Frequently Asked Questions
What is electrolysis?
By definition, electrolysis is the process by which electric currents pass through a substance to effect a chemical change. For the purpose of hair removal, the Electrologist places a small wire filament (roughly the size of the hair we are removing) into the hair follicle and the current, along with the saline content in the hair follicle creates a chemical reaction and renders the hair unable to regrow. This process is known as Galvanic. There are two other ways to achieve the desired results. The use of heat (thermolysis) is using heat to get the result we desire. There is a third way (modality), and that is using both Galvanic and Thermolysis together, this is known as the blend.
Is electrolysis painful?
This question can be difficult to answer as each person has a different threshold for pain and discomfort. You may feel a buzzing just under the skin, a pin prick, or increased heat. All these are normal and even expected. It has been compared to tweezing of the hair. Throughout treatment, I like to keep an open dialogue about how you are feeling. There are some adjustments that can be made, but please remember that the goal is to treat the hair in a way that it will not grow back. We will work together to find a balance.
What areas of the body can be treated?
All areas of the body can be treated. Some common areas are chin, upper lip, brows, back, shoulders, breasts, abdomen, bikini line, underarms, and sideburns.
Why on earth do I have all this hair?
Excess hair occurs for many reasons. Heredity, meaning you were born predisposed to excess hair. Hormonal changes, both natural and synthetic, meaning puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Synthetic hormones include but are not limited to birth control, and other hormone replacement therapies (HRT). Our bodies create hormones and sometimes those hormone producing glands may not function properly, causing excess hair to grow. Before we get into treatment, we will have a conversation about your excess hair growth.
Is electrolysis safe?
Electrolysis has been used for well over a hundred years and there is very little risk. When you come to me for treatment, my promise to you is that the treatment area will be cleaned between each client, including the machine I use, all cords and the furniture in the procedure room. The wire filament is single use and is sterile. The tweezers are soaked in an enzyme solution and run through a heat sterilizer much like what dentists use.