Is DIY Electrolysis Safe and Effective?

Unwanted hair can be very cumbersome and time consuming as many people spend exorbitant amounts of time, energy, and money removing unwanted hair. Although the most common methods for removing unwanted hair are shaving and waxing, these methods are only temporary. If you are looking for a long term solution for removing unwanted hair electrolysis is a great option. Electrolysis works by disrupting hair growth at the follicles.

It is usually performed by a licensed dermatologist or professional. However, there many people who are opting to do electrolysis at home. But, is DIY electrolysis hair removal safe and effective? Here, we will explain everything you need to know about at home electrolysis. 

What is electrolysis?

In general electrolysis is defined as the chemical decomposition produced by passing a current through a liquid or solution containing ions. From high school chemistry, like when using a DIY electrolysis tank to remove rust, the basic principles are the same.

The most common set up for an electrolysis tank involves a storage container sturdy enough to be capable of holding eight or more gallons of water. You’ll also need a car battery charger. You also need a metal conductor such as iron or stainless steel, that will serve as a "sacrificial anode" to which the electrical current can pass through.

An electrolyte is also required, which makes it more conductive so the current will flow more readily through it. The current then travels through the solution and in the process can de-rust items or even destroy hair follicles.

For hair removal, electrolysis is one of the FDA approved methods for permanent hair removal. Electrolysis for hair removal works by disrupting the hair follicles. This not only damages your hair follicles and prevents growth and causes existing hairs to fall out.

Multiple follow up treatment are usually needed and several treatments may be required .

This procedure is approved by the FDA and has been determined as a safe and permanent method to remove unwanted hair. 

Electrolysis is extremely versatile. It can be used on every part of the body including eyebrows, face, arms, legs, and the very sensitive bikini area with minimal adverse side effects.

The most common side effect is redness and skin irritation at the treatment site but typically is very temporary. Electrolysis can be very expensive and the cost typically depends of the area that you wish to treat and how many treatment rounds are needed. Because of the price, so people are opting for a DIY electrolysis kit at home.

Is DIY electrolysis safe for hair removal?

To assess the safety of a DIY electrolysis, you first need to understand how a DIY electrolysis setup works. The process starts by inserting a probe into the follicle alongside the hair without piercing the skin.

An electrical current then passes through the skin creating a chemical reaction with an aqueous medium that is found directly under the skin.

The mixture of water and salt found in the hair follicle is then transformed into sodium hydroxide, which is a corrosive alkali - a very basic solution. This alkali dissolves the hair root, so it never grows back and is permanently removed. 

It is always best to choose a professional electrolysis expert to perform the treatment. Not only are they trained to evaluate and treat each case on an individual basis, they use the best and sterile equipment.

Side effects are minimal but can include pain and discomfort at the treatment site, redness and skin irritation. It usually subsides in a couple days and over the counter medication is often enough to manage the pain,

The major downside is that is can be very costly especially if the area is a larger one. Larger areas will also require several treatment sessions. If you are not willing to pay the average rate, you can opt for a DIY at home treatment. There are several at home electrolysis kits and devices on the market and here is what you need to know about their safety and efficacy.

Considerations when choosing to DIY

If you choose a DIY electrolysis machine, there are several considerations that you need to know before purchasing.