Frequently Asked Questions

Electrology is the science of permanent hair removal. Using state-of-the-art technology, the electrologist inserts a very fine probe into the natural opening of the hair follicle. A small amount of current is then applied to destroy the hair growth cells. This process destroys the hair growth tissue. Therefore, the regenerative ability of the hair follicle is permanently eliminated.

The first research involving electrolysis for permanent hair removal began in 1869 in St. Louis, Missouri. It was conducted by an ophthalmologist, Dr. Charles Michel, who was looking for a safe, effective way to remove ingrown eyelashes which often led to blindness. After publishing a medical paper on his method in 1875, the technique was accepted for treatment on other parts of the body. Though the technique and equipment have greatly improved, the same basic method is still in use today

A trained electrologists inserts a tiny metal probe into each hair follicle. A small amount of electrical current in then delivered to the probe using a sophisticated electronic device. Depending on the method chosen by the electrologist, the electric current destroys the hair root by heat, chemical action or a combination of both.

Yes, there are three recognized methods. All three are safe and effective. Your electrologist will know which is best for you: Galvanic: Direct electrical current is applied to stimulate a chemical action that destroys the hair. Thermolysis: High frequency electrical current is used to create heat that destroys the hair. Blend: A combination of the two methods described above is used at the same time.

Electrolysis is the only method of permanent hair removal recognized by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and its permanency is further supported by hundreds of scientific articles published in medical literature. Of course, there are also millions of satisfied customers who can attest to the permanency and benefits of electrolysis.

No. Electrolysis is the only method of safe, effective and permanent hair removal for all hair colors and skin types recognized by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Medical Association (AMA).

Laser have been used for hair removal since the mid-1990’s. They are safe in the hands of trained technicians, but they have several shortcomings: Laser hair removal is recognized as a permanent hair reduction by the FDA. The results are fast and long lasting, but not permanent. Indeed, many customers experience complete regrowth of hair on their treated areas in the years following their last treatment. Lasers are not effective on gray, blond or red hair. Lasers are less effective on individuals with darker or tanned skin. Lasers are awkward and impractical to use when sculpting/shaping eyebrows and other critical areas. Lasers work well only when the hair is in the anagen (growing) phase. On some parts of the body, less than 50% of the hairs are in the growing phase.

Electrolysis has been proven safe over a period of nearly 150 years, Modern, well trained electrologists use the most up-to-date, effective methods of sterilization, desinfection and antisepsis, while following guidelines set up by a major electrolysis organization in conjunction with the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Don’t hesitate to ask your electrologists about the stringent methods she uses to ensure your safety.

For your protection, we follow universal precautions and practices for sterilization and procedures set forth by the American Electrology Association (AEA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Association for Practitioners in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and use only pre-sterilized and pre-packaged disposable probes.

During treatment you will feel a sensation described variously as ‘tingling’, ‘slight heat’ or ‘stinging.’ This varies according to your individual pain tolerance, the method used, machine settings and other factors. Another factor of comfort is the type of probe used. There are now a variety of probes to choose from: insulated, non-insulated, one-piece, two-piece, stainless steel, and gold-plated. Your electrologist will determine the best option for your type of hair growth and skin, and can make adjustments to maximize your comfort.

Electrolysis costs depend on a lot of factors including: how much hair needs to be removed, the size of area being treated, and where you get your services performed. Electrolysis requires specialized training and considerable physical effort during each session by the skilled electrologist, not to mention sophisticated equipment, office space and more. When all of this is taken into account, most clients consider the fees charged to be reasonable, especially when they add up the cost of endless years of temporary hair removal products and services. Remember, electrolysis is an investment in you and a lifetime of looking and feeling your best.

Like many minor procedures in medicine, electrolysis includes a short healing phase. During this time, there may be some redness or swelling and occasionally some pinpoint scabbing. The latest technology has made electrolysis more comfortable and effective than ever before. Your electrologist will provide you with post treatment instructions and the personal attention you need. You are assured of the best care from a skilled hair removal professional.

Electrolysis can remove hair from almost any part of the body. Some common areas for women are: the eyebrows, upper and lower lip, sideburns, chin, neck, breasts, abdomen, bikini area, arms, legs, fingers and toes. It is safe for pregnant women to be treated but usually not recommended in the breast area after the sixth month due to increased tenderness. Popular treatment areas for men are the back, neck, chest, ears, eyebrows and the hairline.

Electrolysis can be performed in most moles where licensing regulations allow it. Your electrologist may require written approval from your physician.

Unwanted hair can be caused by hormonal changes brought on by pregnancy. Electrolysis can be performed on any normal skin, including pregnant women. It is safe for pregnant women to be treated but usually not recommended in the breast area after the sixth month due to increased tenderness. We suggest that you seek the advice of your physician before beginning treatment.

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 medication and stress influence the treatment program for each individual. It takes a Series. One of the most important elements in achieving successful destruction of the hair follicle is the continuity of treatments. Permanent results are best achieved by faithful participation of each patient in a planned program that has been tailored to their individual needs.

Hairs have differing cycles of growth, many of which are not visible on the surface of the skin at the same time. The follicle produces the hair from the blood supply, and discards it eventually through shedding. The process of growth, rest and replacement is known as the hair growth cycle. The sequence of events is repeated constantly until a hair ceases to be formed.

Permanent hair removal using electrolysis has come a long way since its beginnings in 1875. Today's computer technology enables the electrologist to work with more speed and comfort. Epilators are much quicker, utilizing current timings of thousandths of a second over the longer current applications of the past, plus, intensity settings can now be modulated to varying proportions. The instruments and equipment used in a contemporary electrologist's office are just part of the changes that have occurred in the electrolysis industry.

Simple. Electrolysis is the only method proven to permanently remove unwanted hair and it works for all hair colors and all skin types. It’s a fact backed by more than a century of medical studies an millions of satisfied clients. Once you have permanently rid yourself of that unwanted hair, you’ll enjoy the self-confidence that comes with looking and feeling your best. The only question you may still have will be, “Why didn’t I seek electrolysis treatment sooner?”