What is Electrolysis and how will it help your skin?
Your genetic make up determines the amount of body hair you have. Excessive hair growth is a very common problem, affecting self esteem and driving people into supermarkets and pharmacies in search of the next hair removal cream or waxing home kit. For some though, this can lead to bigger problems, as what may have started as a few random stragglers on your chin now seems to be covering large areas of your face. We see this every day in our line of work and would urge you to seek advice from a professional before you start to tamper and create a bigger problem. There are various options available to you; electrolysis has been around for a long time and can treat any colour of hair, skin type and there is no waiting for 4 weeks between sessions as you would have to, in the case of laser hair removal. in addition, virtually any area of the body can be treated.
Some common cause of hair growth:
Hirsuitism is a condition that can arise in woman due to excessive male hormones causing hair to grow in areas where men normally grow hair such as the face, back and chest.
Hypertrichosis refers to abnormal hair growth often over the entire body but can also be localised.
Polycystic Ovaries causes excessive hair growth usually on the face, chest. back and buttocks.
Hormonal changes within the body can influence hair growth, for example woman going through the menopause can experience increased facial hair.
Some drugs, temporary methods of hair removal and illness can stimulate hair growth.
As most of these conditions are influenced by internal factors they will regular management of hair removal. We have seen many positive results from clients suffering from these conditions.
So what is electrolysis?
An electric current is applied with a very fine needle-shaped electrode, or metal probe into each hair follicle to destroy the root. There are three types of electrolysis,galvanic, thermolysis and blend.
The hair growth pattern has many stages, the growing stage, resting stage and shedding stage. Multiple sessions of electrolysis are needed because all the hairs will be at a different stage in the growth cycle at any given time, it can take multiple treatments to get the hair in the growth stage for the electrolysis treatment to be most effective.
Electrolysis will not cause too much discomfort but you can use a topical anaesthetic, ask your electrologist for advice. A skilled practitioner should be able to adapt the treatment to suit your needs.
How do you find a good electrologist?
Honestly … they are like hen’s teeth!! Ask around, friends, family, your GP, or someone who has had electrolysis. When you go for your consultation have a good look around, are there certificates on display? Is the clinic clean? Does the electrologist use disposable gloves and disposable needles? You will instinctively get a good vibe or not!!
Skin problems associated with excessive hair growth.
Quite often clients who suffer from PCOS or any other hormonal related hair growth condition may also suffer from acne. In the first instance see your GP, medications for acne such as antibiotics or even the contraceptive pill can help. Your GP will advise you. Personal hygiene is essential, keep your hands away from your face, ensure you have a good home care regime, cleanse, tone and moisturise the skin every day. Exfoliation is also important. For coverage, mineral make up is the way to go, it is non comdogenic and will protect your skin whilst allowing you the coverage you need and in most cases providing you with an SPF. Your local salon should be able to advise you.