What's Electrolysis and How Can it Help Me?

Introduction to Electrolysis Treatment
Like a weed, it sprouts up and spreads out. It grows quickly, moving from your head to your back, down your legs, over your arms and even on your face. Hair can be beautiful, but when it creeps onto other body parts like your upper lip, chin and back, it can be more embarrassing than attractive. Hair growth is natural, but some people will grow more hair than others due to age, hormonal imbalance or other factors. From shaving to plucking, you can find several hair removal methods designed to help you remove unwanted hair. Unfortunately, these methods are only temporary; that hair will return before you know it, whether you like it or not.

If you're one hair away from an embarrassing situation, you may want to consider electrolysis. Electrolysis is a cosmetic procedure developed more than 100 years ago to treat people with ingrown eyelashes. However, electrolysis doesn't just remove the hair -- it destroys the hair follicle that produces the hair. A hair follicle destroyed by electrolysis will never produce a hair (or bother you) again.
Thanks to its destructive success, electrolysis is the only hair removal system considered permanent by the FDA and American Medical Association (AMA).
Electrolysis vs. Laser Hair Removal
Electrolysis and lasers are popular hair removal methods that can remove hair on most areas of the body. Though they have some similarities, these two methods come with different requirements & different results.
During electrolysis, a tiny needle is inserted into the skin. The needle is placed deep into an individual hair follicle that holds one hair. Then, a low-level electrical energy pulse is sent into the follicle to destroy it. The existing hair falls out, and the process is repeated hair by hair. Those who opt for electrolysis need to return for multiple treatments to destroy all the unwanted hair.
Unlike electrolysis, which uses electric energy to destroy follicles, laser hair removal employs pulsating light beams. The light is aimed at the hair follicle where it heats the melanin in the hair. When melanin is heated, it tends to burn; this causes the hair follicle to temporarily stop producing hair. However, laser hair removal doesn't work for lighter hair colors (blonde, grey etc.).
With either method, you risk inflammation, scarring and changes in pigmentation, so it's important to see a licensed or certified technician who is trained to perform these procedures and can ensure your safety.

Benefits of Electrolysis
Electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal system available; this is what sets it apart from all other procedures. A number of other benefits may also make electrolysis the ideal choice for you.
First, electrolysis is a fairly natural procedure. While other methods like creams may use chemicals, electrolysis works with the natural saline and water deep in the skin to destroy the hair follicle. In addition, laser hair removal can burn the skin, causing irritation, scarring and pain. There's no risk of burning with electrolysis, as light isn't used in the process.
Electrologists work with a patient’s pain threshold and the patient’s ability to promote healing. Progress and results vary in each individual. 
Finally, if your hair shafts are likely curved, this can make it tough to shave, wax or pluck. Removal of hair of this type often leads to ingrown hairs and further problems. With electrolysis, both the hair and the hair follicle are permanently destroyed. You don't have to worry about the directional growth of your hair -- electrolysis will destroy its root regardless of the direction of the hair growth.
There are some risks and problems associated with electrolysis, but a majority of these are temporary. If you're interested in electrolysis, you should weigh the benefits and risks to determine whether electrolysis works for you.

Problems Associated with Electrolysis
Electrolysis comes with a number of risks and potential problems. On the practical side, electrolysis is time-consuming; it requires a technician to destroy hairs one at a time. Though treatment sessions are typically short, your first treatment may only destroy 15 to 50 percent of your unwanted hair. It will take multiple treatments to eliminate all your unwanted hair. The process involves dedication and should be treated as a personal investment.
Though electrolysis doesn't involve outside chemicals or burning lights, it's associated with a number of other negative side effects. In some cases, you could feel some pain and discomfort during treatment. Your technician might apply a numbing cream to the skin an hour before treatment to help reduce that pain. Scarring and temporary inflammation can also occur, though it's unlikely.
An initial consultation and a medical history assessment with an Electrologist is the first step in deciding if you are a good candidate for electrolysis treatment. Patch-testing is always recommended before treatment begins.


Source: Discovery Fit & Health

Caring for Your Skin in the Summer

Summer is a time that brings thoughts of sunshine, beaches and relaxation.  Although this sounds so inviting, the reality is that for some it turns into sunburns,  hyperpigmentation, dehydrated skin and premature aging.   The damage caused from exposure to damaging sun rays can be minimized with the proper sunscreen. Remember, a tan is really an inflammatory response by your skin reflecting damage by the sun.   Although it is a mantra constantly repeated, sunblock is vital to the health of your skin, especially during the summer months.  Sunblock will protect you from skin cancer, hyperpigmentation and premature aging.

Sunburns can be prevented by being vigilant in your use of sunscreen and the amount of time you allow yourself to be exposed to the sun.  It is never a good idea to get your tan in one sitting.  Avoid being in the sun during the hours of 10 AM thru 4PM and apply a generous amount of sunscreen.  Don’t forget areas like your ears and feet.  Wear a wide brimmed hat and always keep yourself hydrated with water. 

Another issue with excessive sun exposure and summer heat is dehydrated skin and premature aging.  Drinking plenty of water and using the appropriate moisturizers and cleansers for your skin are of primary importance.  Chlorine in swimming pools, alcoholic beverages and high temperatures contribute to dryness and sensitivity in your skin. Using products with anti-oxidants such as Vitamin C or hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid will help keep your skin glowing better than a damaging tan.

Many people are afraid to exfoliate during the summer months for fear of making their skin sensitive to sun exposure.   Mild exfoliation allows healing products and serums to penetrate your skin.  Continue getting  facials that heal and hydrate.  It  is a perfect way to combat the effects of the sun and heat.  Consult with your skin care therapist  about your individual needs in keeping your skin healthy all year round.