Electrolysis is, to this day, the only proven method of permanent hair removal, as approved by the British Medical Association (BMA). Whilst Laser and IPL may achieve a reduction in hair, only electrolysis can guarantee permanent removal. For transsexual clients, permanent hair removal is usually considered one of the most fundamental parts of transition.

Electrolysis can be performed on facial areas (upper lip, chin, neck, sides of face) low hairline, thick eyebrows, between the brows, sideburns, arms, underarms, breasts and between them, all lower regions (including thighs, feet, toes), including the genital area. The treatment can be uncomfortable but this can depend on the clients pain threshold. Skin reaction is a common feature for electrolysis such as erythema (skin redness) and occasional weals or bumps from the follicle. This reaction slowly subsides after treatment.

Using industry leading Apilus computer-controlled advanced electrolysis offers pin point precision, high levels of comfort, and one thousandth of a second pulses of current that are able to target hair growth effectively whilst reducing skin irritation.

The treatment involves inserting a fine needle into the hair follicle underneath the skin, and targeting the hair root. Sufficient current is then passed down the needle to destroy the root, thus enabling the hair to be withdrawn.

Hair growth occurs in cycles. The Anagen phase is the growing stage, which results in the complete restructuring of the lower follicle. To achieve complete removal or destruction of the hair permanently, the hair must be in the anagen phase when it is targeted by electrolysis.

The Catagen phase is a transitional stage where the club hair is formed. The dermal papilla detaches from the matrix and the hair starts to rise in the follicle. This hair follicle will continue to produce hair after electrolysis but the hair regrowth will be fair and weaker.

The Telogen phase is a resting phase. The follicle remains inactive until stimulated into growth again. The club hair is retained in the follicle until the new hair is produced which pushes the club hair out of the follicle. In this phase, the hair will be unaffected by electrolysis.

Recent research has also discovered that there is an additional phase in the hair growth cycle, occuring after the Telogen phase. This is known as the Exogen phase, and is an area under the sebaceous gland which also contains hair cells which should be targetted by electrolysis. Apilus Electrolysis is not only able to treat all skin and hair types, but also able to target this additional hair growth phase.

Genital hair removal for transsexual clients is recommended to be undertaken with electrolysis as it is the only guaranteed method for permanent removal. It is vital that hair does not return within the new vagina post-operatively, as this can cause the client significant problems. For the best results to be achieved, this treatment must be considered at least 9-12 months prior to surgery.

Further information on genital hair removal (PDF)