Electric epilation is a method of aesthetic medicine and a sustainable procedure for removing unwanted hair. Epilation uses the effectiveness of electric current to coagulate (obliterate) the hair directly at its point of origin.
Indications (areas of application)
Increased body hair in women and in men does not correspond to the common ideal of beauty and is often perceived as very burdensome.
- Women suffering from hirsutism have increased sexual, body and facial hair. These patients can be well helped with electric epilation.In addition, individual, ethnic or racial dispositions play a role in the expression of each type of hair.
- Men who suffer from gender identity disorder (transsexualism).
- People who suffer from increased hair in general.
Before treatment
Before the start of treatment should be an educational and counseling discussion between the doctor and the patient. The content of the conversation should be the goals, expectations and the possibilities of treatment, as well as side effects and risks.
The patient should shorten his hair only with a shave or scissors already six weeks before the treatment. Under no circumstances should hair be removed with wax or tweezers, as this would jeopardize the success of the treatment. During a medical history (taking of the patient’s medical history) and an explanatory talk, the treating therapist/doctor determines the hair type with a magnifying lamp.Anticoagulants (anticoagulant medications) such as acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) should be discontinued as far as possible 14 days before the treatment.
The procedure
In the course of electrical epilation, each hair follicle (hair root) is individually obliterated with high-frequency current. The intensity of the current is adjusted to the hair type and thickness.The epilation needle is inserted directly into each hair channel. It is a disposable needle that sits on a pin, which in turn is connected to the high-frequency device. The current pulse permanently destroys the hair root.The visible hairs that can be sclerosed by electrocoagulation are in the so-called anagen phase, the main growth phase. There are three phases of hair growth:
- Anagen phase – In the hair growth phase, 90% of the hair is located. This phase can last for 2-6 years.
- Catagen phase – In the transformation phase, the hair are about 14 days.
- Telogen phase – The resting period of the hair follicles lasts about 3-4 months, then the telogen hairs fall out.
Since not all hairs are constantly in the anagen phase, several sessions are necessary to ensure the success of treatment.The duration of treatment of individual sessions can range from 20 minutes (eg on the face) to 2 hours (eg on the legs). In total, treatment can take place over a period of one and a half years.
After treatment
After treatment, there may be redness and swelling, which regresses very quickly. In addition, small crusts may follow. The skin should not be exposed to sunlight.If it is sensitive skin, care measures are useful.
Benefits
Electric epilation is an effective procedure for the permanent removal of bothersome hair. The treatment can enhance both the patient’s well-being and self-confidence.
