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GOOD BYE ARMPIT HAIR!!
Electrolysis is the only permanent means of removing hair from the underarm. Electrolysis involves the administration of an electrical current to individual hair follicles via an epilator. This current causes the follicle to die, thereby preventing the regrowth of hair. The American Electrology Association states that electrolysis is the only method of hair removal that is 100 percent effective, although multiple treatments may be required before all of your underarm hair is gone. It is also the only permanent hair removal method recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Most electrolysis sessions take 15 to 60 minutes.

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Step 1
Schedule your appointment during the week following your menstrual cycle, as your skin may be more sensitive during and just before your period. Zap Electrolysis also recommends avoiding sun exposure, caffeine and chocolate for a day or two before your appointment.
Step 2
Stop other methods of hair removal at least one week before your electrolysis appointment. The Electrolysis Society of Florida explains that your hair must be partially grown out for the procedure to be successful and to minimize the risk of infection.
Step 3
Drink plenty of water and other fluids before and after your procedure to hydrate your hair follicles and make them easier to treat with electrolysis.
Step 4
Ask for a topical anesthetic before the procedure. Electrolysis can cause discomfort both during and immediately after the procedure.
A topical numbing agent, such as benzocaine, will reduce your discomfort. Taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, about 30 minutes before your session may also ease discomfort and prevent any swelling following the procedure.

AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT
Step 1
Apply a topical antibiotic cream to your underarms after returning home from your procedure, unless your practitioner instructs otherwise. This will minimize any chance of infection. A topical corticosteroid cream is useful at reducing redness and inflammation, but this is not typically necessary.
Step 2
Wear sunscreen on treated areas for at least three days following your procedure. Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can cause hyperpigmentation in areas recently treated with electrolysis.
Step 3
Return for your follow up visits on schedule. Failure to do so may result in incomplete hair removal.

TIPS AND WARNINGS
*Choose a certified practitioner who performs electrolysis using needles. Some practitioners use electronic tweezers, but this method of hair removal is less reliable, explains the Cleveland Clinic website. Laser therapy is an alternative to electrolysis that may also result in permanent hair removal. However, it may take six or more laser sessions to permanently remove your underarm hair, according to LaserHairRemoval.org, and some regrowth of hair is common.
*Electrolysis devices are available for home use; however, the Cleveland Clinic warns against using these devices without proper training.

THINGS YOU'LL NEED
*Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
*Topical antibiotic ointment
*Over-the-counter corticosteroid cream

REFERENCES
*American Electrology Association: Electrolysis
*Electrolysis Society of Florida: Electolysis Q&A for Customers
*Cleveland Clinic: Electrolysis
*Zap Electrolysis: Electrolysis Pre-Care
*LaserHairRemoval.org: Underarm Hair Removalu