FAQ
What is electrolysis?
Electrolysis is the only FDA approved method of permanent hair removal. Hair germ cells (which cause hair growth) are destroyed by inserting a fine probe into the hair follicle and delivering a small amount of current to the base of the hair. Eventually, the hair germ cells are completely destroyed and the follicle will be unable to produce hair, resulting in permanency!
What causes excess hair growth?
There are many factors that could be contributing to excess hair growth. Hormones are a major cause of hair growth, especially on the chin and upper lip. Genes, hormonal imbalances, menopause, medications, and even stress are all things that can cause a change in hair growth.
What are the side effects?
Everybody responds differently to electrolysis. Depending on skin sensitivity, some may have temporary swelling and redness while others have no reaction at all. Any redness or swelling typically subsides within a few hours of your treatment. I give tips on caring for your skin post-treatment during the consultation and as needed.
Is it painful?
Most first-time clients ask this questions during the consultation, and most leave saying “that wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be!” There is a sensation that feels like a quick pinch of heat, but it should always be tolerable. Things like stress, menstruation, and illness can increase sensitivity so it’s best to schedule appointments when you’re feeling your best. I’m able to customize the settings so your treatment is comfortable AND effective. There are also topical creams available to help decrease the sensation of the treatment.
Why does it require a series of treatments?
There are millions of hair follicles all over the body; luckily they’re not all active at the same time! Hair grows in cycles and it can take weeks for a hair to reach the surface of the skin. Electrologists can only treat a follicle when the hair is visible, so multiple treatments are required to treat everything. In cases where regrowth occurs, the hair will become lighter and finer until the follicle has been permanently destroyed.
What’s the difference between electrolysis and laser?
Electrolysis and laser are both wonderful for excess hair growth, but I believe they each have their place. Laser tends to work best with dark hairs on light skin. Laser doesn’t detect grey, blonde, or red hairs though, and doesn’t always work well on darker skin tones. Laser is commonly misconceived as being permanent hair removal but it’s actually only a permanent hair reduction. Electrolysis is still the only FDA approved method for permanent hair removal and works on all skin and hair colors and types!
Is it expensive?
Electrolysis can be quite an investment up front depending on the situation, but that’s exactly what it is- an investment! Think of all the time and money spent on waxing, threading, plucking, depilatories, and bleaching. These are temporary methods, and you will continue paying for them while accomplishing nothing long-term. They are also harsh on the skin, and can even encourage hair growth. Electrolysis is permanent. We can work together to find a treatment schedule that works for your needs and budget.
Where can I get electrolysis done?
Electrolysis can treat hair just about everywhere, on both men and women! Popular areas include the chin, upper lip, eyebrows, side of the face, underarms, bikini, arms, legs, fingers and toes, breasts, abdomen, back, hairline; the list goes on. The only hairs I can’t treat are the ones inside the nose, inside the ears, and eyelashes. **I am unable to accept new clients looking for leg hair, bikini hair, and back hair removal at this time.**
Why do I need a consultation?
The consultation is very important to both the electrologist and the client, and to the success of your treatments. During your consultation, we will go over a few things including your medical history, your skin and hair condition, and get to know each other. It’s helpful to determine what’s causing the hair growth and any conditions that could interfere with your results. It’s also a great opportunity for you to ask questions, learn about the electrolysis process, and learn what you should expect from your treatments!