Frequently Asked Questions
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How long has Electrolysis been performed?
The first research using electrolysis for the permanent removal of hair began in 1869 in St Louis, Missouri. It was conducted by an ophthalmologist, Dr. Charles Michel, who wanted a safe, effective way to remove ingrown eyelashes which frequently led to blindness. He published his first scientific paper in 1875. the method was soon accepted by the medical community and than adapted for the treatment of excess hair on other parts of the body. From that day until the present, the same basic technique has been used, only greatly improved and modernized.
How does electrolysis work?
A fine sterile filament as thin as a hair is inserted into the hair follicle alongside the hair and a controlled amount of electric current is applied disabling the hair follicle and potential hair growth. The hair is than gently lifted out of the follicle. Depending on the technique used, the electric current destroys the root either by heat or chemical action or in some methods by both at the same time.
Are there different methods of Electrolysis?
There are three recognized modalities, (methods) of electrolysis.
Galvanic: (direct Current) electrolysis - the hair is destroyed by chemical action.
Thermolysis: (high frequency) electrolysis -the hair is destroyed by heat reduction.
Blend: electrolysis - a combination of the above two modalities where the hair root is destroyed by both heat and chemical action at the same time.
All three modalities are safe and effective. Your electrologist will choose the modality which is best suited for you.
Is Electrolysis Permanent?
Electrolysis has been proven to be permanent in over a century of use. Its permanency has been well recognized by knowledgeable physicians and is also testified to by hundreds of scientific articles published in the medical journals. In addition to scientific recognition, there are over a million happy and satisfied men and women who have solved a very personal and embarrassing problem with the help of electrolysis.
Are there other methods of hair removal as effective as Electrolysis?
No. There is absolutely no reputable scientific evidence that shows any other method of hair removal being as safe, effective and permanent as electrolysis for all hair colors and skin tones.
What about laser hair removal?
Lasers have been used for hair removal since the mid 1990's. They are safe in the hands of trained technicians but have several short comings:
- Lasers work well only when a hair is in the anagen, (growing) phase. On some parts of the body, less than 50% of the hairs are in the growing phase.
- Lasers are not effective on grey, blond or red hair
- Lasers are awkward and impractical to use when sculpting/shaping eyebrows and other critical areas.
- Lasers are even less effective on darker or tanned skin
Is Electrolysis safe?
Electrolysis has over a 137 year history of safety and effectiveness. To date there is not one documented case of a significant disease being caused or transmitted by electrolysis.
Modern well trained electrologists utilize the most up-to-date, effective methods of sterilization, disinfection and antisepsis, and follow guidelines set by the American Electrology Association, (AEA) in conjunction with the Center of Disease Control, (CDC). Don't hesitate to ask your electrologist about the scientific methods she uses to guarantee your safety.
Is Electrolysis painful?
Whether there is any discomfort during electrolysis is quite variable depending on a client's tolerance, machine settings, modality used, as well as other factors. During most treatments a definite sensation should be noticed. It has been variously described as a "slight heat", "tingling" or "stinging" sensation. Your electrologist is trained to work within the comfort tolerance of her clients. Don't hesitate to let her know what you are feeling.
Is Electrolysis expensive?
Considering the intense physical effort required of the electrologist, as well as the equipment, office space, insurance, etc., the fees charged by electrologists are thought, by most to be reasonable. Remember, the problem is being dealt with permanently and not just on a short term basis.
Are there any side effects caused by Electrolysis?
Electrolysis like many minor procedures in medicine does have a short healing phase. During this time, there maybe some transient redness or swelling and occasionally some pinpoint scabbing. Your electrologist will advise you regarding what can be expected during the healing phase.
What area of the body can be treated?
Hair can be removed from almost any part of the body. Some common areas for women include the hairline, eyebrows top of the nose, cheeks, side burn area, upper lip, chin, throat, neck, shoulders, back breasts, abdomen, arms, legs, bikini line, hands, feet, toes and fingers. Hair on the eyelashes, inside of the nose, the ear canal is only treated under the supervision of a physician. Hairy moles maybe treated with the written permission from a physician. It is perfectly safe to treat pregnant women, but the breast and abdomen are avoided after the sixth month of pregnancy.
Men often have hair removed from the hairline, beard line, shoulders, back, neck, chest, ears and nose. Electrolysis is very helpful for treating in grown hairs which frequently cause irritation in the beard area.
How long does electrolysis take to achieve permanency?
Electrolysis requires a series of treatments given over a period of time. The length of time varies from person to person and is dependent on many factors. The density and coarseness of the hair, as well as the total are to be treated are very important. How well you tolerate treatments and the consistency of the treatments affect the overall success. The cause of the unwanted hair and the temporary methods of hair removal used previously also affect treatment time. Many hairs will be permanently removed after the first treatment while some hairs will require additional treatments to achieve permanency. Treatments will be more frequent in the beginning and less frequent later on. The overall results, permanent, hair-free, smooth skin is well worth the time spent.
How do I select an Electrologist?
There are many factors that might influence your choice of an electrologist. Many people ask their physician for a referral. Others rely on the recommendation of a friend. Many consult the telephone directory under "Electrolysis" or "Permanent Hair Removal" to find an electrologist in their area... To be assured of quality service, determine if your electrologist is licensed, (where required by law), nationally certified, a member of state and/ or national professional associations and a participant in continuing education. In the final analysis, decide if you feel comfortable and confident with the electrologist you have chosen since electrolysis requires a series of treatments over a period of time.
Why should I choose Electrolysis to solve my unwanted hair problem?
Time is one factor for choosing electrolysis in today's fast-paced world. Dealing with unwanted hair in a temporary way is tedious, costly, and never ending, permanent hair removal frees you from this daily routine. Electrolysis also improves your physical appearance and self-image, lessens anxiety caused by the unwanted hair and helps you feel more attractive and socially acceptable. It is a choice that will enhance your own natural beauty and self- confidence.
Last but not least, electrolysis has been proven safe and effective over many years of use and is recognized by physicians, FDA and the American Medical Association. You can be confident that permanent hair removal will change your life in a positive and lasting way.
