ELECTROLYSIS FAQs
What is electrolysis?
Electrology is the science of permanent hair removal.
Using state-of-the-art technology, a minute amount of electricity is gently applied to the base of the hair follicle. This process destroys the hair growth tissue over time. Therefore, the regenerative ability of the hair follicle is permanently eliminated. Multiple treatments are required to achieve this.
How does electrolysis work?
A small probe/needle is inserted into the hair follicle in the skin where the hair is growing. Current is then delivered to the follicle to destroy the hair stem cells that make the hair. The hair is then removed with tweezers.
How do I prepare for treatment?
If you choose to have electrolysis, then you must discontinue any method of temporary hair removal for about a week before treatment and resort to clipping the hairs until two days before treatment. With electrolysis, closely spaced treatments are necessary to treat the emerging hairs. As the hair growth lessens, the treatments get shorter and farther apart until the hairs no longer regrow. For pain management it is advised to avoid caffeine products for several hours prior to treatment. This includes coffee, tea, soda, chocolate. If necessary, you may purchase a topical numbing cream to apply 30 minutes prior to your appointment.
How many treatments are required?
The number of treatments necessary varies with each client. Treatment sessions can range from 15 minutes to more than an hour depending on the area being treated. Factors such as hair growth cycles, the quantity and structure of hair presented, previous use of temporary hair removal methods, heredity, hormone function, certain medications, and stress, influence the treatment program for each individual. Consider a commitment of one year of consistent treatments to achieve your desired results.
Are all hairs eliminated in one treatment or is regrowth to be expected?
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 with one treatment, thus, breaking down the hair growth cells will require additional treatments.
Does electrolysis have any side effects on the skin?
Immediately following treatment there might be slight redness which varies with each individual. People of Color may experience some pigmentation in the treatment area, dependent on their heredity. All precautions are taken to ensure minimal pigmentation occurs.
What about scarring?
There is always a risk when any invasive procedure is done on the human body, however the risks are very small with electrolysis as long as the electrologist is well trained and experienced. Immediately after treatment, you should experience a tiny red lesion at each treated follicle much like an insect bite. This lesion will disappear shortly after treatment and the area will return to normal. If there is continued redness for several days or visible scabbing, especially on the face, please report this to the electrologist. The solution could be as simple as changing the settings or changing the type of electrode because of a client’s allergy to metal. Scarring is uncommon but not noteworthy.
Can women begin or have electrolysis treatments during pregnancy?
Unwanted hair can be caused by hormonal changes brought on by pregnancy. We suggest that you seek the advice of your physician before beginning treatment. If you are a current client and become pregnant, we can alter the Blend Method to the Thermolysis Method which is a heat only modality that only creates pinpoint heat at the tip of the needle. There is no current completing a circuit in the body and is completely safe during pregnancy. However, we always advise speaking with your physician before continuing.
Can hairs be removed from moles?
Electrolysis can be performed in most moles, where States allow it. At Integrity Skin Care & Wellness I require written approval from your physician.
What is the minimum age for electrolysis treatment?
At Integrity Skin Care & Wellness, I require children to be at least 15 years old and accompanied by their adult guardian.