Home electrolysis
Introduction
First off: I don't recommend attempting home electrolysis.
Second: Most home hair removal systems have no proof of permanent
results they claim. You must use a unit
where you insert a probe into the follicle if you want permanent
results.
Description
It's a small device with a stylet that looks like a mechanical
pencil. One end has the retractable probe like the one on a
professional electrolysis machine, and the other end is connected by
a cord to a 9-volt battery on the main unit. There is a metal band
around the stylet at the place where you hold it like a pencil
during the treatment. The probe is on a spring so you can't insert
it too deep and puncture the skin. When the probe touches the
moisture of the papilla, the circuit is completed and the unit makes
a 5-second tone. You hold the probe in place another 15 seconds for
the galvanic current to work, then try to remove the hair with
tweezers. If it doesn't give, try again, but don't try the same hair
more than twice. The unit has an adjustable "comfort control" (a
euphemism if I've ever heard one!) for high power.
Advantages:
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You can save money.
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You can do it in privacy.
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You can treat yourself when it's convenient.
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It's an option for those who cannot find or travel to a
competent electrologist.
Drawbacks:
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Many have attempted to do their own electrolysis. Many failed.
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It takes a large time commitment and real dedication.
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You have no training.
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You could cause permanent skin damage.
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You may may not get permanent results due to improper
technique.
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Temporary side effects such as redness and swelling may be
worse and last longer than with professional treatment.
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Some find it more painful than professional electrolysis.
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It may take much longer to treat your own face than to have it
done professionally.
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When you factor in what your time is worth and additional
supplies, it may be more expensive than getting it done
professionally.
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Some areas are difficult to see/treat by yourself, especially
using your non-dominant hand or areas requiring a mirror.
-
The more hair you have, the more work and less your chances for
success.
My recommendation: Don't try this at home
I feel the potential drawbacks outweigh the benefits, so I do not
personally recommend attempting to do it yourself.
From an FDA hair removal overview published in July,
1996:
"The American Medical Association's Committee on Cutaneous
Health and Cosmetics... recommends limiting self-treatment to
readily accessible areas, such as the lower parts of the arms and
legs. Because working on facial hair requires use of a mirror,
and, therefore, reversed movements, this area is best done by a
professional."
The British Medical Association recommends avoiding them
altogether, as do many medical professionals (for example, see Caldwell,
1972).
Here's my own experience: I found it excruciating on the
machine's lowest setting of 1, and I can take full-blast
professional electrolysis with just a couple of Advil. Plus, the few
hairs I treated left me with angry raised red bumps worse than any I
ever got at regular electrolysis. Plus, the time it took to do just
a few hairs made it seem like an impossible task. When I bought
mine, the cashier told me they were very hard to use and that they
get a lot of returns, so save my receipt. I can see why. There are
people who cut their own hair, change their own oil, do their own
plumbing, etc. Not me. I decided this was another thing I'd rather
not deal with, and just had it done professionally. For the best
chance of getting permanent results, I recommend a professional
electrologist recommended by someone who is done and happy.
If you decide it's right for you
I have compiled information on where you can buy a home
electrolysis kit and some tips to increase your chances of
success.
Purchasing
information
Tips
for better chances of success
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