Electrolysis FAQs

Electrology is the science of permanent hair removal. Employing cutting-edge technology, a precise amount of electricity is delicately administered to the root of the hair follicle, effectively neutralizing its ability to regenerate.

The term ‘electrolysis’ encompasses various methods aimed at achieving permanent hair removal, tracing its origins back to 1875 when it first emerged as a pioneering solution. By branding the process, it became synonymous with the concept of permanent hair removal.

In practice, an electrologist employs a fine needle, carefully inserted into the follicle’s natural opening alongside the hair shaft, leveraging a minute electrical current to eradicate the hair growth cells.

Modern medical electrolysis devices deploy either chemical or heat energy to achieve the same goal of obliterating hair growth cells. The choice of modality typically lies with the electrologist’s professional discretion.

Today, three primary modalities fall under the umbrella of electrolysis:

• Galvanic or chemical electrolysis initiates a chemical reaction within the follicle, effectively eliminating hair growth cells. This method finds extensive application, often utilizing multiple needles simultaneously for enhanced efficiency.
• Thermolysis, or short-wave, harnesses heat to destroy hair growth cells within the follicle. It can be executed via two approaches: the flash method, utilizing high-intensity current for shorter durations, or employing lower intensity currents over longer periods.
• The blend method synergizes galvanic and thermolysis currents, enhancing the chemical reaction within the follicle to effectively eliminate hair growth cells.

Electrolysis is the only hair removal method that offers truly permanent results and is the sole treatment approved by the FDA for permanent hair removal.

Professionally performed electrolysis offers permanent hair removal with unparalleled results, effective for the widest range of skin and hair types.

While laser hair removal is often compared to electrolysis, it is considered a temporary method and lacks long-term safety evaluations for skin and health. Waxing, threading, and tweezing can lead to ingrown hairs, discoloration, and increased hair growth activity. Depilatories and shaving may irritate the skin and require frequent maintenance as hair regrows quickly. Although these methods might seem inexpensive initially, their long-term use can be costly and inconvenient.

Electrolysis works on most areas of the body, providing smooth, sleek, healthy-looking skin. No other solution offers such universal effectiveness and success.

Yes, electrologists adhere to stringent infection control standards. The American Electrology Association has established guidelines based on the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC).

The number of treatments varies for each client. Sessions can range from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the treatment area.

Factors such as hair growth cycles, hair quantity and structure, prior use of temporary hair removal methods, heredity, hormone function, certain medications, and stress all influence the treatment plan. Following the recommended treatment plan is crucial for achieving optimal results.

The cost of electrolysis treatments depends on several factors, including the amount of hair to be removed, the size of the treatment area, and the location of the service.

To achieve the best results, follow your electrologist’s recommendations for scheduling appointments. Treatments may be more frequent for areas that have been waxed or tweezed compared to those that have been shaved.

Excessive hair growth, known as hirsutism, can range from fine vellus hair to dark, coarse hair on the face and body. Deep, coarse hairs cannot always be eliminated in a single treatment, and breaking down the hair growth cells may require multiple sessions. After a personal and confidential consultation, your electrologist will design a treatment plan tailored to your specific hair removal needs.

Hair grows in different cycles, meaning not all hairs are visible on the skin’s surface simultaneously. A hair follicle produces hair from the blood supply and eventually discards it through shedding. This continuous process of growth, rest, and replacement is known as the hair growth cycle. This cycle repeats until the hair stops being produced.

Electrolysis treatments can sting, but individual tolerances vary widely. Even those who are most sensitive should find the treatments manageable. The sensation is brief and quickly subsides.

Immediately after treatment, slight redness may occur, varying by individual. With the latest technology, electrolysis is now more comfortable and effective than ever. Your electrologist will provide detailed post-treatment instructions and personalized care, ensuring you receive the best possible attention from a skilled hair removal professional.

Electrolysis is effective on all skin and hair types and can be used on most facial and body areas, including the eyebrows, chin, upper and lower lip, jawline and sides of the face, breasts and underarms, abdomen, bikini line, legs, and back. During a personal and confidential consultation, your electrologist will create a treatment plan tailored to your specific hair removal needs.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause unwanted hair growth. Electrolysis can be safely performed on any normal skin, including that of pregnant women. However, we recommend consulting your physician before starting treatment.

Electrolysis can be performed on most moles, depending on local licensing regulations. Your electrologist may require written approval from your physician before proceeding.

Permanent hair removal through electrolysis has significantly advanced since its inception in 1875. Modern computer technology allows electrologists to work with greater speed and comfort. Today’s epilators operate much faster, using current timings in thousandths of a second compared to the longer applications of the past. Additionally, intensity settings can now be precisely modulated. The instruments and equipment in a contemporary electrologist’s office reflect these advancements, making the process more efficient and comfortable.

Modern electrolysis treatments have evolved, utilizing three original modalities. The galvanic modality (true electrolysis) still chemically decomposes hair follicle cells. The thermolysis modality (high frequency, shortwave) continues to destroy hair-growing cells with heat. The blend modality combines both galvanic and high frequency methods to disable the hair follicle.

Electrolysis treatments vary in sensation depending on timing and intensity. Electrologists can select from three different treatment methods, each offering varying levels of comfort while ensuring effectiveness and permanence. Your electrologist will tailor a treatment plan to meet your specific needs.

The type of probe used also impacts comfort. Today, there are various probe options available, such as insulated, non-insulated, one-piece, two-piece, stainless steel, and gold-plated. Your electrologist will choose the most suitable probe based on your hair growth type and skin, ensuring you receive comfortable and high-quality treatments.