What is advanced electrolysis?

As far back as the early 1900's electrolysis was being used for the treatment of port-wine marks, broken capilliaries, spider naevi, warts and even xanthoma (yellow pigmented spots or plates found on the eyelids).

Today it has progressed a long way and with ongoing improvements and modern technology it is safe, comfortable and effective way of removing skin blemishes.

How does advanced electrolysis work?

The finest,tiny probe is used to apply a small amount of heat to the unwanted lesion. This coagulates (cooks) the targeted area, destroying the cause. The procedure is superficial, effective, and has a very low risk of any side effects. However, it is possible for the treated area to look worse before it looks better. Effects of this treatment can be seen immediately, however on occasions may take up to four weeks.

Will my blemishes return?

The treated blemish will not return but others may occur depending on the root cause. You will be advised more specifically, during your consultation.

How long will it take and how many treatments will I require?

Advanced electrolysis is a very safe, comfortable and effective treatment and offers instantaneous results in many cases. The time taken to treat any of these conditions will depend on the size, number and nature of the problem. The area work must notbe over treated and your skin reactivity will also be taken into account. Spacing technique and treatment intervals will be carefully considered and a treatment plan will be recommended.

What skin blemishes does Advance electrolysis treat?

Outlined below is a brief description of some of the blemishes that can be easily and safely removed with Advanced Electrolysis:

Telangiectasia / thread veins
These are not broken capillaries but rather permanently dilated capillaries. They have very thin walls which constantly dilate and constrict. As we age, these vessels lose their elasticity and can become permanently dilated.

There are numerous causes including: ageing, hereditary, pregnancy, the rubbing of spectacles, smoking, energetic sports, temperature extremes and harsh weather exposure, hormones and skin fragility.

Spider Naevus
Central dilated blood vessel, with smaller capillaries radiating from it like the legs of a spider. They can be found in isolation or gathered together in clumps on areas such as cheeks.

Milia
These are tiny white hard lumps containing keratin which lie superficially under the surface of the skin and can be easily treated with ACP techniques. Their exact cause is unknown although they are often associated with dry skin which can be acidic.

Skin tags
Also known as Filiform warts or Fibro-Epithelial Polyps. Skin tags are very common and most frequently found on the neck and face. They are often found in areas of friction such as the underarm, under the breasts or around the neck where necklaces may irritate. They often appear with a neck like a mushroom and vary in size from a tiny speck, smaller than a grain of uncooked rice, to the size of a large pea or even larger.

Cherry angioma
Also known as Blood spots or Blood moles, Campbell de Morgan spots and Cherry spots. They are most commonly found on the torso but can occur anywhere on the body. These are bright red vascular blemishes which lie just under the surface of the skin. They are usually dome shaped or slightly raised. Most people aged over 30 have at least one and they are more commonly seen on men more than women.

Warts
There are various types of warts, including plane, common, seborrhoeic and verrucas. All can be easily and successfully treated. Warts can develop individually or in clusters. Seborrhoeic warts become more common with increasing age and can grow up to two inches across.

Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra
This is a common disorder which develops in adolescence on black skin and is identified by smooth, dome shaped, brown to black papules seen mainly on the cheeks, neck and upper chest.

What does the consultation involve?

The area for treatment will be assessed and the treatment process will be discussed in detail. Any questions you may have will be answered at this stage. If you are happy with the information provided and would like to proceed with treatment, dependant on suitability, a test patch can be carried out on the same day.

Does it hurt?

There is always some degree of discomfort associated with electrolysis; however it depends greatly on the individual’s tolerance to pain, the type of hair, and the area being treated. The sensation is described as a slight sting or short heat sensation. A topical anaesthetic is available to make your treatment more comfortable (applicable for hair removal electrolysis only)

Are there any side effects?

The possible reactions following the treatment of electrolysis / advanced electrolysis are detailed below:
• Erythema (reddening of the skin)
• Swelling
• Blanching
• Blistering
• Crusts and scabbing
• Blemishes
• Pigmentation markings

Majority of the above reactions are superficial and short lived. Those that are applicable and/or more likely to occur following your treatment will be discussed and advised during your consultation.

Is there anything that I should or should not do following electrolysis?

In order to achieve optimum results it is critical to adhere to the following advice for a minimum of 24hrs following treatment:
• Avoid exercise
• Do not use a steam room or sauna
• Avoid sunbathing (including the use of sun beds)
• Make-up should not be applied
• Avoid contact with water (not applicable after hair removal)
• Avoid alcohol or perfumed based products on the area
• Prevent stretching and touching the treated area