Facial Electrolysis

Facial electrolysis, or electrology, is a hair removal treatment that "kills" the hair follicle with electric current.

Because each hair follicle is treated separately, it requires many sessions to remove all of the hair in the area treated. But the results are permanent and the process can be performed on any type of hair.

Like laser hair removal, electrolysis is a permanent solution to unwanted facial hair. But laser hair removal, which focuses on the pigment in the hair, is most effective on dark, coarse hair on light skin. Electrolysis, on the other hand, can be used on fine, "peachfuzz" hair as well, on light or dark skin.

In an electrology treatment, the technician inserts a very fine metal probe into the hair follicle. An electrical current is delivered through the probe, which destroys the follicle. The hair is then removed and will not grow back.

The probe is inserted into the hair follicle only, not the skin. The skin should never be punctured or "pricked" during the procedure. There may be some minor discomfort with the procedure, but it should not be painful.

The process only works on actively growing hair, so repeated treatments are necessary to reach all hair follicles. Treatment sessions are usually scheduled weekly and may last up to an hour each. The process can take 1 - 3 years to fully remove the hair, depending on the size of the area being treated.

When choosing an electrologist, check for a license or certification, and ask for a consultation. Most will happily provide a free consultation, at which time you can ask as many questions as you'd like until you know what to expect of the procedure. Also, look around at the facility - is it clean and orderly? Would you be comfortable having a minor medical procedure there?

This procedure can only be performed by a licensed technician, usually in a med spa environment.

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