FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions


+ What is electrolysis?

Electrolysis is a time tested method of permanent hair removal from the face and body areas. It has been performed for over 140 years and has been proven a safe and effective hair removal method. Electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal method that is FDA approved.

During a treatment, an electrologist inserts a very fine probe into the hair follicle alongside the hair shaft. Then the electrolysis device destroys the hair growth cells using one of three modalities. The modalities use a small amount of chemical energy (Galvanic), heat energy (Thermolysis), or both (Blend). The modality used is the preference of the professional electrologist. Finally, the hair is removed harmlessly with forceps.

+ Why should I choose electrolysis over other hair removal methods?

Unlike other hair removal methods, electrolysis eliminates unwanted hair permanently. It also works on a large variety of skin and hair types as well as most areas of the body.

Lasers, waxing, threading, tweezing, shaving and chemical depilatories are all temporary methods of hair removal. These methods may be suitable for one area of the body and unsuitable for another. They may cause skin discoloration and irritation, ingrown hairs, and increase hair growth activity. Some of these methods may appear inexpensive but are more costly due to long term use.

+ What areas of the body can be treated with electrolysis?

Most areas of the body can be treated with electrolysis, including the face, breasts, abdomen, and legs. It works on all skin and hair types.

+ What causes unwanted hair growth?

Hair growth is a result of heredity and hormone levels. Some medications, temporary methods of hair removal, and illnesses can stimulate hair growth. Electrolysis is an option when hair growth is in an area of the body where it may not be desired.

+ How long does each treatment take?

Treatment times range between 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the area of the treatment, the amount of hair you wish to remove, and previous hair removal methods.

+ How many treatments are required?

Most clients return once a week or every other week. The total number of treatment sessions needed to remove the hair from a particular area will vary person to person.

Factors such as hair growth cycles, the quantity and structure of hair presented, previous use of temporary hair removal methods, heredity, hormone function, certain medication and stress influence the treatment program for each individual. It is important to follow the recommended treatment plan to achieve optimum results.

+ How much will treatments cost?

Electrolysis is considered a very cost-effective method of hair removal. The overall cost depends on each individual's recommended treatment schedule.

+ Are the hairs eliminated after one treatment or is regrowth to be expected?

Regrowth or hair that seemingly reappears in the same area that was previously treated does not necessarily occur from the same follicles. An electrologist can only treat hair follicles presently growing hair. Only a certain amount of the several hundred follicles per each square inch of the skin may be growing. The remaining hair follicles may be dormant but could grow hair at any time. Excessive hair growth, known as hirsutism, cannot always be eliminated with one treatment; thus, breaking down the hair growth cells may require additional treatments.

Electrolysis treatment does not cure the cause of excess hair growth. It eliminates the affects of the various causes of hair growth.

+ Does electrolysis treat all hair types?

Electrolysis, unlike laser hair removal, can treat all types of hair including blond, grey, and red hair.

+ Does electrolysis have any side effects on the skin?

Occasionally, a slight reddening of the skin occurs during or immediately after treatment but will only last for a short time. We will provide you with post-treatment instructions to acheive the best results.