If unwanted hair grows on your face, you probably dream of getting rid of it forever. You may have tried some treatments, including creams or laser hair removal, only to be disappointed with the temporary result. The only FDA-approved treatment for permanent hair removal is electrolysis, which uses short-wave radio frequencies to destroy hair follicles. Even with electrolysis, hair can reappear after a few years. If you are interested in trying this therapy, do your research and consult with various specialists, making sure to protect your skin before and after treatment.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Choose a Specialist
Step 1. Search the internet for specialists in your area
These professionals have undergone specific training to carry out the electrolysis procedure. Research the specialists in your area and compile a list of the most qualified. Try to start with at least three or four names.
- Look for specialists with at least five years of industry experience, with positive reviews on social media and professional looking websites.
- Many cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists practice the treatment in their practices, so you can start looking for those professionals.
- Ask friends and family for recommendations.
- Read reviews on the internet to get an idea of the operator's professional experience.
Step 2. Check the credentials of the specialists on your list
In many states, practitioners must have a license or certification to practice. If you live in a state where these requirements are necessary, make sure the license is in plain sight in the professional's office. If your state doesn't require a license, make sure the specialist has been certified by an accredited school.
- Even if a specialist is properly licensed, check if he is registered with a professional organization. This indicates his commitment to updating and continuing education in his field.
- Do not undergo treatment by uncertified personnel.
Step 3. Before making a decision, consult with various professionals
Write down any questions you have before the consultation and make sure you get comprehensive answers. Ask the operator if they use needle electrolysis, the only type approved by the proper authorities.
- You can ask questions about the length of the sessions, the number of sessions required and the costs. You can also ask what you will feel during the procedure and how long the clinic has been doing this treatment.
- Make sure you speak to the specialist about the result you hope to achieve. Show him where the hair you want to remove is, as this can affect the final treatment outcome.
Step 4. Ask about health procedures
Since electrolysis makes the skin vulnerable to infection, ask the specialist what measures the clinic uses to protect patients. Is the technician wearing gloves? Are the correct sterilization procedures used, such as disinfecting all equipment and using disposable needles for each patient?
Look around you when you are in the specialist's office. Ask yourself if the rooms seem clean and tidy. Do the technicians and staff appear to follow the health regulations? Check if the operator washes his hands before examining your skin. Above all, ask yourself if you feel comfortable. If the answer is no, try another clinic
Part 2 of 3: Preparing for Electrolysis
Step 1. Prepare for various sessions
Each treatment session can take a few minutes or even an hour, depending on the amount of follicles to be treated. However, electrolysis usually requires 10-12 treatments over the course of several months to achieve the desired results. You need to make appointments no less than 1-2 weeks apart so that the skin has time to heal.
Step 2. Do not shave or pluck facial hair for the three days preceding the treatment
The operator must be able to catch the hair with tweezers for the treatment to be effective. Avoid shaving or using tweezers before your appointment to prepare for the procedure.
Step 3. Drink eight glasses of water the day before your appointment
It is more difficult to treat dehydrated skin with electrolysis, so make sure you drink at least 2 liters of water the day before the procedure. Moisturized skin also heals faster, so keep drinking a lot even after the treatment.
Avoid caffeinated drinks on the day of your appointment, as they can increase skin sensitivity
Step 4. Wash your face with a mild cleanser before treatment
Electrolysis can make your skin vulnerable to infection during your recovery, so it's important to wash your face well before the procedure. Use a mild cleanser and a light moisturizer.
Avoid irritating cosmetics before electrolysis. Chemical peels, waxes, and other facial treatments can make the skin more sensitive. This can cause an unpleasant reaction to electrolysis, so avoid those practices for at least a week before a session. Since appointments are at 7-15 day intervals, wait for the entire therapy to finish before resuming skin treatments
Step 5. Take deep breaths and listen to music to stay calm
To stay calm during the procedure, breathe deeply and focus on the results you hope to achieve. You can also put on headphones and listen to your favorite tunes.
During the procedure, the operator will insert a very fine needle into the hair root, then remove it with tweezers. This treatment takes about 15 seconds per follicle. The technician may apply topical anesthetic cream to you, or you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever before your appointment if you are concerned about pain
Part 3 of 3: Caring for the Skin After Treatment
Step 1. Moisturize your skin after sessions
The best way to treat your skin after electrolysis is to act as if you have had mild sunstroke. Use a light cream to make sure you moisturize your skin well. This will help you heal faster, avoid scabs and relieve discomfort.
Step 2. Do not touch or scratch the skin after the treatment
Electrolysis leaves the follicles exposed for some time after therapy. Touching or scratching your face can transfer bacteria to vulnerable skin, causing breakouts and infections. Try not to touch your face for the two days following the treatment. If you have to do it, wash your hands.
If scabs form, let them come off naturally. Removing them prematurely can lead to scar formation
Step 3. Do not wear makeup for the two days following the electrolysis
If makeup gets into the follicle while it's healing, it could irritate it and even cause an infection. You can use translucent powder, but avoid all other cosmetics for a day or two so your skin can heal.
Step 4. Wear a hat and sunscreen 15 if you need to expose yourself to the sun's rays
Be sure to protect your face from UVA and UVB exposure after undergoing electrolysis. Sun exposure on recently treated skin can lead to a form of discoloration known as hyperpigmentation. You should always apply a cream with protection equal to or greater than 15 when you are in the sun, but particularly in the two days following the therapy.
Step 5. Avoid strenuous physical activity for a day or two
Sweating from electrolysis can cause skin irritation and blocked pores, which can lead to an infection. Do not go to the gym for a day or two after the treatment to ensure the best result.
