If you’re looking to get rid of unwanted or excessive facial or body hair, you have a multitude of options to choose from these days. However, one solution stands out above the rest—electrolysis permanent hair removal. In fact, electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal technique approved by the FDA and is highly effective for removing hair of all textures and colours from all facial and body regions.
When carried out by a skilled and experienced electrologist, electrolysis is a safe procedure, offering life-long results. In this article, we will examine some of the common side effects of electrolysis to be aware of when considering this treatment. But first, it’s important to understand the basics of permanent hair removal with electrolysis.
How does electrolysis work?
During electrolysis hair removal treatment, the electrologist inserts a tiny, hair-thin filament into each individual hair follicle and passes very small electrical current through it. This catalyses a chemical reaction that permanently eliminates the hair follicle’s stem cells, removing its ability to grow back. Therefore, unlike other methods such as laser hair removal and IPL, electrolysis is the only technique that provides results that last a lifetime.
Are there any risks with electrolysis?
Electrolysis has been approved by the FDA and has a proven track record of being a safe and effective procedure for permanent hair removal. However, electrolysis carried out by inexperienced individuals and using uncertified equipment is unsafe and carries risks of permanent skin damage, including scarring. This is why it is necessary to find a reliable and experienced electrolysis professional in order to ensure safety and the highest standard of electrolysis permanent hair removal treatment.
What are the side effects of electrolysis?
When performed by a qualified and registered professional, the side effects of electrolysis are usually mild and temporary. Let’s take a closer look.
1. Redness and swelling
Since electrolysis permanent hair removal involves inserting a tiny needle into each individual hair follicle over the treated area, it is not uncommon to experience some redness and swelling of the treated skin region. Usually, people experience these effects immediately following the electrolysis treatment session, and they resolve on their own, within several hours. Inflammation is the skin’s normal response to microinjury, and is a necessary step for the skin’s healing process.
2. Scabbing
Due to the nature of electrolysis treatment and the skin being pricked with a tiny probe, some people experience tiny scab formation after their electrolysis session. This is part of the natural skin healing response to microinjury, and serves to protect the disrupted skin layers as they become repaired. During this time, it is crucial to avoid scratching the scabs and picking at them, as this can lead to long-term and even permanent skin scarring.
3. Dryness
Some people temporarily experience dry skin after electrolysis hair removal treatment. Since this process produces some heat inside the hair follicle and temporarily disrupts the skin’s integrity, this can lead to skin dehydration. Therefore, it is essential to stay hydrated after receiving electrolysis treatment, by drinking water and keeping the skin moisturised with a hydrating cream.
4. Bruising
After electrolysis, there may be some minor and temporary bruising on the treated skin. The resulting bruises are usually tiny and are formed due to the electrolysis probe coming in contact with the hair follicles’ capillaries, creating micro-haemorrhaging. The post-electrolysis bruising typically resolves within several days, and can be alleviated by topical ‘Arnica’ products that can be purchased from your chemist. This ointment soothes skin and promotes the skin’s healing response.
The importance of electrolysis aftercare
In order to achieve the best results and reduce the risk of unwanted side effects, it is important to practice proper electrolysis aftercare following treatment. Your electrologist will provide you with specific instructions on how to take care of your skin to minimise irritation and facilitate the healing process. Typically, electrolysis aftercare involves the following steps :
Keeping the treated area clean:
Your electrologist will recommend a gentle cleanser to apply to the skin for several days after treatment in order to avoid the risk of infection.
Being patient:
It is vital to let the skin heal in its own time, and to avoid rubbing or peeling any scabs off to avoid the risk of scarring and ensure optimal recovery after treatment.
Protecting the skin from direct sun:
It is extremely important to avoid direct sun exposure in the months following your electrolysis treatment to reduce the risk of skin burn, leading to skin damage and hyperpigmentation. You can protect your skin by covering up or using sunscreen with a high SPF.
Avoiding cosmetic products:
After electrolysis treatment, the skin’s pores temporarily remain open, making it more susceptible to the risk of infection. It is, therefore, important to avoid applying makeup and other cosmetic products to the treated area until the skin heals completely.
Avoid physical activity and sweating:
Following electrolysis permanent hair removal, it is important to avoid exercising and any activities which can result in excessive sweating, including visiting saunas and Jacuzzis. This is because physical activity, higher temperatures, and sweating can exacerbate skin irritation and inflammation post-electrolysis.
In Conclusion
When carried out by a reliable and certified professional, electrolysis is a safe, precise, and versatile method of permanent hair removal. However, like any cosmetic procedure, electrolysis permanent hair removal is associated with some mild and temporary side effects, including skin irritation and sensitivity. Finding a trusted electrolysis clinic and practicing proper electrolysis aftercare is important to minimise the risk of side effects and achieve optimal results.
Are you looking for a reliable electrolysis clinic in Melbourne? At AEM Electrolysis, our certified electrolysis experts provide the highest standard of electrolysis treatment to ensure the best results for all our clients. We will also provide an initial consultation to address any of your concerns, as well as a detailed electrolysis aftercare regimen, walking you through each step of the process. Call us today to learn more.
