Electrolysis FAQ's

Q.  How long will electrolysis take
A. Treatment depends on how much hair is involved and the patient’s compliance with the needed scheduling. This treatment is a commitment. In order to receive permanent results consistency is key. The process may seem lengthy at first but with regularity of keeping up with scheduled appointments, there is an end in sight. 

Q. How does electrolysis work?
  A. The electrologist inserts a fine probe needle into the hair follicle and releases electric current. This current creates heat and/or chemical reactions to destroy the follicle's capacity to produce another hair.

Q. Does it always work?
  A. Yes, but not always on the first try. To best understand this it helps to understand how hair grows. Hair grows in three stages, falls out and restarts the growth cycle. Treatment is best applied to the beginning stages of hair growth to do the most damage in destroying the germ cells that create hair. Unfortunately there is no way to know what phase of growth the individual hairs are in until treatment has been applied. This is why it’s important to return for treatments frequently.

Q. What can I expect in terms of visible skin reaction to the treatments?
  A. Some may experience a mild sunburn like appearance, scabbing, redness, and or hyperpigmentation can occur and last for hours to weeks on end depending upon the intensity of your treatment. Long treatments of high heat on densely packed areas can or may cause scarring of skin tissue. !!! Never pick scabs !!! Once the healing process is complete, the scabs will slough off on their own. 

Q. Does it hurt?
  A.  Possibly! Depending upon one’s pain tolerance, there can be some discomfort during the treatment but most people find it tolerable. There are numbing creams that can be applied before your treatment which can ease the discomfort. Your electrologist can recommend the best over the counter numbing creams for your service.

Q. What is permanent hair removal?
  A. Electrolysis is the only FDA approved method of permanent hair removal. Some lasers offer good results of reduction however, electrolysis is the only way to remove hair permanently and safely.  Electrolysis treats the hair root to prevent re-growth of that particular hair.  The electrologist will treat one hair at a time with a slight impulse from the epilator machine.

Q. What should I do for aftercare?
  A. You are likely to notice some slight redness and some swelling or slight welting in the area.  This is normal! A cold compress can be applied for 10-15 minutes immediately following a treatment which will help reduce the irritation, swelling, and inflammation that can occur. The treatment area should be kept clean with mild soaps and antibacterial creams/ointments should be applied for up to 3 days after treatment for best healing results. No exfoliation or harsh products should be used while the area is healing and No strenuous activities or sun exposure in the area for 48hrs.

Q. Is there scarring?
  A. Scarring is a problem that is not likely to happen if you follow the aftercare instructions and keep the area clean. Remember, if scabbing should occur, Do Not pick scabs and leave the area alone in its healing process.  Picking can cause pitting. It’s your responsibility to follow aftercare properly for best healing results.

Q. Will I bleed?
  A. Small bleeding can occur but is rare. Sometimes bleeding can occur when a vessel wall is punctured however, if this occurs during treatment, your electrologist will make sure the bleeding stops before the end of your appointment. Arnica can be used to heal and prevent bruising of skin tissue. 

Q. How many treatments will I need?
  A. Generally, areas can be cleared within six (6) months and in some cases up to two (2) years, if the client is dedicated to completing regular treatments.  Because there are three different growing cycles, some hair remains hidden at any given time, and it may take several months to a year to completely clear an area.  The number of total treatments will vary from area to area and person to person.

Q. New growth?
  A. Yes. Some people develop more active hair follicles with age. Removing all your offensive hair at age 20 or 30 will make follow up visits much shorter and less frequent but probably won’t eliminate the need completely.

Q. What should I do about noticeable hair problems between treatments?
   A. Stop all dermaplaning, tweezing and waxing immediately. It can distort your follicles and may even nourish stronger, coarser hair in the wounded area as it heals.  Cutting the hair with scissors is the best method. Bleaching can work, but doing so may make it difficult for your electrologist to see the hair and hair roots may also become compromised.  Shaving will work too however your electrologist will need the hair shaft long enough to grasp.

Q. Can I go out in the sun after a treatment?
   A. Direct exposure to the sun is not advised for treated areas.  It can cause freckling that could take up to 6-12 months to fade.  If you do need to go out in the sun, try to avoid direct exposure within 48 hours of a treatment.  Please wear a hat or use  sunscreen for protection.

Q. Is electrolysis expensive?  How much will it cost me overall?
  A. People compare electrolysis to a spa, salon, or barbershop visit; however, other treatments for hair removal are only temporary methods and will be a never-ending process. If you have electrolysis done, the cost will be much less in the long run since it is permanent and can be completed within six (6) to twenty-four (24) months.  It’s an inexpensive way to solve unwanted hair problems in a confidential and easy way. Most people are happier with permanent results.