Electrolysis Regrowth Questions Answered

Electrolysis Regrowth Questions Answered

Over the years of removing unwanted hair with electrolysis, many questions have been asked by my clients. I felt I should answer and shed some light on the subject of growth, regrowth making it clear and understandable when it comes to electrolysis treatment for permanent hair removal.

True Regrowth

True regrowth can be caused by shallow insertion, missed insertion or not enough current. In most regrowth cases, only the anchor is coagulated. (In some cases, the lower root structure separates and remains.) As the coagulated upper follicle heals, the undamaged lower target area regenerates and produces one of three types of true regrowth: Instant regrowth, Ingrown hairs, and Embedded hairs.

Instant Regrowth

It shows up in about 2 weeks after treatment. Typically, this form of true regrowth is seen with body work such as on a man’s back. (“Instant” regrowth is only verifiable on unshaven areas.) “Instant” regrowth appears as a stubby shaved hair. Usually, the hair pushes up the epidermis and forms a tiny bump. Sometimes the follicle is slightly inflamed and debris from the earlier-epilated hair root is present. “Instant” regrowth requires no specific aftercare, just treat the hair again.

Ingrown Hairs

Show up 2-4 months after treatment, much later than “instant” growth. An ingrown hair appears as a small bump with a dark center spot. Careful examination reveals a looped or coiled hair. The ingrown hair may extend just under the epidermis. You may see minor inflammation and occasionally some pus. There is evidence of greater destruction that took place than with the “instant” regrowth case. There has been greater destruction because it took more time for the hair to return. There was not enough damage to completely abolish the lower follicle. Thus, a new hair grew from the insufficiently damaged target area. The tips of the sterile tweezers are inserted under the ingrown hair loop, lifting the hair shaft out. If the hair is attached, then it’s treated with a lethal dose of current.

Embedded Hairs

Appear 2 to 4 months after treatment about the same time as ingrown hairs. This form of true regrowth typically grows along the skin and looks like a sinister shadow. Usually, the entire embedded hair shaft remains in the skin. In some cases, the tip of the hair randomly pokes out through the skin. You rarely can tell the true angle of the follicle. The skin is seldom inflamed. Fortunately, normal skin exfoliation eventually sloughs off most embedded hairs.

These are just some of the forms of growth and regrowth. There is no way to authenticate true regrowth. A small amount of regrowth is inevitable over the course of electrolysis treatments.

False Regrowth?

False regrowth may sound implausible, but it is a real thing. In the next article forms of false regrowth will be discussed in the July Blog.