Everything you need to know about electrolysis technology — from the science behind it to probe selection guidance for professionals.
Electrolysis is recognized by the FDA as the only method of permanent hair removal. Unlike laser or IPL treatments which can only achieve long-term reduction, electrolysis destroys the hair follicle’s ability to regrow — permanently.
The procedure uses a fine probe inserted into the follicle alongside the hair shaft, delivering a small electrical current that disables the follicle. Depending on the modality used, this current is thermolytic (heat-based), galvanic (chemical), or a blend of both.
The quality of the probe is central to the quality of the treatment — which is why the tools you choose matter as much as the technique you use.
Each modality has distinct advantages depending on the client’s hair type, skin sensitivity, and treatment area.
(Shortwave)
Uses high-frequency AC current to generate heat at the probe tip, destroying the follicle through thermal energy. The fastest of the three modalities.
- Fastest treatment speed
- Works with insulated probes for precision
Uses DC current to create a chemical reaction (lye) within the follicle, chemically destroying the germination cells. Most thorough but slowest method.
- Highest permanency rate
- Effective on all skin and hair types
- Slower — suited for targeted areas
Combines galvanic and thermolysis simultaneously — the lye produced by galvanic current is superheated by the AC current for enhanced effectiveness.
- Best of both methods combined
- Effective for coarse or deeply rooted hair
- Popular with experienced practitioners
The right probe depends on your modality, the client’s hair type, and the treatment area. Here’s a quick guide.
Video content from Ballet Tech — technique guides, product overviews, and practitioner insights.
Overview
A complete walkthrough of our full needle
range — types, shanks, gauges, and use
cases explained.
Blend
When to use thermolysis vs. blend
technique — practical guidance for licensed
electrologists.
Client
How to match gauge and needle type to
your client’s hair characteristics and
treatment area.
What is electrolysis?
Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved form of permanent hair removal. It is the science of directly targeting the base of the hair follicle with direct and/or alternating current, thereby eliminating hair regrowth.
How does electrolysis differ from other hair removal techniques?
Unlike shaving, waxing and tweezing – all of which target only the visible part of the hair and do not impact the follicle’s regrowth – effective electrolysis treatments occur at the base of the hair. This means that a growing hair removed with electrolysis will never grow back.
Laser is another common hair removal option, but it is not considered permanent by the FDA. Where laser fails on pigmented skin and light hairs, the effectiveness of electrolysis will remain consistent. Electrolysis can also be performed safely on more intimate areas such as around the eyes and groin.
Why use Ballet probes for electrolysis?
Ballet pioneered single-use one-piece probes in the 1980s when reusable probes were still common in many areas. Our attention to quality, efficiency, and safety set us apart in the industry. We still carry this attitude today.
Ballet is the only major electrolysis manufacturer that focuses entirely on electrolysis probes. This allows us to update our products and our equipment with the highest frequency in the space. Our manufacturing is the most reliable and of the highest standard available.
Where are Ballet probes made?
Since our inception Ballet has been manufactured in South-East France. Using the feedback we collect from electrologists in conjunction with the micro-mechanical expertise of this region of France, we produce a product that is both technical and beautiful.
Where is the name “Ballet” from?
When Ballet first began in the 1980s, our founder Joseph Asch looked for something that captured both technical precision as well as beauty and power. Ballet dance served as an inspiration for us during this time.
History Of Electrolysis Needles
Since its introduction, many changes have been made to the process of electrolysis. Over time, the creation of electrolysis needles has changed through many types, including modified sewing needles, one-piece needles, two-piece needles, tapered needles, and stainless-steel needles.
Developing Ballet Needles
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.
Types of Needles
Ballet developed a range of different electrolysis needles to fit the needs of different clients with differing sensitivities. Different types introduced included Stainless Steel Needles (inexpensive), Gold Needles (for those with stainless steel allergy), and Insulated Needles (for greater comfort and less scabbing).
Advantage Of Insulated Needles
When Ballet Insulated Needles are used in place of normal Stainless-Steel Needles with high frequency current, the discharge of heat is confined to a smaller area, and the risk of surface damage is lower.
Ballet Needles Sizes
Different sizes are available for Ballet needles, varying for different types of hair. Needle size should be selected based on the size of the hair being treated, ranging from a size of 2 to 6 Frequency should also be adjusted, as thinner needle sizes create a hotter treatment. Ballet needles also have three shank sizes to fit all modern epilators.
See the Practitioner Guide for more details
Ballet Needle Design
Every aspect of a Ballet needle is based on extensive research and testing. Needles are also inspected several times to ensure that they meet shape and polish standards. Ballet needles are also micro-polished and have a gently rounded tip in order to ensure smooth insertions.
Ballet Needle Manufacturing
After passing rigorous inspection, Ballet needles are sterilized and packed into hospital quality packaging. In addition, Ballet needles are sterilized using Ethylene Oxide sterilization, which protects Ballet patients from any disease transmission via electrolysis needles.