FAQ’s

What is electrolysis?

Electrolysis is the only FDA approved method of permanent hair removal. During the procedure, the electrologist slides a tiny probe into the opening of the hair follicle and emits a small amount of electricity at the base of the follicle. This destroys the source of the hair thereby inhibiting the growth of it permanently.

Does electrolysis work?

Yes! Electrolysis is a proven method of permanent hair removal. 

How many treatments will I need? 

This varies on a case by case basis but the problem is usually never eradicated in one treatment.   

Hair must be visible in order to treat it. Hair growth is cyclical and  not all hair is visible above the surface of the skin at one time. The number of treatments needed is determined by the issue and desired outcome. A custom treatment schedule will be developed to meet the needs of each individual. 

How long does this process take?

The process varies from person to person depending on many different factors including:  

-The area being treated; 

-The length of treatment time needed; 

-Your desired outcome;

-How diligently you follow your personalized treatment schedule.

Furthermore, multiple treatments may be required 

What area of the body is commonly treated with electrolysis?

Smaller areas such as the areola, neck and sections of the face (which may include the upper and lower lip, eyebrows, chin, sideburns, hairline, and  between the eyebrows) tend to be the most common areas treated by electrolysis. 

Are there areas you cannot treat?

Treatment should never be done on the inside of the ear or nose or on certain types of skin growths such as warts. Moles require the written consent of a doctor. 

Who is considered ineligible for electrolysis? 

You cannot be treated if you are pregnant, using the drug accutane, or have a pacemaker.  Also, people using medical grade retinol should suspend their use of the product three months prior to treatment. Inform your electrologist of all products being used on the treatment area. You will also want to inform your electrologist if you have a predisposition to keloids, as special care will need to be taken during and after treatment. 

What should I expect on my first visit? 

During your first visit, you will meet with the electrologist to discuss the treatment area. In most  cases the electrologist will be able to treat you immediately. However, in more challenging cases (such as for large areas or a particularly aggressive growth) a treatment schedule will need to be discussed. 

What should I expect after treatment?

Your skin will most likely be red, tender, and in some cases swollen. This varies from person to person as some skin is more sensitive than others.

After treatment care?

It will be important to keep the skin clean for the next 48 hours as it is healing from the treatment. Bacteria from sweat, dirty makeup brushes, towels, and  even unsanitary touching may cause temporary bumps to develop on the skin’s surface. In these cases you will need to inform your electrologist. Witch hazel is an effective and inexpensive solution to keep your skin clean and can be found in most pharmacies. 

Will it hurt?

Yes. People have reported that the procedure feels like a pinch with a momentary sensation of heat. Of course, the feeling varies based on personal pain threshold, the area being treated, and the hormonal state of the individual. For example, women are prone to an increase in pain during menstruation. 

What can I do to alleviate any pain I may feel?

Topical anaesthetic can be applied prior to treatment. Zensa and Emla are both good brands that can be found at most pharmacies. It is best to use a generous amount and wrap with plastic wrap to seal the area which will help it penetrate the skin.  Advil is also widely used to help alleviate some of the pain. Avoiding caffeine and other stimulants is advisable as it can make you more sensitive. 

Why not laser? 

Both electrolysis and laser are effective methods of permanent hair removal but each work best for different types of hair. Laser is more effective on dark, dense, and coarse hair such as pubic, underarm or male facial hair and is not effective on blonde, red, white, grey, or soft and sparse hair such as female facial hair. In some cases a combination of the two can be used to achieve the desired effect. For example, it is common for a person transitioning from male to female to treat their (often darker) facial hair with laser first, and then minimize any lighter hair afterwards with electrolysis.