Understanding Electrolysis
History
Electrolysis has been used for permanent hair removal since 1875, when Dr. Charles Michel, an ophthalmologist from St. Louis, Missouri, first used a fine needle and a small electric current to treat ingrown hairs. Over 150 years later, modern variants of this technique — including thermolysis and blend (a combination of electrolysis and thermolysis) — remain the only modalities approved by the FDA for permanent hair removal. Each offers unmatched precision and effectiveness for the treatment of unwanted hair.
How it Works
Each hair is treated individually using a fine, sterile probe that is gently inserted into the natural opening of the follicle. Once in place, a controlled amount of energy is delivered to the base of the follicle, creating a thermal (thermolysis) and/or chemical (electrolysis) reaction that eliminates the cells responsible for hair growth.
Over time, this process leads to the permanent removal of the treated hairs. At Alta Electrology, techniques are selected thoughtfully and tailored to the needs of each client.
Who It’s For
Because each follicle is precisely targeted, electrolysis can treat individual hairs almost anywhere on the body — regardless of skin tone, hair color, or texture. Whether you're seeking full clearance or refining a specific area, it offers the flexibility and control to achieve results that align with your goals.
Clients choose electrolysis for many reasons, but often share one thing in common: they’re searching for a definitive solution to remove bothersome hair.
| Electrolysis | Laser Hair Removal | |
|---|---|---|
| FDA Approval | ✔ Yes — permanent hair removal | ✘ No — hair reduction only |
| Works on All Hair Colors | ✔ Yes | ✘ No — ineffective on light/gray hairs |
| Works on All Skin Tones | ✔ Yes | ⚠ May not be safe for deeper tones |
| Treatment Method | Treats each follicle individually | Targets pigment in multiple follicles |
| Permanence | ✔ Permanent | ⚠ Temporary reduction (maintenance needed) |
| Treatment Time | Longer overall process, more sessions | Fewer sessions, including large areas |
| Best For | All skin/hair types seeking permanent results | Light skin with dark hair for temporary results |
| Risks | Mild redness, swelling, or pigmentation changes (typically temporary) | Up to 3% risk of paradoxical hypertrichosis (stimulated hair growth), pigment changes, burns |
Electrolysis vs Laser Hair Removal
While both electrolysis and laser hair removal aim to reduce or eliminate unwanted hair, only electrolysis provides permanent results. Laser works by targeting pigment in the hair shaft, which requires a strong contrast between dark hair and light skin to be effective. However, laser can be more efficient for treating large areas quickly — especially for the right candidates.
Risks are generally low with both methods, but laser treatment carries a small risk of paradoxical hypertrichosis — increased hair growth in or near the treated area.
What to Expect
Electrolysis delivers lasting results, but it works gradually — targeting individual hairs as they move through their natural growth cycles. Visible progress builds with each session, and your first visit marks the beginning of a personalized approach designed around you.
During that visit, we’ll talk through your goals, assess your skin and hair, and begin crafting a treatment plan that fits your needs, pace, and preferences. Achieving full clearance requires multiple treatments — often scheduled weekly or biweekly over the course of several months.
You’ll also have the chance to experience the process firsthand. Many clients describe the sensation as a brief pinch or gentle warmth. Your comfort is always a priority — we’ll go at your pace, and I’ll guide you through each step of the process.