How Much Does Electrolysis Cost?

Body hair. We’ve all got it. Some of us love it, and others don’t.

So how to get rid of the annoying, unwanted, superfluous stuff on a permanent basis? Well, a few rounds of electrolysis might be just the thing you need! But what exactly is it? And how does it work? Is it really permanent? And how much does electrolysis cost? 

Let’s find the answers to all of these questions and more, as we explore the ins and outs of electrolysis for the permanent removal of those most annoying hairs. 

What Exactly is Electrolysis?

In a nutshell, electrolysis is the name of the process of removing unwanted hair by destroying the hair root with an electrical current.

During treatments, a tiny probe (think super thin needle) the same size as the hair strand is inserted into the hair follicle. Then a low voltage of warm yet safe electrical current is switched on that cauterizes the papillae. That’s the part of the hair root that nourishes hair and encourages growth. This damage then stops the hair from growing any further. 

Are There Different Types of Electrolysis?

Yes, there are. In fact, there are three different types of electrolysis. Galvanic, thermolysis, and blend. 

How Do They Work?

Let’s take a closer look at what these three entail, and how they work and differ from each other. 

Galvanic

Galvanic is the original electrolysis form. It uses a current that continuously jumps from one pole to the other in a circular motion. This direct use of the current creates a chemical change within the hair follicle it’s been inserted into. It cauterizes the root of the hair. Super effective but a very slow and arduous process.

However, it’s amazing for small areas or very stubborn hairs like unwanted facial hair, underarms, nipple, stomach, or bikini line hairs.

Thermolysis

Also known as ‘High Frequency’ (HF), ‘Radio Frequency, and ‘Short Wave Diathermy.’ Thermolysis electrolysis uses a shortwave radio frequency or AC current that oscillates back and forth between the poles at up to 30 million cycles per second!

It works by stimulating the water molecules in your hair follicle to rapidly vibrate and heat up. This stimulation and excess heat then damages the root of the hair and stops it from growing back.  

Blend

Just as its name suggests, blend electrolysis is a combination of galvanic and thermolysis electrolysis. Different hairs are more susceptible to one type of treatment than the other. So, to ensure each hair in the area being treated has been sufficiently cauterized, the use of both techniques works well. Galvanic for its efficiency and thermolysis for the heat it produces. This creates a surefire way to get amazing, permanent results.  

How Do I Know What’s Best For Me?

Your licensed Electrologist is a professional and will be able to recommend which type of treatment is best for you and your hair type. Every single person is different, so when you book a consultation, you will be given an individualized, personally tailored evaluation. 

Is Electrolysis Safe?

Yes, electrolysis is safe. In fact, it is so safe that it is the only F.D.A.-approved permanent hair removal treatment. Also, unlike laser and other types of hair removal treatments, it is safe to use on all types of skin tones and hair types and colors.

However, electrolysis should only be practiced by a professional in the medical community. So make sure the clinic you choose to go with has a fully licensed Electrologist.

Is Electrolysis Permanent?

Thankfully, yes, it is. However, it is not a one-and-done type of treatment.

Let me explain…

As all of our hairs have a 3 stage growth cycle, you will need to go for several treatments to catch the hair growth in each of its cycles. And each individual hair will be on its own little cycle. So the area treated has hair at all different stages of cycles at all times!

The good news, though, is that after each treatment, the hair starting its new growth cycle will be visibly thinner, lighter, and less coarse than the one that came before. 

How many sessions are needed?

This is going to differ for each individual, but the general rule is around 8 – 12 sessions for each area treated. 

How often do I need to be treated? 

Again, this will be different for each client. But usually, you will need to receive treatments each week, or every second week until the hair follicle stops producing new hairs for each growth cycle.

Ok, on to the million-dollar question…

What Is The Cost Per Session for Electrolysis?

The price of electrolysis can vary greatly. However, treatments are usually charged on an hourly basis. So, much depends on the area getting treated and the type and amount of hair you are looking to get rid of.

Obviously, your demographic also plays a big role in the cost of this. Therefore, you can be looking at anywhere between $60 – $250 per hour and up. 

But it’s not that simple…

Some Electrologists might charge $1 per minute, while others $3 per minute and then others $5 or more per minute. It all comes down to their practice, experience, and abilities.

Plus, there are extras you can add on, which will increase the cost. For example, you might decide to upgrade the disposable needle used from a regular steel one to a gold-plated needle for extra comfort and effectiveness. 

And don’t forget, for this treatment to be fully effective, you will need to go for several treatments, as mentioned, around 8 – 12, depending on the hair’s stubbornness and growth cycles. So, this can add up if you need more sessions than you originally planned for.

Is Electrolysis Painful?

Pain differs between us all, and reported sensations for electrolysis treatments have been likened to ‘mosquito bites’ and ‘sea flea bites.’ 

As we learned earlier, the way electrolysis is administered is with a current entering your hair follicle through a needle. So there is definitely going to be a prickling or stinging sensation being felt as a direct result of this. Some people will be more sensitive to it than others.

Where Is Electrolysis Most Effective?

Electrolysis is very effective on most parts of the body. Although, depending if you are male or female, it is more popular in different areas.

So starting with the ladies…

For women, some of the most effective places to treat with electrolysis include facial areas like eyebrows, cheeks, upper lip, chin, neck, jawline, and the hairline. Your entire bikini area is also very popular for treatment. As are the underarms, arms, legs, hands, and feet. Even places like your chest or abdomen if you have some hair growth there that you would like removed. 

Meanwhile…

For men, some of the more popular areas include ears and nose hair, as well as the face and hairline, eyebrows, and the neck. It’s also extremely popular for use on the shoulders, chest, and back areas. Finally, electrolysis is a great way to treat razor burns and ingrown beard hair. 

Can I Use Electrolysis Regardless of My Skin Tone or Hair Colour?

Absolutely!

This is the big difference between laser treatments and electrolysis. Electrolysis permanently destroys the growth cells and cycles directly in the hair follicle. So it doesn’t matter the tone or texture of your hair and skin.

However, laser only really works on light skin and dark-colored hairs.  

By now…

We hope I’ve answered your question about how much does electrolysis cost to your satisfaction. And before I wrap up, we want to tell you that we love researching, analyzing, and reporting to our users on…

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Final Thoughts

Electrolysis is a fairly pain-free way to permanently remove stubborn or unsightly hairs. It works amazingly on all hair types and colors, including black, brown, red, blonde, grey, and white.

You will need to have a fair bit of time on your hands to attend regular weekly or bi-weekly appointments to complete the course of treatments. And this, in turn, may start to get a bit costly for some. 

However, after you have completed your treatments, your hair will never grow back. So you won’t have to worry about any more unsightly hair or paying for another hair removal service again!

Happy hair removal!