Electrolysis is a form of hair removal that involves applying an electric current with a very fine, needle-shaped electrode into each hair follicle to destroy each individual hair at the root. In order to decide if this is the best method for hair removal for you, there are several things to consider. Here is a look at some of the pros and cons of electrolysis for unwanted hair removal.
Pros of Electrolysis
There are many factors about electrolysis that make it a good option for unwanted hair removal. These include:
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Its track record: Out of all methods for unwanted hair removal, electrolysis has the overall best results for removing hair for long periods of time, or even permanently. If you are looking for the most permanent way to remove hair from a specific area, electrolysis may be the best option for you.
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Its versatility: Some other types of hair removal target hair pigment color—such as laser hair removal. Electrolysis, on the other hand, attacks the hair follicle itself, which means that it is not limited to a specific hair or skin type or color.
Cons of Electrolysis
There are also some things about electrolysis you should know before you commit to this solution. These include:
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Potential complications: If you have previously waxed or tweezed the area of hair that you are treating with electrolysis, this can result in making the hair removal process much more difficult. If the hair follicles become bent or misshapen, which often happens while tweezing or waxing, this could make it much more difficult to get the needle to the root of the hair and destroy the follicle. This could result in more sessions, as well as the potential for more pain or discomfort during the sessions.
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Treatment Length: Even if your electrolysis sessions go smoothly, you will still need anywhere from 15 to 30 sessions before the treatment series is complete. This means that you will need to be extremely committed to this option, as each treatment will need to be approximately a week to two weeks apart. Electrolysis can potentially take a lot of time before you are able to realistically see results.
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Price: It is estimated that a woman receiving electrolysis for bikini area hair removal could potentially spend about $600 by the time her treatment series for electrolysis is complete. While costs will vary depending on the size of the area, how much hair needs to be removed, and where you go for the service, you can expect to spend about $45 for each 30-minute session of electrolysis, which can add up quickly.
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Skin discoloration: Though this is most likely if the procedure is improperly done, it is a possibility to be considered.
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Potential pain: Electrolysis is usually compared to the sensation of stinging or pricking, but everyone has their own tolerance for pain—and you have to keep in mind that every single hair follicle has to go through it before it is over.
