A trained  electrologist inserts a small metal probe into the hair follicle alongside the hair. A small amount of electrical current is then delivered to the probe by a sensitive electronic device called an epilator.  Depending on the technique used, the electric current destroys the hair root either by  heat or chemical action and  in some methods by both at the same time.

Here are three recognized modalities (methods) of electrolysis:

      – Galvanic – (direct current) electrolysis the hair is destroyed by chemical action.
      – Thermolysis – (high frequency) the hair root is destroyed by heat production.
      – Blend – electrolysis a combination of the above two modalities where the hair root is destroyed by both heat and chemical action at the same time.

All three modalities are safe and effective.  Your electrologist will choose the modality which is best for you.

Electrolysis has been shown to be permanent.  Its permanency has been well recognized by knowledgeable physicians and is also testified to by hundreds of scientific articles published in the medical literature.  It is the only  method approved by the FDA as permanent.

No.  There is absolutely no reputable scientific evidence that shows any other method of hair removal being as safe, effective and permanent as electrolysis.

From time to time, methods of hair removal have been advertised where the hair is grasped by a tweezer connected to an electric current source.  The electric
current allegedly travels down the hair shaft to destroy the  hair root without any probe or needles.  There is no published, reputable scientific data that I am aware of to support the effectiveness of this method of hair removal.   It is my impression that the no needle and electronic tweezing methods are no more effective in permanent removal of hair than ordinary tweezing.

Not very well.  If the home method is one where the probe is inserted into the hair follicle, it has the potential for working.   The problem with home methods is treating yourself which often requires mirrors or having an untrained friend help you.  The techniques of electrolysis requires significant training for proper hand eye coordination and is usually performed  using a special light and magnification.  Without proper training, adequate  light and magnification,  I feel the home methods, in most cases, will not be worth the effort and expense.

Electrolysis requires a series of treatments given over a period of time.  The length of time varies from person to person and is dependent on many factors.  The density and coarseness of the hair as well as the total area to be treated, are very important.  How well you tolerate treatments and the consistency of the treatment affect the overall success.  The cause of the unwanted hair and the temporary methods of dealing with the hair in the past are also involved in the treatment time.  Many hairs will be permanently removed after the first treatment while some will require additional treatments to achieve permanency.  Treatment will be more frequent in the beginning and less frequent later on.  The overall results, permanent, hair free skin, are well worth the time spent.