What is Electrolysis
Electrolysis is one of the only methods of permanent hair removal and can safely be used on all areas of the face and body. However, it could be very dangerous in unskilled hands which is why all professionals must be trained and certified, Improper use can lead to scarring and ineffective results
Electrolysis is the process by which electric current is passed through a substance to effect a chemical change. The process is carried out in an electrolytic cell, an apparatus consisting of positive and negative electrodes held apart and dipped into a solution containing positively and negatively charged ions.
Why are there two types of shanks??
The two shank types are F and K, the type of shank to be used is determined by the probe holder and the difference is in the shank size, K is slightly Smaller than F. However, the size of the probe itself (the needle) remains the same. In fact, the use of one or the other doesn’t affect the treatment but is mainly relevant to country standards. For example, in Australia the F Shank is more popular.
Sterex
Sterex needles are one of the preferred brands for electrolysis professionals worldwide, Sterex’s excellent quality is often copied but never matched.
Sterex Headquarters are in Birmingham, England, this is where the electrolysis needles are manufactured by highly-skilled engineers who are subject to the strict and comprehensive quality checks required for medical devices.
The choice of needle affects the efficiency and success of the treatment as well as the client comfort levels. We recommend exploring the different types of Sterex needles to enable you to offer more choice to your clientele.
Ballet
Ballet is the largest selling electrolysis needle in the world. The micro-polished shaft and tip ensure smooth insertions and effective treatments. Ballet works with all modalities of electrolysis and all modern electrolysis machines.
Needles have continued to develop because of problems with old needles, and Ballet concluded electrologists wanted a flexible one-piece probe with a smoothly
rounded polished tip and inexpensive materials fit for one-time only use. These
developments were made in the creation of the Ballet Sterile Disposable Needle
Ballet developed a range of different electrolysis needles to fit the needs of different clients with differing sensitivities. Different types of needles introduced consisted of Stainless Steel Needles (inexpensive), Gold Needles (for those with stainless steel allergy), and Insulated Needles (for greater comfort and less scabbing)
Ballet needles have different sizes available for different types of hair. Needle size should be selected based on the size of the hair being treated these range from a size of 2 to 6. Frequency should also be adjusted, thinner needle sizes will create a hotter treatment. Ballet needles also have three shank sizes to fit all modern epilators
Ballet is committed to developing superior products for the professional. Ballet Sterile Disposable Needles have a superior design with a one-piece probe with a smoothly polished rounded tip and allow you to choose between different types of needles for different hair sizes and skin sensitivities.
Insulated needles
Insulated needles are suggested for clients with high sensitivity to the discomfort of electrolysis or prone to pigmentation. It is coated with a medical-grade insulation less than one micron (0.00004 inch) thick. This special coating allows smooth insertions and stands up to the longest treatments. Current flows to the lower follicle and papilla only.
Stainless Steel needles
The medical grade stainless steel needle is ideal for clients with strong healthy skin who respond well to electrolysis treatments.
Gold Needles
Gold offers a smooth, resistance free surface, facilitating an easier insertion and is less traumatic for sensitive skin, Suitable for clients with allergies to nickel. Gold is a good conductor which enables the current to be reduced, and minimises possible trauma in darker skins, it is also ideal for Afro Caribbean and Asian skins.
Gold needles reduce redness and swelling helping the skin rapidly return to normal even after the most delicate treatments, particularly red vein and skin tag work.
Red Vein Telangiectasia
Telangiectasia (also known as “spider veins”) are broken or dilated capillaries that are situated close to the Skin’s surface. The Ballet stainless steel Tel F3 and Tel K3 needles, designed for Telangiectasia and are sculpted from 18G nickel-chrome. Swedish stainless steel – the steel used in fine surgical instruments.
Micro-polishing is used to achieve unique points. Current intensity can be lowered and insertions are smooth, precise and comfortable.
One-piece needle
One-piece needles are crafted from one single piece of metal and give a rigidity and robustness for advanced treatments or stubborn hair removal. Ideal for both hair and Blemish removal.
Two-piece needles
Two-piece needle is crafted from two pieces of connected thin wire and offers flexibility to make perfect insertions. Available in three materials and is ideal for students and experienced practitioners
**TIP – Use the largest diameter needle that will comfortably fit in the follicle as the smaller diameter needles give a more intense sensation as well as a narrower field of action**
DISPOSABLE NEEDLE CONTAINER
What is the purpose of having special sharps containers?
A sharps container is a hard plastic container that is used to safely dispose of sharps within the salon eg. electrolysis needles/probes. They are often sealable and self-locking, as well as rigid, which prevents waste from penetrating or damaging the sides of the container.
AFTERCARE CREAMS FOR ELECTROLYSIS
Aftercare products have been formulated and extensively tested to calm and soothe the skin after electrolysis. Witch Hazel and/or Aloe Vera gel should be applied immediately after electrolysis to soothe the skin and reduce oedema, calm erythema and prevent infection. Continue applying Aloe Vera gel or witch hazel for 2-3 times a day for as long as you feel necessary, in some cases you can apply an Antibiotic cream (such as Neosporin).
Excessive sweating can cause bacteria to enter open follicles causing a minor infection. NO MAKEUP should be worn for at least 24-48 hours after electrolysis. Your pores are open and can easily become infected.
Aloe Vera
- Instantly decongests and soothes irritated skin
- High cicatrising, refreshing and moisturising power
- Helps to cool down the skin
- Reduce any erythema and oedema.
Witch hazel
- A cool soothing gel, easy to apply and quickly absorbed.
- It is recommended after treatment prior to using the Après creams.
- Renowned for its antiseptic properties, this gel can also be used in a wide variety of applications such as stings, bites etc.
- Witch Hazel is often referred to as Nature’s antiseptic
- Ideal for underarms and bikini areas.
Cosmetic Creams
- Formulated for use immediately after electrolysis or waxing
- Three colour choices: Clear, Original Light Tint and Medium Tint
- Proven formulation with excellent soothing and camouflage properties
- Apres Care is a gentle aftercare product containing an antimicrobial agent
- It is ideal for areas with high bacterial growth, such as the underarms and bikini line.
