Electrolysis hair treatment has been around for more than 100 years, and it is the safest and most reliable technique for the permanent removal of unwanted hair. It involves destroying the hair root using an electric current to inhibit further hair growth.
However, despite the process being FDA-approved, patients may experience potential side effects. Most side effects are normal and temporary, but there are instances where patients have been puzzled by the aftermath of receiving electrolysis treatments.
Normal Side Effects of Electrolysis Treatment
Pain and Swelling
Electrolysis hair treatment is a long and tedious process involving the repeated use of needles. Therefore, you’re likely to experience pain during and after the treatment. The amount of pain felt varies from patient to patient.
Depending on how much work was done on your skin, swelling can also be noticed. Swelling is influenced by the body area where hair removal was conducted. For instance, the upper lip is prone to swelling as it is not attached to a bone. Swelling should dissolve in a few days. According to Chi Udeorji, Founder of Bad Betty Electrolysis in Los Angeles, aloe gel and a cold compress will help, and high frequency home devices and accelerate healing.
Abnormal Side Effects of Electrolysis Treatment
Despite electrolysis being a safe hair treatment process, some patients have recorded abnormal side effects after treatment. Some of the rare side effects of electrolysis include:
Permanent Scarring
According to Chi Udeorji, Founder of Bad Betty Electrolysis in Los Angeles, electrolysis can cause scarring if done incorrectly. This is not an often occurrence, but scars may appear when one scratches the skin after treatment. This leads to the development of small wounds that later turn into scars. Scars can take approximately 6 to 12 months to be fully visible and can lead to damage to the skin.
Despite that, seeking electrolysis treatment from a substandard electrologist may lead to the development of scars. This is because some of them do not use up to par techniques, which may cause such abnormal side effects.
Permanent Hyperpigmentation
Excessive treatment on a particular skin area may lead to the destruction of collagen. It may also cause overproduction of melanin which deteriorates skin health. Such factors lead to skin hyperpigmentation from slightly pink to very dark.
Hyperpigmentation may seem to take longer to fade away, but it always fades away completely. It can take up to a year or more in some cases. To prevent skin discoloration, ensure your electrologist uses an insulated probe and ice to cool the skin immediately after treatment.
Conclusion
Growth of unwanted hair is normal in both genders, and electrolysis can help terminate further hair growth. Electrolysis hair treatment comes with some normal side effects such as pain, swelling, skin irritation, skin dryness, and red spots, particularly on the face. With quality electrolysis, side effects should always be temporary.
