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There’s shaving, waxing, tweezing, epilating, waxing, hair removal creams, etc.

Enter: Electrolysis hair removal.

woman touching her legs

Bisual Studio/Stocksy

Electrolysis yields permanent results, but it’s important to note that it takes time.

Hair grows in different stages: growing, resting and shedding.

“It’s primarily effective on [people with] darker hair and lighter skin,” she adds.

How Long Does an Electrolysis Session Last?

However, Dr. Henry says there are general approximations you’re free to take into account.

Medium Area: “Such as thebikini lineor underarms, could take around 30 to 60 minutes.”

Large Area: “Treating larger regions like the legs or back may require one to two hours.”

Does Electrolysis Hurt?

Everyone has their own tolerance to pain.

Electrolysis has been likened to a stinging and pricking sensation, and each follicle has to go through it.

“You’ll probably feel a momentary heat sensation or pinch,” says Thurman.

“Discomfort is minimal for most people, but individual tolerances vary greatly.

Keep in mind that some areas of the body are much less sensitive than others.

Many people read, listen to music, or even take a nap while being treated.”

“Generally, a large city is going to have higher rates than a small town.

Overall, electrolysis cost compares very favorably to other hair removal methods, including laser.”

To help prevent irritation, refrain from washing the treated area for at least 24 hours after electrolysis.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to hair removal.

Updated January 5, 2021.

Electrologists Association of New Jersey.FAQs.

Richards RN, Meharg GE.Electrolysis: observations from 13 years and 140,000 hours of experience.J Am Acad Dermatol.

1995;33(4):662-666.