TransGenderCare.com : Electrolysis Guide : Treatment Methods

Unproven [permanent] hair removal methods may be thought of as the methods that convey the notion of permanence (or are marketed as permanent), but do not have any consistent, measurable or repeatable degree of permanence using controlled scientific measure.

Transdermal electrolysis is a no needle method of treatment purported to achieve permanent hair removal results. The usage, transdermal, indicates through or by way of the skin.

The theory behind this [unproven] method is the transmission of electrical current that is delivered through the skin, where it is directed to the site of the hair follicle. In practice, an applicator covered with electroconductive jelly is placed in contact with the skin, and direct electrical current is applied. The destruction of hair follicles that is claimed is said to be brought about by galvanic action (units of lye created).

The transdermal process of targeting hair producing cells with direct electrical current suggests that these cells would remain unaffected, as current would travel through the path of least resistance. It is highly unlikely that any unbiased analysis would conclude this method produces permanent hair removal.

As with transdermal electrolysis, no-needle tweezers electrolysis attempts to achieve permanence without direct contact with the cells that produce hair growth.

While needle-based electrolysis methods allow for contact between the conductor (needle) and follicle, no needle methods claim that transmission of current can be achieved by using the unwanted hair as a conductor. In practice, the hair shaft is grasped with tweezers that conduct a galvanic (direct) current. The current passes through the tweezers in an attempt to transmit treatment energy down to the base of the follicle via the hair shaft.

This method, as is the case with transdermal electrolysis, does not provide permanence.

If one does consider the use of either of these methods, great caution should accompany their use. In addition to any delays brought about in the overall transition process, a significant cost may be involved.

Electronic tweezers or electrolysis tweezers are usually marketed directly to the consumer. A variety of tweezers units are made available through mail order and magazines with a cost of $50 to $200. Unfortunately, pharmacy chains sometimes carry these products as well. Presenting these products in a trusted environment such as a pharmacy, coupled with a minimal cost, does a disservice to the consumer by falsely connoting an effective method.

Transdermal units are typically sold to the cosmetology, spa, and beauty trade, although there have been instances of direct sales to the transgender consumer (transgender publications, testimonial-based marketing). Units range in cost from several hundred to several thousand dollars. When used in a salon setting, transdermal electrolysis is normally offered as one of many services, and is typically operated by those with little or no training in permanent hair removal techniques. Charges for the services are comparable to normal needle type electrolysis services. Transdermal techniques are typically marketed as a safe from scarring/complications, pain free alternative to traditional electrolysis. While the method of transmitting electrolysis current (through skin contact) renders these machines incapable of producing permanent results, the unit's circuitry may contain a viable electrolysis epilator at its core.

Laser hair removal

Laser hair removal has the potential to provide permanent diminishment of finer, shallowly rooted hair. Over the last few years, its clinical usage has risen dramatically (see chart) compared to other nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. Currently, the overall technology does not provide a viable method for thick, coarse hair such as that found in the beard. But while laser technology is not currently an effective method of permanent beard removal, it should be considered as an alternative to electrolysis for those individuals who have some sparse, shallow (preferably dark colored) hair growth remaining. Since the risk factors for laser procedures are greater than needle type electrolysis, we recommend these procedures be performed by a physician.

Microwave hair removal

As the hair removal industry continues to grow, other devices are in the planning, proposal, or clinical trial stages of development. One such modality involves microwave hair removal. This method involves directing microwave energy to the hair follicle, along with coolant to protect surrounding tissue. At this early stage, the clinical significance of microwave technology is yet to be seen.