What is Terminal Hair?
Hair comes in many forms. From head to toe, it serves different purposes and grows at various stages of life. Electrolysis is an effective treatment for all hair types, whether curly, straight, light, dark, fine, or thick. In this article, we'll explore terminal hair and why it is generally more challenging to treat.
Understanding of Terminal Hair
Terminal hair begins as soft, fine peach fuzz but eventually develops distinct characteristics. These hairs grow longer, thicker, and darker, typically in shades of brown or black. However, they can be red, blonde, or grey. They can grow thicker for various reasons. These reasons include, but are not limited to, hormone fluctuations, genetics, medications, illness, etc. Terminal hairs are also more robust compared to other types of hair, with a thicker root. While men generally have more terminal hair, many women also develop these thick, dark hairs. Common skin areas where terminal hair appears include the face, scalp, underarms, chest, abdomen, pubic region, and legs. Due to their dark color and length, terminal hairs are often a source of embarrassment for people.
Why is Terminal Hair Harder to Treat?
When hair reaches its terminal stage, it becomes "permanent," making it challenging to remove. The only way to eliminate terminal hair permanently is by damaging the papilla, the blood supply at the base of the hair follicle. Terminal hairs are more difficult to treat because they are deeply rooted in the skin, coarser, and can have a darker pigment. This depth and density are also why selecting the right removal method is so important.
Laser Hair Removal and Its Limits
Laser hair removal can be an excellent first step for large areas of terminal hair, but it only works when three criteria are met: the hair must be thick, dark, and dense. These are not subjective traits but specific requirements for the laser to effectively absorb the pigment and destroy the hair follicle. If the hair falls short of any one of these factors, the laser may not reduce it, and in some cases, may even stimulate more growth instead of less. Therefore, a thorough consultation with a qualified professional is essential to assess whether your hair meets these standards before starting treatment.
Effective Electrolysis Method: The Blend Technique
Among the three ways to do electrolysis techniques, many say the Blend method works best for hair removal. This technique combines Thermolysis and the Galvanic method at the same time. By using both, it can do a better job of getting rid of the hair follicle. Although the Blend technique requires more time and precision from the electrologist, it is not necessarily more painful than the other methods. Thermolysis, on the other hand, uses only heat to target the follicle. It works best for treating just a few terminal hairs or for hairs that grow straight beneath the skin, such as those on the lower legs. In these cases, thermolysis can be a fast, efficient option.
Combining Laser Hair Removal with Electrolysis
For larger areas with heavy terminal hair growth, starting with laser can reduce hair bulk and weaken the roots, provided the hair meets the thick, dark, and dense criteria. This makes the following electrolysis sessions smoother and more effective. As time goes on, electrolysis will make terminal hairs softer and lighter, and you will see them grow less often.
Regrowth Time Chart
| Type of Hair | Key (F/M) | Regrowth Time |
|---|---|---|
| Hairline | F/M | 4-6 Weeks |
| Eyebrows | F/M | 3-6 Weeks |
| Upper lip (Vellus) | F | 7-10 Weeks |
| Upper lip (Terminal) | F/M | 4-6 Weeks |
| Side of Face (Vellus) | F | 4-15 Weeks |
| Side of Face (Terminal) | F/M | 4-6 Weeks |
| Chin (Vellus) | F | 6-8 Weeks |
| Chin (Terminal) | F/M | 4-6 Weeks |
| Neck (Terminal) | F | 5-6 Weeks |
| Neck (Terminal) | M | 3-6 Weeks |
| Ears (Vellus) | F/M | 9-12 Weeks |
| Ears (Terminal) | F/M | 6-8 Weeks |
| Breast | F | 4-8 Weeks |
| Chest (Terminal) | F | 6-9 Weeks |
| Chest (Terminal) | M | 5-8 Weeks |
| Back and Shoulders (Terminal) | F | 7-9 Weeks |
| Back and Shoulders (Terminal) | M | 5-8 Weeks |
| Arms (Terminal) | F/M | 6-9 Weeks |
| Legs (Terminal) | F/M | 5-8 Weeks |
| Hands (Terminal) | F/M | 5-7 Weeks |
| Underarms | F/M | 4-8 Weeks |
| Feet (Terminal) | F/M | 4-8 Weeks |
Book a consultation today to permanently remove terminal hair: http://www.LimogesBeauty.com.