Electrolysis on
Sun Damaged Skin
01
Electrolysis on Sun Damaged Skin
Electrolysis is the world’s only certified permanent source of unwanted hair removal. Recognized by the FDA, appreciated by millions, electrolysis occupies a vital role in the world of aesthetics. However, given the somewhat invasive nature of the treatment, some people may have concerns about how electrolysis will interact with their skin conditions. Electrolysis by Alison has the expertise to inform about possible interactions that may occur, such as when electrolysis is used on skin suffering from an overabundance of sun exposure.
Can I Get Electrolysis Treatment on Sun Damaged Skin?
In the interests of good skin care and avoiding hypo-pigmentation (discoloration of skin), it is strongly advised that you don’t combine overexposure to sun or UV light with electrolysis. If you have recently developed a tan, or if you use tanning booths, it is a good idea to wait for your skin to repair. If your skin is naturally dark, electrolysis will be fine for your skin: the issue with tanned or sun-damaged skin is the combination of the UV radiation damage and the effect of the electrolysis needle combining to distort the natural color of your skin.
In addition to avoiding tanning or sunburn prior to your electrolysis appointment, it’s important not to expose the treated area to the sun for at least 24 hours after treatment. Preferably, you will be able to keep the affected area out of the sun for at least 48 hours. All treated hair follicles will be slightly inflamed and more open than normal, meaning that the area that underwent electrolysis will be more vulnerable to bacteria and pathogens. If the area is going to be exposed to sunlight, it is more important than ever to protect the skin with high caliber sunscreen. A broad-spectrum sunscreen, one which provides protection from UVA and UVB rays is preferable. Under no circumstances should you expose the skin to a tanning lamp or infrared warming lamp for at least two and preferably three days.
Acne is the world’s most common skin condition. Around 70% of the global population suffer from acne during puberty, and for many the condition can persist into adulthood, or resurface during periods of stress, poor sleep, or hormonal changes. Many of the areas that commonly experience acne breakouts are also areas where people seek electrolysis treatment: the face, chest, back, neck, and shoulders. These areas have the highest concentrations of sebaceous glands, that produce the skin oil which acne-causing bacteria feed on. If you are experiencing unwanted facial hair in combination with acne, it is possible to reduce the prevalence of acne in an area simply by electrolizing the hair there: the disabling of the follicles in the area also stops the attached sebaceous glands from producing oil, starving out the bacteria. This process is called sebaceous gland ablation (SGA) and is most effective at treating severe cystic acne.
After electrolysis treatment, it is common for some temporary redness to manifest. This is a standard side effect and nothing to be concerned with. The important thing to remember is that rubbing, scratching, or picking at the affected area is to be avoided as much as possible. A small amount of scabbing is expected— this will prevent bacteria from finding its way into the open pores and further aggravating the inflammation.
Electrolysis on Acne
Electrolysis Treatment for Age Spots
Age spots, liver spots, sun spots— whatever you call them, they can be a real detriment to the appearance of your skin. Depending on the amount of sun damage your skin has undergone, they may manifest much sooner than in your 40s, when they typically begin to appear. These gray, brown, or black patches are limited mainly to the top layer of skin. Once you consult a physician to check that your age spots are not a sign of something more malign like skin cancer, you can have them removed by a electrologist. The procedure can greatly improve your skin tone and leave your skin looking and feeling much younger. If your skin is too sensitive for chemical peels, or you’ve tried other methods that you are dissatisfied with, electrolysis treatment could be exactly what you need.
After treatment, you’re likely to notice redness and swelling. Scabs will most likely form over the areas of treatment. It’s important to leave them to heal, which could take as long as two weeks. Your new, clearer, younger-looking skin is growing in underneath it. When it heals completely and the scab flakes away, the new skin will be somewhat discolored for a while until it settles back into its normal coloring. Don’t be alarmed.
Electrolysis’ Effect on Skin
When electrolysis is used for its original purpose (that is, permanent hair removal) there are a number of potential side effects in addition to the common redness. If your hair is unusually coarse, a higher-than-usual strength current might be required, which can cause blisters. Blisters can also occur in areas of sensitive skin, such as the upper lip or bikini line. It’s very important to leave the blisters alone and give them time to heal. If they get worse, you should seek the opinion of a dermatologist. If you use a home electrology kit, or go with the services of a less scrupulous electrologist, you run the risk of contracting a skin infection from contaminated equipment. Similarly, less skilled or amateur electrologists can potentially cause bruising by misdirecting the needle and piercing blood vessels. These two factors combined underline the importance of using disposable, sterilized needles for every treatment, despite the additional cost. The chance of infection entering the blood stream via an electrolysis needle is otherwise too high. Keloids (accumulations of keratin) can manifest as a skin reaction when some people undergo electrolysis. Demographics that are more prone to keloid formation should be cautious about pursuing electrolysis on highly visible areas first. They may want to experiment with electrolysis on other areas first, to check it is prudent to continue.
How to Minimize Electrolysis Side Effects
Electrolysis by Alison has over a decade and a half of experience helping women with facial and body hair problems. If you are struggling with your peach fuzz or more prominent hair and don’t know what to do, we can help. Hundreds of thousands of women in similar situations have gone through the same experience. Almost all of them noticed substantial improvements after just one or two sessions. Let us do the same for you. Our electrolysis clinic is conveniently located in West Los Angeles. It’s designed to be a soothing and pleasant space to help you relax during the process. In our serene surroundings you can take the next step towards beautification. To find out more about the process and arrange a free consultation, call us today. Our number is (323) 875-4425. We look forward to helping you with your beauty goals!
Post-Electrolysis
Application of ice immediately after treatment can soothe the skin, and reduce any swelling.
Avoid hot tubs, swimming pools, or fresh water swimming for 48 hours after your procedure.
Don’t touch the treated area with your hands. If you absolutely must, cleanse your hands first.
A mild antiseptic like witch hazel can help keep the skin clean if applied two or three times a day. If you are in a dusty environment or sweating more than normal, apply it more often.
Don’t use any heavy creams or topical acids on your skin for 48 hours after treatment. Be cautious with their use afterwards.
Before you work out or do another strenuous activity, consider using an antibiotic cream or aloe gel on the affected area.
Don’t manually exfoliate for 48 hours after treatment.
If you apply makeup to the affected area, make sure it’s fresh and hypoallergenic so as not to inflame or infect your skin.
Expert Electrolysis with Alison
When you’re looking for an electrologist that can handle your procedure with a minimum of side effects, you should look no further than Electrolysis by Alison. In business for over 15 years, Alison is a professional licensed by the State of California. She has perfected a one-handed technique that allows her to work quickly and precisely to remove hair from arms, legs, underarms, neck, face, back, shoulders, hands, feet, and more. Unlike laser treatments, electrolysis can work on people of any skin color, dark hair or light. Alison specializes in treating women who suffer from hormonal imbalances such as PCOS causing male pattern hair growth, but is experienced in providing all kinds of electrolysis services.