problem. Since laser hair removal was often provided in physician practices, advertising often included billboards and full-page spreads in newspapers and magazines. This was something electrologists could not do due to the cost of advertising, BUT, the resulting awareness helped consumers discover electrolysis.

In most U.S. states, Canada, and Europe, electrolysis is a regulated practice.  The electrologist will provide you with a thorough consultation.  This consultation will explain the procedure, the aftercare, and provide you with appropriate expectations. Questions about your health will be asked, as excess hair growth can be a side effect of certain medical conditions or medications. The consultation may also include the treatment of a few hairs so you can decide whether or not you wish to proceed. There are two major side effects from electrolysis treatments.  The first one is permanently gone hair.  The treatment energy is focused on the specific hair growing cells and not to other tissues in the skin. The second side effect is an immediate

There are two major side effects from electrolysis treatments.  The first one is permanence.  The treatment energy is focused on the specific hair growing cells and not to other tissues in the skin. After the follicle is treated it cannot grow another hair. The second side effect is an immediate pinking up of the skin. This is caused by increased blood flow to the treated follicle and lasts a few minutes to a few hours. Other side effects are rare but may include swelling, a tiny scab, or the development of a small pustule or pimple at the follicle opening.

Electrolysis takes a series of treatments to complete because of the nature of hair growth.  Hair grows in cycles which are unsynchronized and are affected by your hormones, your genetics, your health, and your weight. Hair growth is much like looking at a giant iceberg.  What you see above the surface is only a small portion of the amount of active hair your body currently grows.

Before and after an electrolysis treatment, you need to take care of your skin and stop all tweezing and picking of the hair and skin. Hair can be shaved, but the length must be at least one-quarter of an inch prior to treatment. Skin must be kept clean. Avoid touching the skin after treatment.  Avoid unsanitary practices such as resting the phone on your freshly treated chin, applying lotions or creams for massage or facials, lying on gym equipment, or swimming and hot-tubbing – as these actions can introduce bacteria onto the freshly treated area.

Electrolysis is a time-tested method and is the most permanent method for hair removal.  You will love the results.