Is Electrolysis successful for those suffering from PCOS and Hirsutism?
Sharon Reid British Institute & Association of Electrolysis (BIAE) Chairperson responds to an article in the Consulting Rooms magazine on PCOS and Hirsutism and information relating to the efficacy of Electrolysis.
A BIAE member had brought this article to our attention as they felt the information published was questionable, and they wanted clarification as to whether Electrolysis could be a successful treatment for those suffering from PCOS and Hirsutism
What is Electrolysis?
It is the only proven method of permanent hair removal and has, for over 100 years, been recognised as a safe and reliable method for treating all skin and hair types. Electrolysis permanently treats any hair type, any hair colour and anywhere on the face or body. Electrolysis is incredibly successful in treating hair caused by any number of hormonal imbalances causing Hirsutism, including PCOS.
How does Electrolysis work?
A fine, sterile, disposable probe (the same diameter of the hair) is inserted into the follicle opening made apparent by the hair on the skins surface. A tiny amount of energy is skilfully applied using either heat (with Thermolysis), or a chemical reaction (with Galvanic), or a combination of both (the Blend). These are known as ‘modalities’. The levels of intensity and the timings have been carefully selected in their application to fully treat the follicle and destroy all potential of growth. The probe is removed, and the hair is gently lifted from the follicle without pulling or plucking. The PSU (pilosebaceous unit) has been successfully deactivated. The skin, post treatment, may show evidence such as red marks (petechiae), minor scabbing and or PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation), these are temporary.
Can Electrolysis treat hairs in any stage of growth?
Yes, if there is hair on the skins surface. Electrolysis is successful on hairs in any stage of their growth cycle, for example Anagen (active growth) or Telogen (resting). Electrolysis will target the cells in the bulge, the dermal papilla, and the cells in the sheaths of the follicle responsible for hair growth. A single treatment by a skilled practitioner is all that is required to eradicate the potential of growth in hair follicles.
Can Electrolysis treat curly follicles permanently?
Yes. For curly follicles, the energy levels are carefully chosen and the timing of the treatment per hair enables just the right amount of energy to completely envelop even the curliest of follicles and the most tenacious due to hormonal imbalances. Many practitioners choose the ‘Blend’ modality when treating these curly follicles. There are various options available to the skilled practitioner to treat any hair – one size does not fit all – Electrolysis is a bespoke treatment and tailored to the needs of the individual.
Does Electrolysis hurt?
The main sensation felt is heat and a gentle stretch and/or pressure from the practitioner on the part of the face or body being treated. The sensation varies between individuals and is subjective though many find it manageable. Electrolysis machines and the technology have advanced where the speed and efficacy mean a more comfortable sensation and treatment.
Whilst we (as Electrologists) cannot stop the ongoing hormonal imbalances faced by PCOS sufferers, we can stop the physically embarrassing and debilitating problem that is excessive unwanted hair on the face and body, and help give these individuals confidence and encouragement.
I am the Chairperson of the BIAE and have successfully treated PCOS sufferers and many other Hirsute men and women since 1990. The BIAE is a non-profit organisation for members and for the public. We provide impartial advice and answer many queries relating to hair removal. For our members we are a support network, we provide courses to upskill, seminars for CPD (Continued Professional Development) and comprehensive insurance for hair removal and remedial Electrolysis for skin blemishes. A level of skill, knowledge and practical experience is required before you sit the theoretical and practical assessments to attain the membership.
To conclude: Electrolysis is successful on blonde, red, black, brown, curly, kinky, or straight hair. Treatment is successful on thick, tenacious, fine, or medium sized hairs. Electrolysis is successful on toes, legs, genitals, the torso, breasts, nipples, arms, fingers, nose, ears, eyebrows, ingrown eyelashes, forehead, hairline/scalp hair and hair transplanted hair follicles. PCOS sufferers and anyone suffering from excessive unwanted hair can be permanently hair free with Electrolysis because it is the only proven method to date for permanent hair removal.