Electrolysis

Electrology, or electrolysis, is the only procedure recognized by the FDA as permanent hair removal. This method works by destroying the root of the hair using an electrode, or probe, that is inserted into each hair follicle individually. A small amount of electricity is applied to the papilla at the bottom of the hair follicle permanently eliminating the regenerative capability of the hair follicle. This effectively prevents regrowth. No other method can claim such widespread success.

Prior removal methods have an effect on your current electrolysis treatment. Tweezing, waxing, threading, or sugaring will cause your hair root to strengthen by growing coarser and deeper. These methods also increase your risk of skin discoloration and ingrown hairs. In addition, they have the potential to increase growth rate and the strength of the hair, creating a larger problem than you started with.

Maintenance methods, such as shaving and depilatories are only temporary and allow hair to grow back quickly. These methods can be very irritating to the skin.

Gaining in popularity as an alternative to electrolysis is laser hair removal.

How Does Electrolysis Work?

Three modalities are used in electrology: Galvanic, thermolysis, and blend. All three methods have their own merits, and one method is not better than another. The success depends on the skill of the electrologist, the type of hair being removed, the condition of the skin and the pain threshold of the client. All three methods, when properly performed, thoroughly destroy the hair matrix cells, leaving follicles incapable of regrowing hair.

Galvanic method

First reported in 1875 as a way to remove ingrown eyelashes, the galvanic method of electrolysis kills a hair follicle using a current to produce sodium hydroxide (lye) within the follicle. Sodium hydroxide kills the matrix cells required for hair growth.

Thermolysis

Thermolysis relies on shortwave radio frequency, delivered through a probe inserted into the hair follicle, to heat the hair matrix cells.

Blend method

The blend method of electrolysis combines features of both thermolysis and galvanic methods. It has the advantage of benefiting from the strengths of both.

Different hair types respond differently to treatment methods. The machines used at Perfect Image Med Spa can be set to use either method, as well as to blend the two. The technicians have the expertise to determine which treatment will work best for every individual.