Frequently Asked Questions:

How does electrolysis work?
Is the procedure painful?
How long does the process take?
What causes excess hair?
How costly is the procedure?

Answers:

How does electrolysis work?

Electrolysis works like this: A tiny wire probe is inserted into the natural opening of the hair follicle until it reaches the root.  A measured amount of energy is applied to the wire filament.  This energy is not ordinary electricity, but it is a high frequency, short wave current much like that from a radio transmitter.  This energy causes a short burst of warmth to develop within the hair follicle.  This warmth coagulates the cells at the hair root, thus preventing that particular hair from ever growing again. The hair shaft is then removed.  Occasionally, a few cells in the root will remain.  In this case, a small new hair may grow again.
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Is the procedure painful?

The level of pain involved in electrolysis is extremely minimal.  The sensation feels like a momentary warm tingle.  To further minimize this sensation, topical anesthesia is applied to the area by the electrologist. (Return to top)

How long does the process take? 

Once the electrolysis has begun, the process can take anywhere from two to eight months for completion.  The length of time necessary to remove unwanted body hair depends on several factors.  Since hair grows in cycles, a percentage of the hair is not apparent to the skin until the complete cycle ends.  The shape of the hair follicle is another factor when considering the time involved in the process.  This is because a straight probe cannot reach the base of a curved follicle, which occurs from prior waxing or tweezing by a patron.  A curved or distorted hair follicle causes the hair to become coarser and more deeply rooted, making permanent hair removal more difficult.  With successive treatments and discontinuation of tweezing and waxing, permanent hair removal can be achieved.  Between treatments, hair can be camouflaged by shaving or clipping. (Return to top)

What causes excess hair?

Puberty, pregnancy and menopause are normal systemic changes that can affect hair growth.  Hereditary predispositions, such as race or ethnic background, are other causes of excessive hair growth.  Some medication, stress or malfunction of the endocrine system can be other causes. (Return to top)

How costly is the procedure?

The cost is moderate when compared with the ongoing cost of non-permanent methods of hair removal and hours spent using them. Electrolysis frees one permanently from unwanted hair. (Return to top)