Elektrolyse

Electrolysis hair removal

Introduction

For many women, regardless of their gender identity, having facial hair can be very stigmatizing and embarrassing. It can lead to feelings of shame and insecurity and can even lead to social isolation and discrimination. For example, having facial hair can lead to unwanted attention or comments from others, making (trans) women feel uncomfortable and unsafe in their own bodies.

For trans women, having facial hair can be even more fraught. If they want to live full-time as women, facial hair can be a huge obstacle in their transition. It can be difficult to hide a beard and can keep them from feeling fully female. Therefore, having body and facial hair removed can be crucial for trans women who want to express and accept their gender identity.

Fortunately, there are several options available today for permanent facial and body hair removal. One of the most reliable methods is electrolysis. This procedure uses a needle/probe that is inserted into the hair follicle and then delivers a current of electricity to destroy the hair root. Although it can be a lengthy process, electrolysis offers permanent results and can be used on virtually any type of hair and skin.

For electrolysis to be effective only one thing has to be done: killing the stem cells responsible for hair growth. These are located in an area called the Bulge in the upper part of the follicle.

In general, it is important to remember that each person is different and that the choice of hair removal method depends on individual needs and preferences. For women, especially trans women, having facial hair removed can be an essential step in their journey toward self-acceptance and gender expression. It is a way to feel more comfortable and confident in their own bodies and to express themselves as they truly feel.

How many electrolysis treatments do I need?

It is important to understand that our hair goes through a cycle of growth, transition and rest known as the hair growth cycle. This cycle consists of three distinct phases: the anagen, catagen and telogen phases. To explain these phases:

• Anagen phase: This is the phase when the hair is actively growing, and the follicle is fully developed. This phase can range from a few months to several years, depending on the location of the hair and genetic factors.
• Catagen phase: This is the transitional phase when hair growth stops, and the hair follicle begins to shrink. This phase usually lasts several weeks.
• Telogen phase: This is the resting phase where the hair has completely stopped growing and the hair follicle is inactive. After several weeks, the hair will fall out and the cycle begins again with the anagen phase.

Anagen phase, catagen phase en telogen phase 

During electrolysis treatment, only the hair that is in the anagen phase can be effectively treated and permanently removed. This is because only in this phase is the hair follicle fully developed and the electric current can effectively destroy the hair root. Hairs that are in the catagen or telogen phase are not fully developed and cannot be treated effectively.

Since only part of the hair is in the anagen phase at any given time, multiple electrolysis treatments are required to treat all hair follicles in the anagen phase. The number of treatments needed may vary depending on individual needs and the location of the hair, but on average, about 8-12 treatments are needed to remove all the hair in each area.

In short, multiple treatments are necessary with electrolysis because not all hairs are in the anagen phase at the same time and only hairs in this phase can be effectively treated and permanently removed. It is important to consult a professional and experienced electrolysis specialist to create an individual treatment plan that meets your specific needs.

The risks

In general, there are no permanent side effects associated with electrolysis hair removal. The risk of electrolysis hair removal includes epidermal damage and damage to epidermal melanin. Epidermal injury can lead to scarring, and damage to epidermal melanin can result in hypopigmentation. If the damage to the underlying tissue is significant, pitting may also occur.

Finding an electrologist with extensive experience is key to minimizing the risk of side effects.

Am I a suitable candidate for hair removal?

Anyone with unwanted facial or body hair is a good candidate for electrolysis. Electrolysis is truly for everyone.

Electrolysis (as opposed to laser hair removal) works for:

• every skin type;
• every hair color;
• every part of the body.

The only individuals advised against undergoing electrolysis are those with active skin inflammation.

Anatomy of the skin.

How long should I wait between sessions?

You can choose between a quick course of 4 weeks between sessions (but this will involve fewer hairs treated per session). Our electrologists recommend a course with 6 weeks between each treatment for the best balance of overall time and cost efficiency.

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Team

At Face2Face Clinic, electrolysis treatments are performed by 2 talented beauticians who are passionate about their jobs.

How many electrolysis treatments do I need?

It is important to understand that our hair goes through a cycle of growth, transition and rest known as the hair growth cycle. This cycle consists of three distinct phases: the anagen, catagen and telogen phases. To explain these phases:

• Anagen phase: This is the phase when the hair is actively growing, and the follicle is fully developed. This phase can range from a few months to several years, depending on the location of the hair and genetic factors.
• Catagen phase: This is the transitional phase when hair growth stops, and the hair follicle begins to shrink. This phase usually lasts several weeks.
• Telogen phase: This is the resting phase where the hair has completely stopped growing and the hair follicle is inactive. After several weeks, the hair will fall out and the cycle begins again with the anagen phase.

During electrolysis treatment, only the hair that is in the anagen phase can be effectively treated and permanently removed. This is because only in this phase is the hair follicle fully developed and the electric current can effectively destroy the hair root. Hairs that are in the catagen or telogen phase are not fully developed and cannot be treated effectively.

Since only part of the hair is in the anagen phase at any given time, multiple electrolysis treatments are required to treat all hair follicles in the anagen phase. The number of treatments needed may vary depending on individual needs and the location of the hair, but on average, about 8-12 treatments are needed to remove all the hair in each area.

In short, multiple treatments are necessary with electrolysis because not all hairs are in the anagen phase at the same time and only hairs in this phase can be effectively treated and permanently removed. It is important to consult a professional and experienced electrolysis specialist to create an individual treatment plan that meets your specific needs.

Result after 1 electrolysis treatment

Behind the scenes

Watch our electrolysis video at the link below.

Watch our video

Contact us

Our patient coordinator, Joa Christiaenssen, is ready to answer your questions and provide you with the necessary information. Whether it's scheduling a consultation, discussing treatment options, arranging administrative matters, or planning a surgery, Joa is here to assist you.

We strive to offer you the best possible care and service, and we look forward to supporting you on your journey towards positive change.