Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal technique with a long and elaborate history.
Dr. Charles E. Michel first reported using this technique in 1875 in managing ingrown eyelashes but it is another doctor Dr. W.A. Hardaway who stole the thunder by publishing his works in scientific journal in 1878. By this time a good number of doctors were using electrolysis in their therapies. Electrolysis as therapeutic method became well known in the latter part of the 20th century and has had a steady stream of technological advances.
The US FDA has approved electrolysis as a permanent hair removal method. Multiple sessions are required to achieve the best results though there is no 100% guarantee of success for everyone. Patience is needed as the process could take several years of scheduled sessions.
Electrolysis works by applying current using a very fine needle shaped electrode. Individual hairs are targeted and it takes about a minute to destroy the root. Hair that is in the growth phase is the best target for electrolysis. Not all hair is in the same stage of growth and as a result repeated sessions of electrolysis are needed to get the hair in the growth phase.
The good
Of all the permanent methods of hair removal, electrolysis has the best track record. Its long service has enabled sufficient studies and observations on hair re-growth. In many cases, the results of electrolysis are permanent- which is the intended purpose.
Electrolysis targets the hair follicle; it is not dependent on hair pigment like the laser methods. White and grey hair can therefore be cleared by electrolysis. This is the one advantage electrolysis holds ever more recent methods like laser treatment.
The bad
On the flip side, electrolysis is a long and tedious procedure. Each hair follicle has to be treated to its own dose of electricity for about a minute. Covering a small are can take hours. Electrolysis will require many sessions usually around 15- 30 scheduled sessions. To clear the chin can take more than a year. The effectiveness of electrolysis can also be jeopardized by previous hair removal techniques like waxing or tweezing. These techniques bend the hair follicle hence making it difficult for the needle to reach the root of the hair follicle. Electrolysis can cause skin discoloration if improperly done.
Electrolysis also rate as poorly on the pain meter. It will cause a stinging and prickling sensation as the needle is applied and each follicle has to go through the same treatment.
