WHAT IS ELECTROLYSIS?
Electrolysis involves the insertion of a fine pre-sterilized, disposable probe into the hair follicle. The skin is not punctured or harmed. A slight amount of current is then applied through the probe. Effective treatment of the mid and lower follicle accomplishes permanent hair removal by destroying the dermal papilla. When the dermal papilla is entirely de-activated, no further hair growth can occur. If in an initial treatment a hair is only damaged, an undernourished weaker hair will grow. This hair will be finer and more susceptible to treatment.
WHAT ABOUT LASER HAIR REMOVAL?
A lot of people ask, "Well, isn't laser permanent? They often advertise that it is permanent." The FDA considers lasers to be permanent hair reduction. It cannot completely destroy the follicle, nor is it painless. Laser treatments only cripple the follicles, allowing for a period of decreased growth, thus reducing the size and thickness of the hair in the treated area. Lasers are not ideal for all skin or hair colors, nor are they capable of selectively targeting individual hairs. The only method of permanent hair removal, as stated by the FDA, is electrolysis. For additional information on lasers, I suggest that you visit the FDA's site.
HAS TECHNOLOGY CHANGED MUCH OVER THE YEARS?
Since its origins in 1875, electrolysis, like most technologies, has changed dramatically. Today's epilators are essentially microprocessors that deliver bursts of energy measured in thousandths of a second to eliminate hair. I can modulate both time and intensity of my epilator settings to match all clients' tolerance levels. Speed and comfort are synonymous with modern electrolysis.
WHAT AREAS ARE COMMONLY TREATED WITH ELECTROLYSIS?
Unwanted hair can be removed from most body areas. The following are the most common treatment areas for men and women, including teens.
​
-
Women: eyebrow, upper lip, chin, cheeks, breasts, tummy, arms, underarms, legs, and bikini.
-
Men: hairline, brow, nose (avoiding nostrils), outer ear, ear lobe, beard, neck, back, shoulders, chest, and stomach area, legs, buttocks, hands, and toes.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED?
The number of treatments required will vary with each person and according to factors such as the amount of hair in the treatment area, the sensitivity of the skin, medication and hormone balance, and the previous hair removal methods, to name a few. It is essential to know that we can only permanently treat the hairs that are currently growing. We cannot know how many hairs will eventually grow or when your body will stimulate new growth.
It is therefore imperative that electrolysis is performed upon the detection of re-growth. If left untreated, hair will reconstitute itself to its original diameter and depth. Therefore, once a treatment program begins, you need to be consistent and committed to your predetermined treatment schedule.
Most clients find that weekly sessions beginning at thirty minutes to one hour work best. Eventually, as the hair is removed, moving to 15-minute touch-up treatments on a less frequent basis is sufficient. But, again, the more closely you adhere to a treatment schedule, the sooner you will become hair-free forever.
DOES ELECTROLYSIS HURT?
Today, most of my clients describe the sensation of electrolysis as "quick warmth." However, some areas may be more sensitive than others, and you may feel more sensitive at certain times of the month. With today's digital equipment, adjustments can be made to the treatment settings to create a more comfortable experience. Over-the-counter products are also available to desensitize a treatment area for those who are more sensitive. Taking your favorite pain reliever 30 minutes before an appointment can also lessen the sensation of treatment.
ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS TO ELECTROLYSIS?
You may see slight redness and/or swelling, but this is normal, and these mild symptoms will lessen anywhere from ½ hour to a few hours. After hair is treated, it leaves an open follicle that is prone to bacteria. Therefore, keeping the area clean and avoiding makeup or harsh products on the site for 24 hours is advised. Before and aftercare instructions will be provided at your initial consultation or treatment.
CAN PREGNANT WOMEN HAVE ELECTROLYSIS?
The hormonal changes brought on by pregnancy can frequently be the cause of unwanted hair. Electrolysis can be performed on anyone with normal skin, but I suggest that you get the advice of your attending physician before beginning a treatment regime.