Electrolysis is based on the properties of electric current, which can negatively affect the hair roots. Electrical energy is directed to the area of ​​direct hair growth. Modern devices allow you to act in a targeted, precise and safe manner. For this, a special needle or metal thread is used.

To stop hair growth, the follicles are destroyed by electric current. An electrical impulse travels through a thin electrode directly into the follicle, destroying the hair follicle. Destruction is ensured by high temperature. It affects the lower area of ​​the follicles. This ensures complete cessation of hair growth. The follicles literally melt, but for the full effect you will need to undergo several sessions.

Hair of any shade, type and thickness is destroyed. Important condition: hair must be no shorter than 2 mm.

Hair removal using electric current has become widespread and has been successfully used in cosmetology for more than 80 years. At first the procedure was very expensive, but now it is available to every woman.

Types of electrolysis

Different types of electrodes can be inserted. The following methods of electric hair removal are distinguished:

1. Tweezers: The electrode looks like tweezers. It is through it that the current passes. During the procedure, only one hair is captured. The method has low pain, therefore it is often used in particularly sensitive areas (bikini, mustache). Among the disadvantages of the method is that it takes at least two minutes to remove each hair, so it is not used to combat thick hair.
2. Needle: The name refers to the shape of the electrodes. They are extremely thin, about 0.1 mm in diameter. These needles are made from different metals. They can be curved or straight in shape.

The needle method has its advantages:

1. Teflon-insulated needles are used for areas of high pain sensitivity. They do not cause burns.
2. Gold-plated needles are used if the patient has allergies.

Needle electrolysis has a number of types:

1. Electrolyse galvanic: the bulbs are actively affected by galvanic (direct) current. Because of this, caustic alkali quickly accumulates in them. At the end of the procedure, the damaged hair and bulb are removed. During electrolysis, the patient does not experience much pain, but the procedure itself is quite slow.
2. Thermolysis: AC current is used. The procedure is painful, so injections are used for pain relief. In addition, thermolysis can cause burns, so it is not used on the face.
3. Sequential blend: This is a variation of the blend method, but uses a low pulse current. This reduces pain.
4. Blend method: This name is related to the English term “bland”, which means the process of mixing. In this case, the hair is first heated using the thermolysis method, and then the hair follicle is destroyed using electrolysis. The most modern blend epilators are now used. They allow you to individually select the strength of the impact and the frequency of the current.
5. Flash method: The name is related to the English word meaning "flash". This is the most advanced type of thermolysis, which uses high-frequency current. Pain and injury are minimal.
6. Sequential flush: The most modern flash method. In this case, a sinusoidal current of the highest frequency is used, which guarantees speed and maneuverability.

Contraindications and consequences of electrolysis

This technique has a yard of limitations. Contraindications:

1. Heart and vascular diseases, in particular previous heart attack, stroke.
2. Skin inflammation.
3. Endocrine diseases.
4. Tumors of any kind.
5. Pregnancy, breastfeeding.
6. Epilepsy and all kinds of mental pathologies.
7. Metal intolerance.
8. Varicose veins (in this case, you need to use a different method to remove hair from your legs).
9. You should not do the procedure during your period.

The consequences of the procedure are minimized if you trust an experienced cosmetologist and use high-quality modern equipment.

Possible consequences:

• If you miscalculate the current strength, scars may appear. It is also very important not to neglect caring for the treated area after the procedure.
• Often small red spots remain on the skin. These marks disappear after a couple of weeks.
• Itching in the epilation area. This is unpleasant, but considered normal. The main thing is not to scratch, otherwise you can scratch the skin until there is blood and subsequent scars.
• An infection may enter the epidermis.

Advantages and disadvantages of electrolysis

Advantages:

1. Complete, final destruction of the follicles. This means that the hair will never appear again.
2. You can destroy any type of hair, in almost any area.
3. The procedure is available at any age. It doesn't matter how thick your hair is or what condition it is in.
4. Neither skin sensitivity, tanning, nor hair color will interfere with electrolysis.
5. Compared to other modern types of hair removal, this procedure remains relatively inexpensive.

The disadvantages are the following:

1. The procedure is quite expensive. The final cost depends on the set of needles used.
2. Soreness.
3. There is a risk of infection.
4. The session takes quite a long time.

What areas can be treated?

There is a popular belief that electrolysis is only suitable for small areas. It is a myth. This method allows you to remove hair of any thickness and structure on any part of the body; you just need time and patience.

Can electrolysis be done at home?

Devices for home electrical hair removal are now available for sale. In advertising we are convinced that they are effective and at the same time safe. Experts warn that such devices have low power. Most likely, they will not cope with the assigned task or will only remove thin hairs. In addition, only a specialist will be able to accurately select the power of the electrical impulse and ensure proper skin care after the procedure.

Undoubtedly, it is better to give preference to professional equipment rather than household “toys”.

Preparation for the procedure

To make hair removal less painful and as effective as possible, you should prepare for it:

• The day before the procedure, the treated area is scrubbed to remove dead skin cells. The scrub is applied and massaged for a couple of minutes in different directions with smooth, soft movements. Then everything needs to be washed off.
• The skin needs to be moisturized so that the hair follicles become softer. Any body lotion or cream will do.

How is electric hair removal performed?

The procedure at home and in the salon is practically no different. The principle of influence remains the same. The only difference is that the doctor has experience, and you do not. Therefore, the home result may not live up to expectations. In addition, devices for home use have very low power compared to professional salon devices.

Electrolysis in the salon proceeds according to the following algorithm:

1. If necessary, anesthesia is performed. It is most often local. Sometimes a painkiller tablet is taken. The anesthetic is selected depending on the treatment area, hair type, and type of electrolysis.
2. A very thin needle is very carefully inserted into the follicle, along the surface of which a current is applied. Experts recommend tungsten filament. It practically does not cause burns.
3. The needle or thread is held until the hair follicle is destroyed.
4. The hair is removed with tweezers.

The duration of the procedure is from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours.

The home procedure is as follows:

1. Half an hour before the procedure, the hair removal area is treated with an ointment or solution with an anesthetic.
2. One by one, a needle is inserted into the hair follicles and current is passed through it.
3. After the procedure, the treatment area is disinfected.

Since electrolysis is not such a simple cosmetic procedure, you should not do it yourself at home. You may lack dexterity and experience. It is better to entrust your beauty to a professional.

How many sessions are needed?

Don't expect to get the desired effect the first time. You can only remove those hairs that are actively growing. But dormant bulbs will remain untouched. To achieve the desired effect, the procedure must be repeated 5-10 times. A third of the hair will disappear immediately.

results

During one session, you can remove only those hairs that are currently in the active growth stage. An area of ​​10 cm2 can be treated within an hour, so several procedures will be required. Gradually, unnecessary hair is completely removed.

Growing hairs are completely removed, but dormant hair follicles remain. When they start to grow, the procedure must be repeated.

Skin care after electrolysis

To avoid unwanted consequences, it is important to provide proper care.

Does it leave burns?

To avoid burns, it is important to select the current strength and also moisturize the skin. It is important to choose the diameter and material of the needle. After the procedure, you must strictly follow all the recommendations of the cosmetologist.

Cost of the procedure

Hair depilation using current is not a cheap procedure, and you will need to repeat it several times. You should not save on your health and beauty. Choose a salon with a good reputation, and negotiate the price right away. It is important that hair removal is carried out by an experienced cosmetologist. Make sure he uses quality tools. Read reviews about the clinic and cosmetologist. This will reduce the likelihood of complications.

Average cost - 100 rub./minute.

Electrolysis is the use of currents of various types (electrolysis, thermolysis, blend and flash) to destroy hair stem cells to completely get rid of them.

At the Universe of Beauty center, electrolysis has been performed since 1993, that is, 26 years.

We use only disposable gold-plated needles. All specialists have a medical education and correctly positioned hands using our proprietary method.

Electrolysis in a salon in Moscow: prices and description

The technique is invasive: a specialist inserts a thin sterile gold-plated needle into the hair follicle, through which a small but sufficiently powerful discharge is delivered to the growth zone to destroy it and destroy hair stem cells.

It is the destruction of these cells that guarantees the permanentness of the method, that is, hair removal forever.

Validity
Forever (subject to following the method)

Color
Light
Dark
Redheads
Gray haired

Leather
Any phototype according to Fitzpartick

How are they removed?
Electricity

Speed ​​of procedure
Low (process each hair separately)

Only electrolysis removes all unwanted hair permanently in any area, for any skin phototype and hair color and thickness.

Our electrolysis salons are equipped with Spanish Depilplus 13MHz devices. We are co-authors and consultants on its practical application at the development stage, and not only it, but the entire line of electric epilators.

In this model, the sensitivity of therapy was significantly reduced (compared to Depilplus-2) and the speed of work was increased, an auto-control system was introduced, and the emission of ozonized air provided antibacterial and sedative effects.

The history of electrolysis goes back more than 140 years. Until now, this method remains the only one approved by the FDA as providing a 100% guarantee of removing any hair, regardless of skin phototype.

If we describe the technique simply, we can draw an analogy with the grass on the playground. No matter how hard you try to remove the top part, the grass will inevitably germinate again and again, because its root is inaccessible and extremely tenacious. However, as soon as you cement the area, the root dies and the grass stops bothering you.

The same thing happens with hair. By “cementing” the growth zone with the help of current, we eliminate the problem of its visible part. The skin is smooth and even.

However, not every specialist, even with a professional apparatus, is able to carry out the procedure competently: set the necessary parameters, get into the coveted “bag”, and not just get there, but reach the correct depth, not above or below the stem cell zone.

This explains the negative reviews, burns, disappointments, wasted money and time. Very often, people who end up with an illiterate master do not criticize him, but the method itself.

Now in Moscow there are many courses on training in electrolysis, and any person who has completed a 2-day training can receive a diploma, create a page on social networks and offer their services. Hair removal from such a “specialist” turns into not only a waste of time and money, but also a dangerous activity for health.

Wherever you decide to serve, remember that the main components of success are medical education, long-term and competent mentoring, personal experience of the master, sterility of materials and cleanliness of the premises. The specialist must fully understand the technique and have a correctly positioned hand.

Questions and answers on electrical techniques

Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions.

How to prepare for the session?

The most important thing is the height of the hairs. It should be at least 10 mm, and without consultation at least 15 mm. This will mean that the maximum number of them has sprouted in the zone.

Everyone has a different hair growth rate, but approximately this length corresponds to 2-2.5 months of growth after shaving and 3 after sugaring and waxing.

Why so long? The point is that we need to wait until the maximum amount of hair appears from under the skin. This will make the procedure as effective as possible.

Remember that your procedures are for a while (on average 1.5-2 years), and you get the results from them FOREVER.

Therefore, if you decide to have electrolysis, we recommend that you treat it as an important project in your life and “book” time for it in advance.

It is better to start the course in the cold season. Usually this is autumn or winter.

The fact is that after exposure to electric current, red dots remain, which disappear after some time, from one week to three. Therefore, during the summer months, sunlight can cause unwanted pigmentation.

How painful is it and what pain relief is offered?

Electrical hair removal is indeed painful, but the degree of sensation varies depending on each person's personal pain threshold. In addition, sensations vary greatly from zone to zone.

Some clients feel really severe pain, and some may even sleep during the procedure, as far as they are comfortable. Don’t rush to conclusions based on other people’s reviews, sign up for 10 minutes (minimum procedure) and form your own opinion.

However, if pain has become a real obstacle, our centers offer anesthesia to solve this problem. You can check prices for it.

In our center, lidocaine injections are used.

However, if injections are not suitable for you, apply Emla cream under the film 30-60 minutes before the start or 2-3 hours Lidocaine 10% spray. Please note that the film cannot be removed in advance, that is, before the start of the procedure, as this will reduce the effect.

What kind of needles do you use and are they disposable?

We use only disposable gold-plated electrodes from the Spanish brand Wyc.

We know that some clients are apprehensive and want to attend sessions with their own needle. With us, you don’t have to be afraid that you may be served with a “strange” needle. This is simply impossible, since the specialist opens a new cassette in front of you and takes out the electrode from it.

This is our rule and is strictly observed by all specialists.

In addition, all our materials are already included in the cost of the procedure. This is why we have a minimum session time of 10 minutes.

Does hair stop growing immediately after the session or do you need a course of treatments?

Since human hair is in different phases at one point in time, it is necessary to do at least 3 and maximum 6 full courses.

After 6 courses, the amount of hair will be significantly reduced; rare specimens will remain, which will also need to be “selected”.

Remember that after the first selection, about 30% of the volume is lost (that is, 30% of the hair is guaranteed not to grow back the first time). If you did not notice from the first time that there are fewer hairs, you should not continue the procedures, as they are being performed incorrectly.

Where can you do electrolysis?

The method is equally effective on the face and body. Thanks to an individual approach, the specialist can work with any natural curves and remove hairs in the most inaccessible places.

At the same time, ingrown hairs are treated.

If there are no contraindications, the service is performed in any zone.

How safe is it?

The effect of electric current on the human body has been known for more than 140 years, and therefore has been well studied.

Laser, IPL and RF exposure (used in elos hair removal) have a more aggressive effect on the body. In addition, these methods appeared relatively recently and therefore their long-term consequences are unknown, especially for lasers.

Red dots, white pimples, etc. scare me, what is dangerous and what is not?

Immediately after the session, the area may become red. Its intensity depends on the area, the characteristics of your skin, device parameters and other factors. It should go away within 24 hours, although it usually lasts for several hours.

There may also be some swelling. As a rule, it is characteristic of the groin, since the skin there is tender and the cover is thick and thick. It should go away within 1-3 days maximum. The intensity is decreasing.

Here, the appearance of white pimples after 2-3 days is typical. This is lymph, which also occurs at the site of growth of rods that are too thick. You cannot touch or burst them; be sure to wait for them to go away on their own. It will take a couple of days.

After 1-2 days, red crusts may appear, which will also go away in a couple of days, leaving behind tiny red dots. All this is absolutely normal, because the growth zone is being injured to destroy it, and therefore the skin will need some time to recover.

If recommendations are not followed (for example, when clients insist on long-term facial procedures of 40-60 minutes instead of the recommended 10-20), severe swelling, pigmentation, and sores are possible. However, over time, all this passes.

If during or immediately after therapy you notice the appearance of white blisters that turn yellow over time, then these are burns. Probably, the device parameters were selected incorrectly, or the current was set to excessive. Pay attention to this point in the salon where you will be served.

How to care for the area after the session?

Immediately after the session, the specialist will treat the area with alcohol or chlorhexidine. At home, you can treat with chlorhexidine, cindol or solcoseryl gel 2 times a day for 1-2 weeks. This will speed up healing and have an antiseptic effect.

Do not get the area wet for 24 hours after the procedure.

After hair removal, you should not visit swimming pools, baths, saunas and gyms for 5 days to avoid infection.

Remember that in order to prevent pigmentation, visiting solariums or going to the beach is strictly contraindicated during the entire process of skin healing and complete disappearance of marks. Usually this period is 3-4 weeks.

Price list for services for women

Below are the areas with specific times and costs. To find out the price for men, go to the page.

The minimum recording time is 10 minutes, the recording step is 5 minutes.

Zone / Name	Time

The question of removing unwanted body hair worries every woman. Therefore, in the arsenal of cosmetology there are many ways to get rid of them. Among the variety of these methods, electrolysis enjoys particular trust, since it has almost seventy years of experience in use. And, despite the fact that new methods arise, it remains in demand and popular.

A little history

Electric hair removal in cosmetology is rightly considered the oldest method of getting rid of hair. It was discovered in 1875 by American ophthalmologist Charles Michel (1833-1913) and was used to remove ingrown eyelashes. But after 5 years, this method began to be used for cosmetic purposes. In the middle of the last century, the first device for electrolysis was patented. And soon the procedure became very popular in America and England, and in the 70s they began to study it as a subject in medical institutions.

What is electrolysis

Electric hair removal is a method of hair removal by destroying its follicle with a weak electric current. For this purpose, a special device for electrolysis (electric epilator) is used, which has several operating modes and is capable of delivering current discharges of different frequencies, depending on the requirements and method of hair removal. The current is passed through a needle-electrode to the root, and under its influence it dies. This method can remove hairs of any thickness and color. But since the manipulation is carried out with each individual hair, electrolysis takes a lot of time. In 1 hour of work, a skilled cosmetologist can clean an area of ​​skin measuring only 10 by 10 cm.

Electrolysis technique

For complete cleansing, several sessions are required, approximately one month apart. This happens because about 50% of hair on our skin is in the active growth phase. After the destruction of the follicles during the procedure, new hairs begin to grow from nearby inactive bulbs after 2-3 weeks. On average, electrolysis requires about 4 sessions to remove all hair. However, depending on the area, thickness and color of the hair, as well as some individual characteristics, their number may be different:

Number of sessions during electrolysis depending on the zone

In the video you can see the result of the procedure in different areas and with different numbers of sessions:

Types of electrolysis

There are two types of electrolysis depending on the type of electrodes used:
Tweezers
The hair is grabbed with an electrode in the form of tweezers and a high-frequency discharge of electric current is passed, which passes to the follicle and destroys it. The advantages of this type of electrolysis are its painlessness and the absence of side effects (pustules and inflammation), as well as the ability to use it on sensitive areas of the skin. But cosmetologists rarely use this method because it takes a lot of time (it takes about 2 minutes to remove one hair).
Needle.
The most common type. An electrode in the form of a very thin needle is inserted into the follicle and an electric discharge is turned on. It creates heat at the hair root, which ultimately provokes its destruction. The needles used during electrolysis are divided into 3 types: medical alloy for sensitive skin, gold needles for allergy sufferers, and Teflon-insulated needles. These needles are disposable and can only be reused on the same person.

To date There are 4 methods of needle electrolysis And:
1. Thermolysis– a method of influencing the hair root with high-frequency alternating current. An electric current moves the molecules of the follicle, it heats up and is destroyed under the influence of high temperature. This is one of the fastest methods of electrolysis (takes 2 seconds), but also the most painful. Also, if there is an error or lack of qualifications of the specialist performing the procedure, there is a risk of burns.
2.Electrolysis. Using direct current and two electrodes (one is the needle itself, the second is an iron object that is given to a person’s hand), sodium ions appear around the needle. As a result of a further chemical reaction, they turn into alkali, which destroys the follicle. Hydrogen bubbles on the skin indicate the completion of the chemical reaction. Compared to thermolysis, the electrolysis procedure is longer, but does not cause severe pain.
3. Blend. It is a combination of the two methods described above. First, thermolysis is turned on, and then electrolysis. In general, the procedure is not very painful. It takes about 10 seconds to remove hair.
4. Flash is an advanced thermolysis that uses high-frequency direct current. To reduce pain, the electric discharge passes only the end of the needle. The effectiveness of the flash method, as in thermolysis, depends on the qualifications of the specialist. Therefore, it is not recommended to do it on the face and bikini area.

The table shows the comparative characteristics of these methods of electrical hair removal:

Comparative table of characteristics of various electrolysis methods

To get a complete picture of how electrolysis is performed, watch the video:

Where you can and cannot do electrolysis

Most often, women choose this procedure to remove facial hair: above the upper lip, as well as to correct the shape of the eyebrows. It can also be easily applied to the chin, legs and arms. Men mainly remove hair on the back, shoulders and chest, as well as cheekbones and neck.

We also recommend reading:

You should be very careful when doing electrolysis for the bikini area and armpits, since lymph nodes are located there close to the surface. And in the areas of the nose and ears it is strictly prohibited.
In the photo before and after electrolysis you can see the result of the procedure for different areas:

Legs before and after electrolysis

Bikini area before and after electrolysis

Advantages and disadvantages of electrolysis

In order to decide whether to use this hair removal method, you need, as they say, to weigh the pros and cons.
The undoubted advantages of electrolysis are:
Hair removal once and for all. But for this you need to be patient and go through all the hair removal sessions.
The method affects hairs regardless of their color and structure.
Suitable for all skin types.

Of course, electrolysis also has its disadvantages:
Dependence of the quality of work on the qualifications of a specialist. The electrolysis procedure is quite complex and requires precision and high professionalism from the one who performs it. Therefore, you need to carefully choose a specialist who will do it for you.
Soreness. Although it is possible to choose to use a local anesthetic, many clients choose to “stick it out.” At this point, electrolysis loses to other methods of hair removal.
Take a lot of time.
Risk of complications. If you neglect the recommendations for taking care of your skin after depilation, complications such as pustules, scars and inflammation on the skin are possible.
High cost compared to other types of hair removal. Please note that the cost of the procedure includes the price of the work itself plus the price of a needle and painkiller. On average, an hour of session costs about $50-70.

Contraindications and consequences of electrolysis

Contraindications to the procedure include:
Various skin diseases.
Diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
Diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2.
All types of tumors.
Infectious diseases.
Mental disorders.
Individual intolerance to metals and alloys contained in needles.
Intrauterine device.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What could be the consequences?

After the procedure, red spots appear at the site of the removed hair, and after a few days crusts form in these places. You don't have to do anything with them. If you follow the rules of hygiene and doctor's recommendations, they will disappear on their own.

If there is swelling and itching in the treated area of ​​skin, do not worry. After a few days, these symptoms will go away. But if they last more than 3 days, you need to consult a doctor.

Burns can occur as a result of unskilled manipulations by a doctor. They need to be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, such as bepanthen and panthenol - they will reduce the likelihood of scarring. If hygiene rules are not followed, inflammation of the skin and pustules may occur.

Consequences after electrolysis

Preparation for electrolysis

The procedure itself does not require any special preparation. It is enough just for the skin to be clean. Therefore, take a bath if possible. Hair should not be too short and not too long. Their minimum length should be 3 mm to make it easier for the doctor to get into the follicle. However, you shouldn’t get too overgrown. The most acceptable hair length for electrical hair removal is 4 – 6 mm. If you have a high pain threshold, then you should ask the specialist to numb the skin before electrolysis. To do this, apply a special anesthetic cream or lidocoin spray. Injections of ultracaine or lidocoine can also be used.

How to care for your skin after electrolysis?

Skin restoration after all manipulations takes about a week. Of course, I would like to immediately have smooth skin, like after sugaring. In the case of electrolysis, you need to be patient and follow all the doctor’s recommendations in order to enjoy clear skin without unwanted hair after a while.

Following these simple rules will help you quickly recover after electrolysis:
The treated area of ​​skin should not come into contact with water for the first 24 hours.
For the first three days, refrain from taking a hot bath, as well as from using any creams and perfumes (if hair removal was done on the face, then refrain from using decorative cosmetics).
For 4-5 days, you should regularly treat the skin with an antiseptic prescribed by your doctor to avoid infection.
It is forbidden to sunbathe in the first week to prevent age spots from appearing.
Refrain from physical activity. Excessive sweating will cause you to take longer to recover.
Under no circumstances should you peel off the crusts that appear after removal. Otherwise, scars may appear in their place.
Do not touch the skin with dirty hands to avoid infection in the wounds.
Do not use the pool or sauna.
Make sure that clothing and underwear do not rub the treated body parts. Wear loose-fitting clothes.
To avoid unpleasant consequences, you should definitely follow these recommendations for the first week after the procedure. If you are thinking about whether to decide to remove hair in this way or not, then read reviews about the effectiveness of electrolysis:

The fight against unwanted vegetation has been around for over 125 years. During this time he has proven himself excellent.

Equipment for electrolysis has reached a high level of quality, the range of programs has expanded, and the intensity of the impact has increased. The specialists have acquired extensive knowledge, skills and experience.

It is therefore surprising to us that so many misconceptions still surround this procedure.

Is electrolysis as scary as they write about it on the Internet?

It is doubly strange that these erroneous judgments are often heard from the lips of the specialists themselves: professionals and doctors. This not only undermines the credibility of the treatment itself, but also deprives many people of the opportunity to cope with excess hair forever.

Let's highlight the most popular myths and debunk them.

Unbearable pain

The sensations of the device are comparable to slight heat or an insect bite. However, many areas, such as the shins or forearms, are quite easily tolerated by most people.

In addition, modern devices are equipped with a large number of programs that reduce discomfort and speed up the procedure itself.

However, there are areas where sensitivity is naturally increased. For example, the bikini area, armpits, and also the face. Let's not forget about people with a low pain threshold and/or nervousness. In such cases, proper use of pain relief will help.

In our practice, there are cases when clients sleep during electrolysis procedures. Therefore, you should not prepare yourself for pain and negativity in advance. Most likely, everything will not be as scary as you think.

With the right combination of pain relief techniques, exposure time and program parameters, electrolysis will be quite comfortable.

Treatment is long and tedious

A specialist processes each hair. Therefore, depending on the size of the epilation area, the type and thickness of hair, the time to achieve the final result (hair-free forever) can vary greatly.

But not everything depends on the artist or the degree of hair growth - a lot also depends on the person himself. Some people set a goal for themselves and go towards it: they regularly go to procedures, follow the “selection” schedule and do not miss sessions.

Others go from time to time, taking breaks of six months or more, shaving their hair or removing it in other ways between sessions. This is strictly prohibited, as it disrupts the entire process.

These are the people who write reviews on the Internet that electrolysis is a very long and ineffective method.

Yes, you will have to spend time on electrolysis. The full cycle to the final result will take an average of 1.5 years. This is due to the nature of hair growth.

But this does not mean that you will go for electrolysis constantly: first you do the zone once every 1.5-2 months, then once every 3-4 months. The remaining single hairs are picked up every six months until they stop growing altogether. And here it is - the long-awaited freedom from hair for the rest of your life!

Without a doubt, this is much longer than running a razor over the surface of your legs. But on the scale of a lifetime, this is a very small investment of time. Which will pay off in that a high-quality procedure will save you from hair and unnecessary expenses forever.

Regular visits for a year and a half and strict adherence to the specialist's recommendations mean that you will never have to worry about this problem again.

Only suitable for small areas

In reality, this technology is equally suitable for limited areas and large areas. Hair of any color, thickness and quality, located anywhere on the human body, is suitable for electrolysis.

Since hair is removed one at a time, no bending of the body will interfere with this process. A specialist armed with magnifying glasses will be able to see hair of any color on any skin type, and the electrical impulse is always equally effective for all hair.

Expensive compared to other hair removal methods

For the final result, 5-6 sessions of “picking” are required due to the cyclical nature of hair growth. But in the future you will be spared any costs for combating vegetation.

We conducted a study and assessed the relationship between the cost of electrolysis and sugaring. For example, you can permanently remove hair in the classic bikini area using electrolysis, or for the same money you can do sugar depilation of the same area for 2-3 years from time to time.

What to prefer is up to you.

Photo from www.shutterstock.com

Laser and IPL are more effective

Recently, there has been a lot of confusion in determining the effectiveness of lighting technologies. Even cosmetologists themselves often consider laser technology a permanent method, while this method only helps to reduce hair growth, but in no case stop it.

The only FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal today is electrolysis.

The reason for this difference lies in the final “target” of the compared techniques: laser or IPL targets only the hair pigment, and the electrical impulse works with the growth zone, “cementing” (coagulating) it completely.

Scars and burns after the procedure

These complications are completely eliminated when the procedure is correctly performed by the experienced hands of a qualified specialist. After it, only red dots remain, which disappear within 2-4 weeks (remember that sunbathing at this time is strictly prohibited, otherwise pigmentation may remain).

However, as in any industry, the beauty industry should be wary of false services performed by people without the proper experience and education.

It is important for the specialist to be able to use the hair removal device, set the correct intensity parameters on it and control the exposure time.

Therefore, you should thoroughly study the clinic you are going to trust: make sure it has a medical license and experienced specialists.

The technique is outdated

Electrolysis and similar types of electrical techniques have been known for over 125 years.

Over time, the procedure was gradually modernized, the devices were equipped with an increasingly wider selection of programs and parameters, reaching heights of efficiency and comfort. And, most importantly, proven safety. And this is your life and health.

Modern devices, such as Depilplus 13MHz and Depilplus 3, allow specialists to perform procedures with minimal pain in a short time. And, as mentioned above, this is still the only proven permanent method (the hair will disappear forever).

Home appliances are equally effective compared to salon treatments

The market is filled with a variety of home care devices. Advertising actively convinces us of amazing results that are comparable to a salon procedure.

But this is another myth, since the parameters of these devices are not nearly as intense in comparison with professional equipment. The electrical impulse in them is not strong enough to kill the hair follicles.

Think for yourself: could the producers have built in a sufficient level of intensity in them? After all, an inexperienced person can easily get a severe burn and then sue the company that produced the device.

According to American studies, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration, USA) has not approved these methods as a definitive hair removal method.

The same hair must be removed several times in a row

Unfortunately, this is a very common misconception. Many forums are full of questions and messages that people have been going for electrolysis for years. And every time they are told that a couple more selections, and the number of hairs will finally begin to decrease.

This myth arose due to incompetent hairdressers who only tug at the hair with tweezers, inserting the needle incorrectly or setting the wrong parameters. In this case, you can actually remove hair for years and still not get results.

Remember that 5-6 selections are allocated for each zone, after which very sparse or single hairs remain. And after the first selection, about 30% of the hair is gone (that is, 30% of the hair is guaranteed not to grow back the first time). Think about it if this didn't happen.

Careful entry into the follicle and correctly selected current intensity do the job the first time.

Temporary methods are preferable and safer

Depilatory creams contain chemicals with irritating and allergenic components, so they often have the opposite effect. Hair lightening preparations can not only cause discoloration of the skin itself, but also provoke dermatitis.

Home epilators contribute to the appearance of ingrown hairs, especially in sensitive bikini and armpit areas, which sometimes even require surgical intervention.

Photo from www.shutterstock.com

Waxing is a rather painful method, and when used at home it is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

All temporary methods also remove vellus hair, which over time degenerates into dark and coarse hair.

We calculated how many years you can do sugaring with the money spent on electrolysis. On average, the ratio is 2-3 years per zone. That is, you can remove all hair forever or remove hair with sugaring during these 2-3 years. From our point of view, I want to be beautiful a little longer :)

After a thorough analysis of most misconceptions, it is easy to notice that it is still the only method that guarantees complete removal of unwanted vegetation.

It has been proving its safety and effectiveness in the battle against unwanted hair for a century and a quarter.

Sign up for a free consultation at our center and receive a 5% discount on your first procedure.

The modern beauty industry has come very far in everything related to improving the appearance of the fair half of humanity. Among salon procedures, pride of place is occupied by those designed to rid lovely ladies of excess hair on the body. Such procedures are called “epilation” and “depilation”. The difference between these two concepts lies in the effect on the hair follicle and the hair shaft itself. During hair removal, the hair root is destroyed; depilation involves removing only the visible part of it. Depilatory procedures include shaving with a razor and the use of special creams and mousses. There are more types of hair removal: waxing, sugaring, photo and laser hair removal, as well as the procedure that we will pay the most attention to today – electrolysis.

Peculiarities

Electrical hair removal involves the following algorithm of action: using a special device for electrical hair removal, a very thin needle-electrode is inserted into the hair follicle. A current discharge passes through it, which, creating a high temperature in the affected area, “burns out” the hair root. Thanks to this aggressive approach, unwanted hairs disappear forever.

How and where do they do it?

The electrolysis procedure is carried out in specialized cosmetology centers and beauty salons by professional cosmetologists. You must first come for a consultation and discuss all the nuances with a specialist, since electrolysis has contraindications. You also need to know that doing it is quite unpleasant and time-consuming. The doctor will recommend pain medication and prescribe a course of procedures depending on the severity of the problem.

Electrical hair removal is carried out using a special device. The most popular devices are from ROS»S, such as Depil-Plus 13 Mhz, Depil-Plus 2, Kh-12 Plus, as well as e Depilprogram Ultrasystem Plus Active Line and Russian electroepilator EHHF-20-MTUSI. These devices not only efficiently and quickly deal with excess hair, but also protect the skin during the procedure. Each device presented has its own features and parameters, which your cosmetologist should inform you about in order to form the most accurate idea of ​​what effect you can achieve with this epilator model.

In general, the electrolysis procedure is quite common; it is performed in many cosmetology centers. In the North-Eastern Administrative District of Moscow alone, there are more than 300 salons offering this procedure.

Kinds

There are several types of electrolysis, which depend on the type of electrode used:

• Tweezer method. The purpose of this procedure is to capture each individual hair with a kind of “tweezers” that transmits current. This method is good because it is quite painless, and it can be used to treat sensitive areas such as the face and bikini. However, the duration of the procedure is very long - it takes almost 2 minutes to remove each hair, so it is advisable to carry it out only on small areas of skin with not too thick hair;
• Needle method. The hair follicle is destroyed by introducing a conductive needle-electrode into it. These needles are made from various materials (special medical alloys, Teflon or gold coated) and have different shapes and thicknesses.

Needle electrolysis is divided into several subtypes:

• Thermolysis. The essence of the procedure is high-frequency exposure to low-voltage alternating current. This is one of the most painful methods, which involves injection anesthesia of the treated skin areas. Thermolysis in the facial area is excluded;
• Galvanic electrolysis. The hair root is exposed to direct current. Around the needle, sodium ions are formed, which, interacting with skin secretions, form an alkaline solution that has a detrimental effect on the hair follicle. Electrolysis is less painful, but the speed of the procedure is quite low;
• Blend method. This is a mixture of the two previous methods. To begin with, the hair root is heated by thermolysis, and then destruction occurs using electrolysis. To carry out electrolysis using this method, there are special computerized devices for the best selection of a combination of frequency and degree of impact;
• Sequential blend. A more advanced version of the blend method. Their difference lies in the use of low-pulse current in the sequential method, which reduces the pain of the procedure;
• Flash method. Essentially, this is thermolysis, but using high-frequency direct current. This method eliminates excessive trauma to the skin and reduces pain;
• Sequential flash. Used for simultaneous removal of hairs of different thicknesses. Perhaps the fastest way to perform the electrolysis procedure.

The choice of method that will help you combat unwanted hairs should be dictated by the choice of treatment area. The electrolysis procedure can be performed on the face (correction of the shape of the eyebrows, treatment of the upper lip to remove mustaches, individual areas on the chin), arms, legs, back, buttocks, thighs, and abdomen. There are some restrictions on epilation of the armpits. The color, thickness and thickness of the hair also plays a role. The cosmetologist who will work on your problem will tell you all this.

Efficiency

In order to get the maximum effect from the electrical hair removal procedure, you must remember to comply with certain conditions. The fact is that in this way you can remove hair that is in the anagen (growth) stage, but there is only about 30% of it on the human body. That is why it is recommended to repeat the procedure several times in order to gradually destroy all unnecessary vegetation.

A dermatocosmetologist should conduct an electrolysis session. He will be able to choose the right approach to your problem and tell you how to avoid negative consequences.

Different zones mean different pain sensations. The chin, arms and legs tolerate electrolysis quite easily, but removing mustaches and treating the bikini area can be quite painful. Removal of hairs in the nose and ears is completely excluded.

You shouldn't grow your hair too long, but it shouldn't be too short either. The optimal length is from 2.5 to 3.5 millimeters.

You can verify the effectiveness of the procedure if you notice that hair growth has decreased by at least 10%, and they have become thinner and lighter.

How many sessions are needed?

Preparation

The preparatory procedures, in principle, do not differ from those that are recommended before sugaring and waxing sessions: you need to thoroughly scrub the areas of the intended treatment, take a warm shower or sit in the bath. Of course, your hair needs to grow to at least 2.5 mm.

If you are not ready to endure pain in the name of beauty, discuss possible pain relief options with a cosmetologist, or treat your skin yourself with a cream such as Emla a couple of hours before the session.

Comparison before and after

Of course, it is better to see once than to hear a hundred times. In the photo archives of cosmetology centers you can find a lot of photographs “before” and “after” electrolysis. The results, of course, are amazing - smooth skin where there was just “thickets” and much less hair that has grown back over time. However, not all photos are so encouraging. You can often see a picture that shows a pronounced rash, crusts and other microdamages. And it becomes unclear which photographs to believe more.

Experts in the field of cosmetology and dermatology argue that negative consequences after the electrical hair removal procedure are possible only if the skin is not properly cared for. If you follow all the doctor’s instructions and do not neglect care products, nothing threatens you.

Skin care

Taking care of your skin during post-procedure rehabilitation is very important, and it is equally important to do it correctly. Your cosmetologist, of course, if necessary, will recommend certain products depending on the reaction of your skin to electrolysis, however, there is a list of some general rules that it is advisable to follow in order to reduce the risk of complications to a minimum:

• In the first 3-5 days after the procedure, it is prohibited to apply products with perfume fragrances and too heavy, oily texture to the treated surfaces;
• During the week, forget about the solarium, beach, sauna, bathhouse and gym;
• Instead of a hot bath, use a warm shower for daily hygiene;
• Wipe the treated areas with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection. It is advisable to do this every few hours for 5 days;
• If there are crusts, under no circumstances should you scratch them or try to pick them off - you risk getting scars that will remain forever;
• Use medications such as D-panthenol, Levomekol, Bepanten. You can use light moisturizing creams with chamomile, aloe, calendula

Contraindications and consequences

Electrolysis is a fairly radical and aggressive procedure; it simply cannot but have contraindications. So, You should choose another product to get rid of unwanted hair if:

• You have varicose veins;
• You are pregnant (at any stage);
• You have problems with the lymph nodes and the lymphatic system in general;
• you have diabetes;
• There are problems with the psyche or cardiovascular system;
• Skin, infectious or cancer diseases are present;
• You have a pacemaker.

As for the possible consequences, everything is purely individual and depends on many factors. For some people, hair growth stops after the 3rd procedure, while others need to take a couple of courses to achieve the same effect. Micro-scars, burns or pigment spots may appear on the surface of the skin. Therefore, before deciding to undergo this rather expensive procedure that takes quite a long time to achieve the main goal, you need to consult with an endocrinologist and take tests to determine your hormonal status. Only then can you be sure that electrolysis is really what you need.

Can it be done at home?

Many girls are quite successful in waxing or sugaring themselves, at home. And, of course, the question arises: is it possible that electrolysis can also be done independently? After all, then you can save money, and the device will always be at hand and you can “walk” through unwanted hairs at any time, gradually killing them. The answer to this question is: you shouldn't do it. Firstly, any device for home use is much weaker than salon ones and you will not be able to achieve the desired effect. Secondly, the sanitization of a cosmetologist’s workplace is still better than in your apartment, even if you are a fan of cleanliness and do wet cleaning every day. And thirdly, if side effects occur, you will one way or another have to see a doctor and treatment can be no less expensive than electrolysis in a salon.

Therefore, think about whether the risk is equal to the fact that you may be able to save a couple of thousand rubles. Electrical hair removal is not an easy procedure; certified specialists are trained to perform it, and they also know how to cope with possible negative consequences. Don't risk your health and beauty in the name of some pseudo-economy.

Advantages and disadvantages

Electric hair removal has a number of advantages and disadvantages in comparison with other types of combating excess body hair. After reading them, you can decide whether to choose this method or whether it is better to pay attention to something else.

Advantages of electrolysis:

• Suitable for any hair and skin type;
• Only with its help is it possible to say goodbye to unnecessary hairs forever;
• Can be used on almost any part of the body.

Minuses:

• If you have previously waxed, sugared, or used a home mini-epilator, electric hair removal may not be suitable for you. The fact is that in the process of performing the procedures, you could damage the hair roots and bend them. In this case, the electroepilator needle may simply not achieve its intended purpose and completely destroy the follicle;
• To obtain the maximum possible effect, several sessions, sometimes even several courses, are required. As was said earlier, electricity can only remove hair that is in the active growth stage - anagen, and there are only 30-40% of those on our body. In addition, there are also “sleeping” follicles, which for the time being do not manifest themselves in any way, but subsequently hair may appear from them, which will also require attention;
• The electrolysis procedure is quite lengthy and not everyone has the patience to sit through each session. For example, it will take you almost 20 minutes to remove the antennae. Think about how long it will take to epilate both legs;
• It is expensive. Yes, electric hair removal is an expensive procedure, since it requires painstaking work. Considering that you will have to do it again and again, it is better to calculate, first, whether its cost is comparable to the expected effectiveness.

Is it harmful?

Of course, even if electrolysis is carried out in a cosmetology center by a competent and experienced dermatocosmetologist, some minor troubles cannot be ruled out. Don’t be alarmed, most of them are harmless and can be easily eliminated:

• Red spots on the skin. They appear due to increased sensitivity of the treatment area and, as a rule, disappear on their own within 1.5-2 weeks;
• Scars, microburns. May be a consequence of incorrect calculation of the required current strength;
• Itching. This is a normal phenomenon, but it is strictly forbidden to comb the affected skin, as there is a possibility of infection entering the wound surface;
• Infection during the procedure. Such a nuisance can occur due to insufficient health literacy and hygiene in the specialist’s workplace.

To prevent all these possible consequences at the end of the electrolysis session, follow these instructions:

• Treat the skin with chlorhexidine or an alcohol solution;
• Do not wash, bath or shower for 24 hours;
• Monitor the condition of your skin: if symptoms of irritation worsen, contact your cosmetologist for treatment recommendations.

FAQ

Before you decide to undergo this rather complicated and expensive procedure, you would like to know more about it. We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions and tried to provide comprehensive answers to them.

How is it different from photoepilation?

In fact, there are several differences, and all of them are quite significant. The first difference is the mechanism of action on the hair follicle. We already know that electrolysis is its destruction using current; Photoepilation involves some kind of “irradiation” of the hair root with a light flash, as a result of which the color pigment melanin heats up and gradually destroys it.

The second difference is the degree of trauma to the skin. During the electrolysis procedure, a kind of “acupuncture” occurs when the needle penetrates the hair follicle. This, although very little, injures the skin. Photoepilation does not involve damage to the dermis.

Electric hair removal allows you to get rid of unwanted hair immediately during the session, since the hair cannot stay in the skin without a root. If you choose photoepilation, then be prepared for the fact that the hairs will fall out gradually, over 1-2 weeks, and during this period they cannot be shaved or removed in other ways, so you will have to endure the hair on the body.

Photoepilation is good only for dark hair, since the principle of its action is based on the destruction of melanin, and everyone knows that the darker the hair, the better it attracts light. Electrolysis can be performed on hair of absolutely any color, even gray hair.

Can it be done during menstruation?

A question that worries many women, because there are many procedures that are prohibited to be carried out on “critical days.” The fact is that during this period the female body becomes most vulnerable, the pain threshold decreases, and due to hormonal fluctuations, a deterioration in mood and general well-being is possible. And electrolysis is not the most pleasant thing anyway.

As for medical recommendations, there are no contraindications. However, practice shows that the best time for this procedure is the 13th or 14th day of the cycle. At this time, the female body is least susceptible to pain.

If you just need to go for electrolysis, but it just so happens that you have started your period, don’t be upset and go. Although, of course, refrain from treating the bikini area.

How long can you not sunbathe after?

Can it be done in summer?

Yes, you can. But first, be sure to consult with a cosmetologist, who will warn about possible negative consequences and give recommendations on care and protection from ultraviolet rays.