Excess hair on the face and body can be removed a number of ways—shaving, tweezing, waxing, and chemical depilatory creams—all temporary methods, often with side effects such as skin irritation, ingrown hair, and folliculitis (infected hair follicles). The only proven, permanent method of hair removal is electrolysis. However, the safest way to permanently remove hair is with Thermolysis, a better form of electrolysis. Thermolysis is a simple procedure proven by clinical testing of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be the best way of eliminating unwanted hair without damaging the skin. It's safe to use on any type and color of skin and hair, unlike lasers, which require specific skin and hair criteria. Laser hair removal is not approved by the FDA for permanency.
The general public is more familiar with Electrolysis for permanent hair removal, but Thermolysis is a form of Electrolysis. There are many differences between the two, but the basic premise is the same—electrical current is introduced into the hair follicle. The two main differences are the types of current, and the conductor used to emit that current. Electrolysis uses direct current and a needle, which makes a caustic acid that fills the follicle and dissolves everything in the area. It takes three to ten seconds to treat each hair, and is very painful. Thermolysis uses alternating current and a probe that cauterize only the root portion of the hair. When a small pulse of current touches the moisture in the base of the hair follicle it makes heat (thermo) at thousandths of a second, so there is minimal discomfort. This process is much faster, and therefore creates less sensation to the patient.* More importantly there are no risks of marking or scarring the skin from this procedure. Thermolysis is effective on any location of the face and body for men and women of all ages and is safe and effective for any type or color of skin. Any type of hair can be treated, straight, wavy, curly, or kinky.
* Some people may be apprehensive to try permanent hair removal because they think it will be painful. While most people tolerate Thermolysis treatment very well, there are topical anesthetics available that minimize, and often eliminate sensitivity to these kinds of procedures.
