Electrolysis
Electrolysis for Permanent Hair Removal in Novi
Electrolysis is a highly effective, FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal. Unlike temporary solutions such as shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams, electrolysis targets hair growth at the source to deliver long-lasting results. This procedure is suitable for all skin and hair types and can be applied to any part of the body.
How does electrolysis work?
Electrolysis is a generalized term for a method of permanent hair removal. One of our licensed electrologists will insert a tiny probe into each individual hair follicle and apply an electrical current to destroy the germinative cells in each hair follicle. The actual Electrolysis energy is direct current and causes a chemical reaction between water and salt, which creates sodium hydroxide. The sodium hydroxide is caustic to the hair follicle tissue. This method is slow and when used by itself, the probe or multiple needles are left in the individual follicles for 1-4 minutes.
There are three types of electrolysis:
Galvanic Electrolysis: Uses a chemical reaction to destroy the follicle.
Thermolysis (Shortwave): Utilizes heat to destroy the follicle.
Blend Method: Combines both galvanic and thermolysis methods for effective results.
We usually use a blend method of both energies for most clients. This technique allows for the best penetration of current for a deep destruction of all the germinative cells in and surrounding the hair follicles with the least surface reaction.
Benefits of electrolysis:
Versatility: Effective on all hair types and skin tones, including light hair that laser treatments may miss.
Precision: Can be used on any area of the body, including sensitive regions like the face, eyebrows, and bikini line.
Safety: Electrolysis is a safe procedure with minimal side effects, typically limited to slight redness or swelling immediately after treatment.
What to expect from your electrolysis appointment
Hair follicles have three stages: Anagen (growth), Catagen (shedding), and Telogen (dormant). Hair follicles can only be treated when the hair is in the growth phase (anagen). Because there are up to 3200 potentially active hair follicles in a square inch of skin, the process can take multiple treatments. The minimum expected time is usually 1 to 1.5 years with regular clearings. Electrolysis can be performed on all hair colors including gray, blonde and red hair. Appointments can be scheduled based on actively growing visible hair (weekly-monthly sessions ranging from 30min-8 hours). Hair should be grown out to 1/8 inch or about 3 days of active growth.
Post treatment care is usually an OTC topical hydrocortisone cream and antibiotic ointment or other anti-inflammatory topical creams. Cool compresses and ice packs can also aid in reducing swelling, which we are happy to provide you with post-treatment.
High Volume Electrolysis
High volume electrolysis is offered through a partnership between a local Michigan physician (who administers injectable numbing) and our licensed electrologists. It’s usually best for people who are not a candidate for laser hair removal, have a large area to treat, and are very sensitive to regular electrolysis or for those who live a long distance. Multiple treatments will still be necessary for full results. Multiple electrologists (up to 3) can engage in the high volume sessions when scheduled at our location.