Electrolysis-Hair Removal

a permanent hair removal method that uses a fine probe to deliver an electric current into the hair follicle, destroying the hair’s growth center. It’s considered the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal. The process involves inserting a tiny needle into the hair follicle, applying a small amount of heat (diathermy), and then gently removing the treated hair.

How it works:

• Fine probe insertion:
  A very thin needle, similar in size to the hair shaft or smaller, is inserted into the hair follicle. 

Diathermy is a treatment for red veins (thread veins, spider veins) that uses a fine needle to apply a small electrical current to the vein, causing it to heat and seal, eventually disappearing. The treatment is especially effective for tiny, surface-level veins on the face and legs.

How it works:

• A very fine needle is used to prick the skin over the vein.
• An electrical current is passed through the vein, heating it and causing it to clot.
• The vein then withers and disperses over a few weeks, becoming less noticeable.
• The treated area may be pink or puffy for a few hours after treatment.

Benefits:

• Effective: Diathermy has a high success rate (around 95%) for treating thread veins and spider veins.
• Minimally invasive: It involves a fine needle and does not require a laser.
  Suitable for various locations: It can be used to treat red veins on the face and other areas of the body.

Things to keep in mind:

• Consultation: It’s important to have a consultation with a qualified practitioner to discuss your specific situation and expectations.
• Possible side effects: After treatment, you may experience temporary redness, swelling, or bruising.
• Multiple treatments: Cases will require  a minimum of 6 within a defined period of time to achieve optimal results.

Diathermy Skin Tag Removal

Diathermy is a method of skin tag removal that uses heat to burn and remove the tag. It involves using a heated probe to cauterize the skin tag at its base, effectively sealing off blood flow and causing it to fall off.

How it works:

• Your Skin clinician uses a heated diathermy probe to apply heat to the skin tag.
• This heat cauterizes the tissue, sealing off blood vessels and causing the skin tag to dry out and fall off.
• The procedure is precise, minimizing bleeding and potential damage to surrounding skin.

After the procedure:

• The treated area may be red, swollen, or tender for a few days.
• The skin tag will typically scab over and fall off within a week or two.
• Aftercare instructions may include keeping the area clean and avoiding picking at the scab.

Benefits of diathermy for skin tag removal:

Effectiveness:

• Diathermy is a highly effective method for removing skin tags, with the tag typically falling off shortly after treatment.

Precision:

• The procedure allows for precise targeting of the skin tag, minimizing damage to surrounding skin.

Minimally invasive:

• Diathermy is a relatively quick and simple procedure with minimal downtime.

Diathermy Milia Removal (Whiteheads)

Diathermy, also known as shortwave diathermy or thermolysis, is a method used to remove milia by applying heat to the affected area. A fine, heated needle is used to cauterize or destroy the milia, allowing for its contents to be released and the blemish to be removed. This technique is often used for milia, skin tags, and other minor skin imperfections.

How Diathermy Works for Milia Removal:

1.  Application:
   A small, sterile needle is heated using an electrical current.
2. Cauterization:
   The heated needle is carefully applied to the milium, the hard, keratin-filled bump that characterizes milia.
3. Dispersal:
   The heat from the needle helps to break down and disperse the contents of the milium.
4. Healing:
   The area may form a small crust that should be allowed to fall off naturally.

Key Features of Diathermy for Milia:

Precision:

• Diathermy allows for precise targeting of the milia, minimizing damage to surrounding skin.

Effectiveness:

• It is a relatively quick and effective method for removing milia, with results often seen immediately.

Minimal Scarring:

• When performed by a trained professional, diathermy can minimize the risk of scarring and infection.

Versatility:

• Diathermy can also be used to treat other skin blemishes like skin tags, thread veins, and some vascular lesions.

Contraindications for electrolysis & diathermy

• Pacemakers and other electronic implants:

Diathermy can interfere with the function of pacemakers and other electronic implants, potentially causing serious harm.

• Certain heart conditions:

Uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart conditions, and other cardiovascular issues may be exacerbated by diathermy.

• Epilepsy:

The electrical currents used in diathermy can potentially trigger seizures in susceptible individuals.

• Pregnancy:

Diathermy is generally avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus.

• Active skin infections or lesions:

Open wounds, active herpes outbreaks, or other skin infections in the treatment area can be aggravated by diathermy.

• Keloid scarring or hypertrophic scarring:

Individuals prone to forming these types of scars may experience worsened scarring with diathermy.

• Metal implants:

Metal implants, especially those near the treatment area, can conduct heat and cause burns.

• Blood thinning medication:

Certain blood thinners can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising with diathermy.

• Bleeding abnormalities:

Conditions that affect blood clotting can lead to excessive bleeding during or after treatment.

Relative Contraindications (treatment may be possible with caution or modifications):

• Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can affect wound healing and increase the risk of complications.
• Immunodeficiency: Conditions like HIV or lupus can impair the body’s ability to heal and fight infection.
• Sunburn or recent sun exposure: The treated area may be more sensitive to heat and light after sunburn.
• Certain skin conditions: Conditions like psoriasis or eczema may be aggravated by diathermy.
• Allergies: Allergies to ultrasound gel or other materials used in the procedure should be considered.
• Medications: Certain medications can increase sensitivity to heat or light.

Aftercare

Detailed Aftercare Instructions:

• Keep the area clean and dry:

Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water to gently cleanse the area.

• Avoid touching or picking:

Resist the urge to touch or pick at the treated area, as this can increase the risk of infection and scarring.

• Apply cool compresses:

If you experience redness or swelling, apply a cold compress (a clean, soft cloth dampened with cold water) for a few minutes at a time to soothe the area.

• Moisturize and protect:

Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to hydrate the skin and promote healing.

• Avoid sun exposure:

Protect the treated area from sun exposure, especially in the first few weeks, by using a high SPF sunscreen (30 or higher).

• Avoid heat and sweating:

For the first 24-48 hours, avoid activities that cause heat or sweating, such as hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise.

• Avoid  skincare and makeup:

Avoid using harsh skincare products, exfoliants, or retinoids for a few days after treatment.

No make up for 24 hours unless mineral make up which can be used the next day .Skin Health Make up can be purchased in clinic that can be worn that day onwards .

• Hair shedding:

Treated hair will shed naturally within a few weeks. Avoid plucking or waxing during this time, but shaving is generally acceptable.

With Red Vein Removal you will have raised red marks on the skin for up to two weeks approx.. You cannot leave more than 5 weeks between your course of red vein treatments. You will need a minimum of 6 treatments.