Frequently Asked Questions

What is electrolysis?

​

Electrolysis is the only method of permanent hair removal approved by the FDA.

 

Using state-of-the-art technology, a small amount of electrical current is gently applied to the base of the hair follicle. This process destroys the cells responsive for hair growth, which permanently prevents the hair follicle from growing back. 

 

Electrolysis is used to describe three different modalities of hair removal, all of which will provide effective, permanent results. I generally use the Thermolysis technique, as I find this to be the most comfortable for clients, the fasted technique, and the technique with the least amount of contraindications. That said, I will choose the best modality for you based on the type and location of the hair being treated. 

 

• Galvanic electrolysis creates a chemical reaction in the hair follicle that destroys the hair growth cells. This modality takes longer to treat each individual hair, and is therefore used less often on its own (see Blend below). 

 

• Thermolysis (also called short-wave) produces heat which destroys the hair growth cells in the follicle.
   

• The Blend method combines galvanic current with thermolysis current. The heat from Thermolysis makes the chemical reaction more efficient.

​

During your appointment, I will insert a very fine, sterile probe into the natural opening of the hair follicle alongside the hair shaft. I then apply a tiny amount of electrical current to destroy the hair growth cells, and then gently remove the hair with tweezers.

​

How long are the appointments?

 

The frequency and length of your appointments depends on the size of the area being treated and the progress of your treatment. In general, treatments on a particular area are longest and most frequent at the beginning. Treatment length and frequency then tapers off as fewer and fewer hairs remain. Appointments can last anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour or more.

​

Is electrolysis painful?

​

Electrolysis is well-tolerated by most individuals. You may feel some discomfort when the hair is treated, often described as a slight stinging or pinching sensation. This sensation is very quick, lasting only as long as the hair is being treated. We can discuss ways to make your treatments more comfortable during the free consultation.

​

Are all hairs eliminated in one treatment or is regrowth to be expected?​

 

Hairs have differing cycles of growth. Since individual hairs are in different phases of the cycle at any given time, multiple treatments are required to remove all of the unwanted hair.

 

Excessive hair growth, also known as hirsutism, can range from fine, vellus hair to dark, coarse hair on the face and body. Destroying the hair growth cells on deep, coarse hairs may require more than one treatment. Please note that certain hormonal disorders can affect the outcome of treatment. 

 

Based on a personal consultation, I will design a treatment plan that addresses your specific hair removal needs.

​

Can electrolysis be done anywhere on the body?

​

That's one of the amazing things about electrolysis: it works on all skin and hair colors and types. It can be performed anywhere on the body, with the exception of inside the nose and deep inside the ears.

​

Can women receive electrolysis treatments during pregnancy?

​

Electrolysis can be performed on pregnant women during their second and third trimesters using the Thermolysis modality; however I require written medical authorization from your OB prior to treatment. Please let me know you’re pregnant prior to treatments.

​

Is there anyone who can't receive electrolysis treatments?

​

There are certain contraindications for electrolysis. During your free consultation, we will go over your health history to determine if any contraindications exist. In some cases, I may request that you obtain medical authorization from your doctor prior to treatment.