FAQ's
Why choose electrolysis over other hair removal methods? The FDA and the American Medical Association recognize electrolysis as the only method of permanently removing hair, electrolysis eliminates all unwanted hair permanently for all skin and hair types. Laser hair removal treatments will permanently reduce the total number of body hairs, it will not result in a permanent removal of all hair, so laser hair removal is considered a temporary method and discoloration may result. Shaving, waxing, threading and tweezing can cause ingrown hairs and irritation to the skin while the hair regrows quickly, it may appear inexpensive but cost more due to long term use.
These methods can require a lifetime of maintenance.
Does electrolysis have any side effects on the skin? Immediately following treatment, there may be a temporary redness and swelling, which usually disappears in a couple hours. Depending on the area of the body treated (usually nape, arms or legs) there may be a possible appearance of scabs. Scabs may take 2-3 days to appear, and 2-3 weeks to heal, they will heal and must be allowed to fall off for themselves. This is part of the normal healing process, electrolysis does not have any permanent side effects.
What does electrolysis feel like? I'ts not painful, you'll probably feel a momentary heat sensation or pinch. Discomfort is minimal for most people, but individual tolerances vary. Some areas of the body are much less sensitive than others.
How long will my electrolysis treatment take? Depending on the area you want cleared and the person’s tolerance, it could be a few minutes or more than an hour.
How many treatments will I need? The number of treatments varies for each client, several sessions are necessary for permanent result. Factors such as hair growth cycles, the quantity and coarseness of hair presented, previous use of temporary hair removal methods, heredity, hormones such as PCOS, certain medications and stress influence the treatment length for each individual. The client usually will see results within six months of regular treatments.
How often should I schedule electrolysis treatments? Hairs have differing cycles of growth, many of which are not on the surface of the skin at the same time. Usually reschedule three weeks to a month after a session. Hair will be treated from the early Anagen to the late Catagen stage. Treatment is more effective when the hairs are new, in the early Anagen stage because the hair is at its weakest point. After a couple of months the client will need to come less often for electrolysis, and eventually will not need it. Consistency in maintaining a scheduled treatment will significantly impact results.
Can women have electrolysis treatments during pregnancy? Unwanted hair can be caused by hormonal changes due to pregnancy.
Many health care providers recommend avoiding any electrolysis during pregnancy. Although there have been no reports of thermolysis method causing problems in pregnant women, if you choose to have electrolysis I suggest that you seek the advice from your physician and provide an authorization letter before beginning treatment.
Is there an age limit for electrolysis? There is no ideal age or age limit for electrolysis as long as puberty has been reached, but parental/guardian consent is necessary for anyone under the age of 18.
Can diabetic people have electrolysis treatments? Diabetic people are safe to treat as long as they have the diabetes under control. If you are diabetic and choose to have electrolysis, I suggest that you seek the advice from your physician and provide an authorization letter before beginning treatment. The galvanic method of electrolysis is not recommended.
Post treatment care? Two to three days after treatment the skin is susceptible to minor infection, it is important to properly care for the area. Avoid activity that could irritate the hair follicles such as excessive sweating, tanning and prolonged sun exposure or make-up application.
Keep the area clean, use a mild soap, don't use washcloths, don't touch your skin with dirty hands, apply an after treatment lotion to help seal the area and promote healing (calamine/caladryl, aloe, and witch hazel) are acceptable. Avoid moisturizers.