Electrolysis (also known as diathermy) is the gold standard for those seeking a truly permanent solution to unwanted facial and body hair. While laser treatments are highly effective for permanent hair reduction, Electrolysis remains the only method legally and scientifically recognised as permanent hair removal.
How it Works The procedure involves the meticulous insertion of an extremely fine, sterile probe into individual hair follicles. A gentle electrical current is then delivered to the root, destroying the follicle’s ability to regenerate. Because we treat each hair one by one, it is a highly precise and effective process.
What to Expect
Commitment to Results: To achieve total permanence, a series of sessions is required. This allows us to catch every hair during its specific growth cycle.
Comfort: Sensation is entirely subjective and varies from person to person. Most clients describe the feeling as a brief “bee sting” or similar to the sensation of a tattoo. We work at a pace that ensures your comfort throughout.
Safety & Eligibility: This service is available to adults aged 18 and over. Please note that treatment is not offered for intimate areas.
By choosing Electrolysis at this clinic, you are opting for a method that works on all hair colours and skin types—offering a final, lasting solution to unwanted hair.
Who is it for?
It can be used on most people including men and women who want body hair removed for:
- Cosmetic reasons
- Women who are suffering from hirsuitism (excess hair in a male pattern), which can be caused by the menopause, conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome or steroid use, and
- Clients who are undergoing gender reassignment from male to female.
Can electrolysis for hair removal trigger hair growth?
Electrolysis is the only method of hair removal that can claim to be permanent. Results are enhanced on the face when appropriate medication is used.
Laser and IPL hair removal can only claim to lead to permanent hair reduction. There is a recognised complication with laser and IPL called paradoxical hair growth.
It has been suggested that individuals with darker skin types (III-V) with dark, thick hair and underlying hormonal conditions may be at increased risk of experiencing the condition. To read an article on this by the Clinic Director , published in the Aesthetics Journal please click here.
Who can't have electrolysis?
Conditions that may prevent treatment include: haemophilia, heart disorders, pacemakers, cochlear implant, contagious diseases and disorders, Hepatitis B, HIV, cancer or epilepsy.
Conditions that may restrict treatment: steroid drugs, endocrine disorders, metal plates and pins, cardiovascular disorders, loss of tactile sensation in localised areas, skin disorders and diseases, nickel allergy, hairy moles, pregnancy, drugs/alcohol, cuts/abrasions/bruising, emotional problems, dermagraphic skin condition, microdermabrasion or dermabrasion, chemical peels, latex allergy (wear vinyl gloves), certain medications or creams (e.g. Ro-accutane, Retin A, retinol), breast implants (contra-indication to underarm treatment), epilepsy, diabetes, psoriasis, eczema, acne, dermabrasion on the areas to be treated.
People with darker skin may need to consider alternatives because of the risk of hypo or hyerpigmentation.
How many treatments are needed?
The question of how long it will take to permanently remove the unwanted hair is always asked, but it is impossible to give an accurate answer. Small areas can take up to 4 years. This may appear daunting, but treatment will not always be weekly, but will reduce to once every 2,3,4 or even 6 weeks as the strength of the hair is reduced. The length of each treatment period is also reduced over time.
What type of needles are used?
This clinic only uses Sterex needles. Both gold and steel needles are available.
- Gold needles are manufactured from medical grade stainless steel and then 24 carat gold plated. This is for use with clients with allergies to nickel offering a smooth insertion and improved conductivity associated with gold.
- Steel needles are manufactured from medical grade stainless steel. This provides essential flexibility and feel. There is less chance of inaccurate probing as the needle will bend if it meets any resistance.
- Insulated steel needles. The purpose of insulated needles in permanent hair removal with electrolysis is to concentrate the electrical current and heat at the very tip of the needle, at the base of the hair follicle, while protecting the client’s upper skin layers from damage and reducing discomfort. They are manufactured from medical grade stainless steel and coated with a specialist medical grade insulation material. The insulated needles are suitable for sensitive skin types but can only be used with the short wave Diathermy method (which is the one where you do not have to hold the electrode in your hand).
How do I get started?
The process begins online with a remote assessment using the link at the top of this page. At the appointment your medical history and issues relevant to the electrolysis procedure will be discussed. Based on the information given, you will be advised on appropriate skincare to support the process and your skin’s health.
You will then be invited to the clinic for a face to face assessment to examine your skin in more detail. At the appointment you will have the opportunity to test out sunscreens. The expectation is that you will be using a Clinic Approved sunscreen while you are having electrolysis with this clinic to reduce the chances of unwanted pigmentation which can happen in the weeks to months after treatment.
You will be asked to purchase a non-tester sized sunscreen directly from this clinic before you can attend for your first taster session of electrolysis.
If you are suitable for electrolysis you will be invited to book in for a a consultation and taster session where your response to the procedure can be tested. During this appointment your tolerance to the procedure will be experienced, and you will be sent home with Sterex aftercare products. This clinic recommends Zo Skin Health Soothing Hydro mist for faster healing which would need to be purchased separately.
The faster, but more uncomfortable thermolysis method will be tried first. If this is too much then you will be swapped over to the gentler blend method where you hold an electrode in your hand. It is also an opportunity to see how your hair follicle responds to the different needle types.
If you have darker skin and are prone to post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, we will proceed with caution as there is an increased risk of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Your skin’s health will be prioritised over permanent hair removal so proceeding with treatment may not always be suitable.
What happens at the first clinic appointment?
At the first appointment you attend at the clinic you will be given the opportunity to ask questions about the procedure. Time will be taken to find the right settings for hair removal for you.
The area is likely to look pink/red and lumpy immediately after the treatment. This will last for a few hours, sometimes several days.
Longer term side effects may include, but are not limited to:
– Inflammation of the hair follicle
– Swelling
– Bruising
– Small blister and/or pinpoint bleeding
– Hyperpigmentation (more likely on darker skin types and those prone to tanning)
– Pitted scarring
For treatments on the face and neck a complementary 20 minutes of Dermalux LED light treatment is offered to help with healing
What to do in the next 24 hours
It is very important that you follow the aftercare instructions carefully:
- Try to avoid touching the area
- Do not have any hot baths or showers for the next 24 hours
- Do not use any perfumed products for the next 24 hours such as:
- Perfumed soaps/cleansers
- Perfumed creams
- Perfumed sprays
- Perfumed bubble baths
- Perfumed shower gels
- Perfumed talcum powder
- Do not sunbathe or use sunbeds for the next 24 hours
- Avoid wearing tight clothing that might rub or chafe
- Do not use deodorant or antiperspirant on the treated area for the next 24 hours
- Do not have a sauna or any form of heat treatment for the next 24 hours
Please do not use ice on the treated area at any time after the treatment.
Recommended aftercare products
During electrolysis, a tiny probe is inserted into the hair follicle and a small electrical current is applied to destroy the hair root. This is a targeted burn, which leaves the follicle open, irritated, and susceptible to bacteria.
Aloe Vera and Witch Hazel are used after electrolysis for their soothing, calming, and antiseptic properties. Witch hazel cleans and disinfects, and Aloe Vera soothes and heals. Keeping the treated area clean and calm is the best way to ensure a smooth recovery with minimal side effects.
🌿 Aloe Vera Gel
Soothes and Cools: It’s famous for its natural cooling and hydrating qualities, which immediately helps to reduce the redness and swelling—kind of like a natural ice pack.
Aids Healing: Its compounds help to alleviate inflammation and promote the skin’s natural repair process.
Moisturizes: It provides much-needed hydration without clogging the open follicles.
🌳 Witch Hazel Gel
Antiseptic/Astringent: This is the key. Witch hazel is a natural astringent, meaning it helps to cleanse and disinfect the open hair follicles, significantly reducing the risk of infection or small breakouts (pustules).
Reduces Swelling: It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm irritation and minimize swelling.
Clinisept spray can be used as an alternative to the above 2 products, primarily because of its unique combination of powerful antimicrobial action and gentle, skin-compatible formula.
1. Antimicrobial Protection (Preventing Infection)
Targeting Open Follicles: Electrolysis works by inserting a probe into the hair follicle and applying heat, which leaves the follicle temporarily open and vulnerable. This is a potential pathway for bacteria to enter, leading to breakouts (pustules) or infection.
Advanced Hypochlorous Technology: Clinisept+ utilizes a patented form of Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl), a substance naturally produced by your white blood cells to fight infection. It is highly effective at killing 99.99% of germs, bacteria, and pathogens.
Non-Resistance: Unlike some other antiseptics, its oxidising method of action means pathogens cannot build up resistance to it.
2. Soothing and Calming the Skin
Anti-Inflammatory Action: Electrolysis causes temporary redness, heat, and swelling (oedema) in the treated area. Clinisept+ is known to reduce the appearance of redness and swelling, providing a cooling and soothing sensation.
pH Neutral and Gentle: It has a skin-neutral pH and is free from alcohol, parabens, lanolin, oils, and fragrances. This makes it non-irritating, non-stinging, and safe for use on even the most sensitive or compromised skin, which is crucial for the tender skin post-treatment.
3. Creating Optimal Healing Conditions
Non-Cytotoxic: Crucially, Clinisept+ is non-cytotoxic, meaning it does not harm the re-growing skin cells. This is a significant advantage over harsh alcohol or astringent-based products that can inhibit the skin’s natural recovery process.
Clean Environment: By ensuring high levels of cleanliness without leaving any residue or chemical burden, it creates the perfect, sterile environment for the skin’s natural healing and recovery to occur rapidly.
Easy Application: The spray format allows for application without needing to rub or touch the highly sensitive, treated area, further minimising irritation and the risk of introducing bacteria.
Upgrading your aftercare products
While Aloe Vera and Witch Hazel are reliable, traditional choices, there are specialist skin care/ medical-grade products designed to rapidly calm, hydrate, and actively rebuild the skin barrier following a procedure. Think of it as upgrading from a basic bandage to a high-tech medical dressing.
Used in conjunction with the recommended cleansers below and recommended SPFs below will help to build healthier skin and aid recovery, and reduce the chances of cosmetic complications such as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
🔬 Zo Skin Health Soothing Hydro Mist - Ideal for the initial soothing period
Electrolysis causes controlled thermal damage to destroy the hair follicle. The key needs for the skin immediately afterward are cooling, deep hydration, and barrier repair. The Soothing Hydromist is formulated with specific, high-end ingredients to meet these needs
| Key Ingredient/Feature | Post-Electrolysis Benefit |
| Multi-Weight Hyaluronic Acid Complex | Unlike basic moisturizers, it delivers deep, multi-layered hydration to skin that is temporarily dehydrated and inflamed by the heat. |
| Piperonyl Glucoside | This is a targeted soothing agent that is clinically shown to reduce visible redness and flushing—which is one of the most immediate and common side effects of electrolysis. |
| ZPOLY™ Complex (Exclusive Polysaccharides) | This complex focuses on restoring the skin’s protective barrier. A compromised barrier allows bacteria in and moisture out, so strengthening it is critical to preventing infection and supporting overall healing. |
| Alfalfa Extract | A nutrient-rich antioxidant that helps defend the skin against oxidative stress (damage from the treatment and environment). |
| Mist Format | Applying a mist avoids the need to rub or touch the extremely sensitive, open follicles, which minimizes irritation and the risk of introducing bacteria. |
Intradermology skincare products for use after the first 24-48 hours
After the first 24 – 48 hours the Intradermology Heal & Hydrate PEP-UP Complex or the Intense Repair Complex (part of their night repair stage) would be the most suitable follow-up products, as their focus is on hydration and barrier repair after the initial soothing period.
ESK skincare product ideal for use after the first 24-48 hours
After the first 24-48 hours ESK Repair + is specifically designed to calm sensitive, irritable, and compromised skin, which perfectly describes the skin immediately following electrolysis.
It helps to reduce inflammation and redness (Niacinamide, Panthenol).
It aids in repairing the skin barrier (Ceramides, Niacinamide), which is essential to prevent infection in the open follicles.
It provides deep hydration (HA, Squalane, Panthenol) to prevent dryness and scabbing.
Because it is formulated to be gentle, scent-free, paraben-free, and sulphate-free, it minimizes the risk of irritation on the vulnerable treated area.
Key Ingredients and Benefits for Post-Electrolysis Skin:
| Ingredient | Benefit for Post-Electrolysis Skin |
| Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) | Anti-inflammatory and reduces visible redness and irritation. It also supports the restoration of the skin barrier, which is temporarily disrupted by the treatment. |
| Panthenol (Provitamin B5) | Known for its calming and soothing properties, it helps reduce irritation and promotes wound healing and skin repair. |
| Ceramides | These are lipids (fats) that are naturally found in the skin barrier. Applying them helps to replenish and strengthen the skin’s barrier function, locking in moisture and protecting the vulnerable treated follicles. |
| Hyaluronic Acid (HA) | A powerful humectant that draws and retains moisture in the skin, addressing the post-treatment dryness and supporting the healing process by keeping the area hydrated and supple. |
| Squalane | An excellent, non-irritant emollient that helps soften the skin, prevent water loss, and boost overall skin hydration. |
Recommended Post Electrolysis Cleansers available from this clinic
Post-electrolysis skin is sensitive and needs a very gentle approach. The general rule is to avoid anything harsh or stripping or exfoliating for at least 48-72 hours because the hair follicles will be open and inflamed.
There are a range of clinic only cleansers which will help with overall skin health and recovery at a range of price points.
Purchasing a full size recommended cleanser and full size SPF at the same time from this clinic will entitle you to a selected complementary treatment to be taken within 6 weeks of the purchase.
Zo Skin Health Cleansers
✨ ZO Skin Health Gentle Cleanser
Why it’s great: It’s a foaming cleanser designed to remove impurities and makeup without over-drying the skin. Its name says it all—it’s mild, calming, and well-suited for sensitive or compromised skin types, which is exactly what you have post-electrolysis.
Key Benefit: Removes oil and debris while helping to maintain skin hydration and providing a calming effect.
💧 ZO Skin Health Hydrating Cleanser
Why it’s great: This is the brand’s go-to for dry or sensitised skin. Electrolysis can leave the area feeling quite dry and irritated, and this cleanser is specifically formulated to retain moisture during the cleansing process.
Key Benefit: Cleanses while infusing hydration, minimising dryness and irritation. It contains soothing ingredients like Allantoin.
🛑 Crucial Caveat: What to Avoid
For the first few days (typically 48–72 hours), you must absolutely avoid the following ZO products on the treated area:
Exfoliating Cleanser
Balancing Cleansing Emulsion (often used for oil control/acne and may be too active)
Any product with Retinoids (Vitamin A) or AHAs/BHAs.
Always follow the specific aftercare instructions given to you by your licensed electrologist or prescribing ZO specialist, as the exact duration of your downtime will vary based on the area treated and your skin’s reaction.
ESK cleanser
🏆 The Best Choice: ESK Calming Cleanser
The ESK Calming Cleanser is the clear winner for immediate aftercare following permanent hair removal treatments like electrolysis.
This cleanser is designed for sensitive, irritated, or compromised skin. It provides a soothing, gentle cleanse that removes impurities without stripping or stinging the delicate, treated area. It’s what you want when your skin is recovering.
Key Aftercare Cleansing Rules:
Wait: Do not wash the treated area for at least 24 hours after your procedure, or follow the specific timeline given by your electrologist.
No Scrubbing: When you do cleanse, use only your clean fingertips and a light, patting motion. Absolutely no washcloths, sponges, or scrubbing.
Temperature: Use lukewarm or cool water only. Hot water will increase inflammation
Sente Cleanser
The Best Choice: Sente Daily Soothing Cleanser
Why It’s the Best Choice:
| Key Feature | Rationale for Post-Electrolysis |
| Gentle & Soothing | It is specifically designed for sensitive, redness-prone, and compromised skin. It calms irritation and reduces visible redness. |
| No Harsh Actives | It is formulated without exfoliating acids (AHAs or BHAs), Retinoids, or other active ingredients that would burn or severely irritate open follicles. |
| Fragrance-Free | Electrolysis aftercare requires avoiding all perfumes and synthetic fragrances, as they are common irritants to compromised skin. This cleanser is fragrance-free. |
| Barrier-Friendly | It’s designed to remove makeup and debris without disturbing the skin barrier—a crucial job when your skin is temporarily vulnerable. |
Recommended Clinic Sunscreens after electrolysis
Every client at this clinic is advised to used sunscreen daily, even in the winter months. The sunscreen available from this clinic work hard for your skin’s health after electrolysis. Regardless of which sunscreen you choose, avoid applying any product to the treated area for the first 24-48 hours as per general aftercare advice. Sun avoidance is key.
It is very important to wear sunscreen to reduce the risk of developing post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so this will be discussed at the appointment. If you are prone to post inflammatory hyperpigmentation you may consider starting a skincare programme to address this to help to reduce the chances of developing unwanted pigmentation after treatment.
Zo Skin Health
Zo Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 (48 hours after treatment)
Mineral Formula: This product is a lightweight, non-irritating mineral sunscreen that uses Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. Mineral sunscreens are often preferred for sensitive and post-procedure skin because they sit on top of the skin and create a physical barrier, which tends to be less irritating than chemical sunscreens.
Sensitive/Post-Procedure: It is specifically indicated for “the most sensitive skin types and post-procedure skin,” which perfectly matches your need after electrolysis.
Soothing Benefits: It is described as having an “ultra-mild formula” that “soothes the skin and helps to minimize irritation.” Electrolysis can leave the skin red and slightly swollen, so these soothing properties are a major plus.
High SPF & Broad Spectrum: A minimum of SPF 30 is recommended after electrolysis, and this offers SPF 50 with broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB and HEV light.
Obagi
Obagi Sun Shield Mineral SPF 50
(48 hours after treatment)
Ideal for post procedure skin, which means it should be gentle enough for compromised, sensitive skin.
Mineral Formula: It is a mineral sunscreen, containing Zinc Oxide (15.6%) and Titanium Dioxide (6.2%). Mineral blockers are highly recommended after electrolysis because they physically block UV rays on the skin’s surface and are far less likely to cause a reaction or sting on irritated skin than chemical sunscreens.
Gentle and Non-Comedogenic: It is described as sheer, quick-absorbing, non-greasy, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic. You want a non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) formula since your follicles are temporarily open after electrolysis.
High Protection: With an SPF 50 and broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB, Infrared (IR) rays, and High-Energy Visible (HEV) light (blue light), it offers the high level of defence needed to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
Sente
Sente Even Tone Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30.Sente is known for incorporating repair technology, which is a great angle for post-procedure skin. Start 24-48 hours after treatment. This is the preferred choice for skin prone to hyperpigmentation, coming in 2 shades: light-medium and medium-dark.
| Feature | Sente Even Tone Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 | Post-Electrolysis Benefit |
| Active Filters | 100% Mineral (Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide) | Provides gentle, physical sun blockage that is non-irritating and less likely to sting compromised skin. |
| Key Ingredient | Heparan Sulfate Analog (HSA) | This patented molecule is Sente’s star. It is specifically designed to support skin repair, reduce inflammation, and boost the skin’s immune response, which is exactly what your skin needs after the trauma of electrolysis. |
| Formula Type | Hypoallergenic, Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free | The treated hair follicles are open and susceptible to infection. A non-comedogenic formula won’t clog those open pores, and the lack of fragrance minimizes irritation. |
| Pigmentation Defense | Iron Oxides | Electrolysis can lead to Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH). The iron oxides in the tinted formula offer enhanced protection against visible light and blue light, both of which are known triggers for PIH. |
Intradermology
Start 24-48 hours after treatment.
High, Broad-Spectrum Protection (SPF 50+): This is the gold standard for protecting vulnerable, treated skin from both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
Added Soothing/Repair Ingredients: The product often contains ingredients like antioxidants and peptides. These components are beneficial because they:
Support the Skin Barrier: They help strengthen the skin’s natural defenses while it heals.
Combat Inflammation: Antioxidants can neutralize free radicals caused by the procedure and environmental stressors, reducing redness and inflammation.
Multi-Function/Tinted: Many versions are a lightly tinted moisturizer, which can help immediately camouflage any post-treatment redness without needing to apply traditional, potentially irritating makeu
Hydropeptide
Start 24-48 hours after treatment. The SPF 50 non tinted is the first choice because of the higher SPF. The tinted SPF 30 may be more suitable for looking for a tinted finish. Both are ideal for sensitised skin needing hydration.
Revision Skin Care
Anti-ageing untinted moisturiser with 100% mineral sunscreen.
Intellishade® TruPhysical Clear – a sheer 100% all-mineral broad-spectrum SPF50 anti-ageing moisturiser that enhances your natural radiance without the white cast or shine. This aesthetically elegant formula blends to a sheer finish on all skin tones and delivers significant improvement in overall photo damage, hyperpigmentation, radiance, fine lines, and even skin tone. This 4-in-1 formula corrects, protects, brightens and hydrates while providing clinically-demonstrated DNA protection and repair, helping to take skin from damaged to healthy as it intensifies antioxidant protection against future damage.
- Sheer 100% all-mineral broad-spectrum SPF50 anti-ageing moisturiser enhances the natural radiance of all skin tones without the white cast or shine
- Clinically proven after 12 weeks to deliver highly statistically significant improvement in overall photodamage, hyperpigmentation, radiance, fine lines, and even skin tone
- Corrects, protects, brightens, and hydrates while providing DNA protection and repair
What should I do if I develop a problem after the procedure?
Please let the clinic know as soon as possible so that you can be started on a suitable treatment programme.
The most common changes relate to changes in pigmentation and texture. In most cases this is temporary, but it is important to flag up any changes as early as possible so that you can start a daily skincare programme. You may also wish to try in-clinic treatments which can optimise your skin’s health in the long term.
Options include: SkinBetter Science, ESK skincare, ZO Skin Health.
Can anything else help to reduce hair?
There is a prescription medication called Eflornithine (brand name Vaniqa) which is for the face. It is not prescribed by this clinic but is available from online pharmacies. Please ensure you use your due diligence when buying prescription items online.
Can electrolysis be used for anything else?
Electrolysis can also be used to remove superficial skin blemishes, moles, skin tags, thread veins and blood spots, usually in just one session of electrolysis.
Please click here to find out more about blemish removal with electrolysis.