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Hairchick.com - Home Electrolysis
A number of companies sell home electrolysis machines, claiming to get rid of hairs permanently. Do they work? Hairchick's guide tells all!
Since many women have become big fans of electrolysis - a professional procedure that gets rid of hairs permanently - a number of companies have started to sell home electrolysis machines. These machines, claim their manufacturers, achieve the same permanent results as the salon procedure at a fraction of the price.
Yes. The good news is that these machines will get rid of hairs, but permanent hair removal is not so certain with these products. These machines use lower voltages than machines used in spas, and therefore it is more likely that hairs will survive and simply grow back. Many professionals do not recommend using these machines. Home electrolysis machines are actually quite different from the electrolysis machines used by professionals.
Home electrolysis hair removal kits consist of cotton swabs, a machine, and an electricity-conducting gel, or a "pencil"-like machine. Basically, these devices have retractable metal probes (that have a spring so you don't jab yourself with the probe). When the probe reaches the moisture inside the hair follicle, the machine makes a noise, signaling that the electric current is being sent. You then hold the machine in place for the required length of time (this varies from 10 seconds to about 20 seconds, depending on the machine you are using). Then, you try to pull the hair out with tweezers. If the hair does not come out, you can try the whole process again, although you can only try to remove a hair twice.
The main problem with this technique is that, at heart, electrolysis is a system that is intended for use by professionals. It is often painful and severe redness and even skin damage is possible from home electrolysis. They are not especially convenient, since it may take awhile to get rid of hairs over a larger area. In fact, home electrolysis often takes far more time than electrolysis at a salon; some women find they have to go over virtually every hair more than once.
If you are curious, Hairchick suggests asking friends for a recommendation of a good machine. When you buy your machine, try to buy it at a store with a good return policy and keep your receipt. These machines tend to be returned - a lot. Read the directions carefully. Use it only on areas that you can reach easily, such as your upper lip or your shins. This is probably best for those who live in areas far from reliable salons and have time to spare. Since Home Electrolysis can be time consuming, stack your favorite music CD's into your stereo, turn up the volume and then get volting!