Permanent hair removal methods allow patients to feel comfortable and confident in their bodies. However, not all permanent hair removal methods are ideal for every case, and patients should commit to research to determine the best treatment option for their needs. Electrolysis is one form of permanent hair removal that can produce long-lasting effects for various use cases.

On The Skin Report podcast, Dr. Simran Sethi, an Internal Medicine doctor and Founder of RenewMD medical spas and Skin by Dr. Sethi, discusses hair removal treatments. In an interview with Nicole Bain of Nicole’s Electrolysis, they discuss electrolysis, a popular method of permanent hair removal with safe and effective results. Read on to learn what electrolysis is, how it differs from laser hair removal, and who can benefit from it.

What is electrolysis, and how does it work?

Electrolysis is a safe and effective method of permanent hair removal approved by the FDA. It has been trusted by users over the past 100 years for its ability to safely rid people of unwanted hair growth and produce long-lasting results.

The electrolysis process involves gently treating each individual hair follicle with a tool that delivers a small current to permanently damage the hair growth cells. The current creates a reaction using the follicle’s moisture, killing the unwanted hair growth cells.

People usually undergo electrolysis over a series of treatments, as hair grows in cycles. Most people return weekly to address new hairs emerging in the growth stage.

How electrolysis differs from laser hair removal

While electrolysis and laser hair removal can each produce effective results, there are important differences to consider when choosing between the two treatments.

Both electrolysis and laser hair removal work by targeting the hair follicle. However, laser hair removal destroys the hair follicle and requires pigment in the hair follicle to do so. Alternatively, the electrolysis probe relies only on moisture in the hair follicle to work.

Another significant distinction between laser hair removal and electrolysis has to do with hair color. Laser hair removal cannot treat hair that has turned gray or white because there isn’t any pigment remaining for the laser to target and destroy. Therefore, electrolysis is the only solution to reduce or permanently eliminate gray or white hair.

Who would benefit from electrolysis?

Are there specific hair colors that respond better to electrolysis?

Well, electrolysis is effective on all hair types, all skin types, and all areas of the body. The color or coarseness of the hair doesn’t impact the treatment’s effectiveness.

People who commonly seek electrolysis treatments

There are many reasons that people choose electrolysis to treat their unwanted hair growth.

People with hair that lacks pigment:

Electrolysis is an excellent choice for women going through menopause or those experiencing white or gray hair growth. Whenever patients want to get rid of hair lacking pigment, Nicole recommends electrolysis for guaranteed results.

People with PCOS or Hormonal Conditions:

People with hormonal conditions such as PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, often experience extensive hair growth. According to Nicole, laser hair removal is often less effective on those hormonally caused hairs. Meanwhile, overwaxing, over shaving, and over-tweezing these hairs can damage the skin.

Fortunately, electrolysis and proper treatment from medical professionals can produce incredible results in people with these conditions who want to permanently treat their unwanted hair.

Skin tone and electrolysis

People with darker skin tones and lighter skin tones can safely do electrolysis treatments, as electrolysis works effectively on all types of skin without producing any permanent changes to the skin.

Nicole explains that in most cases, the effects of the treatment on the skin are mild and can involve temporary redness or irritation that will heal quickly.

Still, it is important for patients to always be vigilant and cautious when treating their unwanted hair growth. Dr. Sethi and Nicole recommend looking at your skin after and during the session to ensure that you do not have any skin changes due to the treatment.

Also, clients must follow proper post-treatment care instructions to protect their skin after electrolysis sessions. This involves avoiding sun exposure and avoiding scratching or touching the treatment area.

Following the proper post-treatment care will have your skin looking unchanged and healthy after your treatment.

To learn more about electrolysis and what to expect from an electrolysis hair removal treatment session, tune into Season 2, Episode 12 of The Skin Report podcast!