What is electrolysis? How does it work?

Electrolysis is the process of hair removal using electric current. Electrolysis is the only hair removal method recognized as permanent by the FDA and AMA. Electrolysis has been used for nearly 150 years and has stood the test of time when it comes to results. This hair removal science is safe and effective on all skin and hair types.

Electrolysis works by inserting a fine probe alongside the hair into the natural follicle opening (skin is not punctured). To achieve permanence, a tiny amount of electric current is delivered to the bottom of the follicle detaching the hair from its nutrients and destroying the hair growth center of each individual hair. The detached hair is then removed with tweezers.

Modalities Used

Galvanic

Thermolysis

Direct current (DC) is also known as "true electrolysis." This is a chemical method that uses DC to convert natural body salt and water in the follicle into sodium hydroxide, a compound capable of destroying the hair growth center.

Thermolysis

Alternating current (AC), also referred to as "high frequency" or "short-wave," is a method that uses a high frequency current to produce heat in the targeted area to cauterize and destroy the hair growth center.

Blend

Thermolysis

Blend

The blend method combines both DC and AC together. Thermolysis enhances the action of the galvanic method to produce a faster process. The best method will be selected based on a client's hair type, skin characteristics, and sensitivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to see results?

Electrolysis is a progressive process that requires a series of treatments to achieve permanence. Consistency and patience are key to this process. The number of treatments needed can vary from months to years depending on several factors such as hair growth cycles, hormones, genetics, medication, consistency with treatment, sensitivity to treatment, continuing to wax and tweeze, location of hair, treatment goals, etc.

What is the difference between laser hair removal and electrolysis?

Electrolysis- FDA approved as permanent hair removal.

Laser- FDA approved as permanent hair reduction.

Electrolysis- Targets the individual follicle for more detailed work.

Laser- Targets larger areas in a shorter amount of time not always completely disabling the follicle. Can be a good option for larger areas and dense hair close together to thin it out.

Electrolysis- Reliable treatment for the face and can treat eyebrows safely.

Laser- Not safe for around eyes. Santa Cruz Electrolysis advises against laser hair removal on the face.

Electrolysis- Effective on all skin types, hair types and hair textures.

Laser- Most effective on light skin and dark hair. Laser does not target blonde, red or grey hair.

Is electrolysis painful?

Everyone responds to treatment differently; some feel a momentary sensation while others fall asleep. During treatment we are destroying tissue surrounded by nerves, it is common to feel a slight discomfort during this process. The goal of treatment is to find a working point that will be tolerable yet effective.

Why do I need multiple treatments? Hair growth cycle explained.

There are four phases of a hair growth cycle. Anagen (growing phase), catagen (transitioning phase), telogen (resting phase) and exogen (shedding phase). Electrolysis is most effective when the hair is in anagen; actively growing and connected to its nutrients/blood supply. Hairs may need to be treated a couple times depending on their phase of growth. For best results, stay on top of hair growth cycles in order to treat the actively growing hairs coming in. Also remember; because hair does not grow all at the same rate, not all the hair you have is present at the time of treatment.