Electrolysis – Frequently Asked Questions

Question – What causes unwanted hair? Answer – Causes may be, normal (puberty, pregnancy, and menopause) and abnormal hormonal changes (malfunctioning endocrine glands), due to genetic predisposition or to an acquired endocrine illness which affects the normal hormonal balance within the body. Some surgical procedures, medications e.g.; steroids and birth control pills, shock, stress, and eating disorders can also effect the normal hormonal balance in the body. Some temporary hair removal methods can also stimulate and accelerate unwanted hair growth.Question – Does electrolysis work? Answer – Most definitely yes. Electrolysis has proven to be the only safe, permanent hair removal method for over 128 years. It has been the treatment of choice by both males and females of all ages. There can be no further hair growth when the full target area of the hair follicle has been successfully destroyed. The client must follow and complete a treatment program, to be included among the many satisfied clients.Question – What is the target area? Answer – It is the area within a follicle that contains the hair growth cells, the most rapidly dividing cells in the body, that must be destroyed to prevent another hair growing in that follicle.

Question – How does electrolysis work? Answer – Electrolysis is achieved by sliding and positioning a fine needle into the natural opening of the hair follicle, a minute electrical current is emitted causing the destruction of the hair production area, usually referred to as the “target area”. The loosened hair is then removed with forceps (tweezers).

There are three modalities used in electrolysis:

Electrolysis – uses a galvanic current (direct current) causing a chemical destruction of the hair follicles’ target area.

Thermolysis – uses a high frequency current (alternating current) coagulating or desiccating the target area.

The blend – uses galvanic and high frequency currents, these currents used sequentially or together enhance the effects of each other to destroy the target area.

All three modalities, applied with skill and precision, achieve permanent removal of hair.

Question – Will more hair grow? Answer – If the destruction of the hair producing cells is complete, another hair cannot grow in that particular hair follicle. However, in the future, if hormonal changes continue, normal vellus (downy) hairs growing in untreated follicles, may be stimulated, and develop into full terminal hairs requiring further electrolysis treatments.

Question – How many treatments are required? Answer – Numerous factors determine the successful number and length of treatments required.

•A private consultation will identify some of these factors e.g. the skill of the electrologist, underlying health problems, medications, area of hair growth, extent of unwanted hair, stage of hair growth, moisture content and sensitivity of skin, etc. etc.

•A series of regular treatments is essential to achieve success.

•No two outcomes are identical.

•A treatment program, mutually agreed upon, will maximize satisfactory results.

Question – How much does it cost? Answer – The cost depends on the number and length of treatments required. The permanent cosmetic enhancement by electrolysis is an affordable investment.

Question – Does it hurt? Answer – Slight discomfort may be experienced. This varies with each individual, and treatment area. For extremely sensitive areas, a topical anesthetic is available.

Question – Is electrolysis safe? Answer – Yes electrolysis is safe, provided the strict regimen of infection control and aseptic technique is conscientiously practiced. Single-use sterile disposable needles are essential. Biologically monitored steam sterilization of all instruments is essential. Universal precautions should be in routine practice.

Electrolysis – Frequently Asked Questions

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