About Electrolysis / Frequently Asked Questions

(Information from the American Electrology Association)

What is Electrolysis?

Electrolysis is the only method approved by the FDA for permanent removal of unwanted hair.

Electrolysis is permanent hair removal. Regardless of the cause of unwanted hair: heredity, metabolic, or hormonal conditions - electrolysis will permanently remove unwanted hair to reveal a glowing, confident you.

Does electrolysis work?

Absolutely. Electrolysis is the only method approved by the FDA for permanent removal of unwanted hair. As the hair is treated, regrowth is prevented rather than just removed temporarily. Only electrolysis provides both hair removal and hair elimination.

Will electrolysis work for me?

Most certainly. Electrolysis is effective for all skin types, hair types, skin colors, hair colors, and areas of the body. For more information, see our Electrolysis Solutions area.

What areas of the body are most commonly treated with electrolysis?

Women frequently treat the following areas:
Lip, chin, neck, back of neck, side burns, eyebrows, arms, underarms, legs, bikini line, breasts, stomach and small of back.

Men frequently treat the following areas:
Ears, eyebrows, cheeks, neck, back & shoulders.

What is the science behind electrolysis?

A small electric current is transmitted by a fine, sterile probe, directly into the natural opening of the hair follicle, destroying the dermal papilla, the matrix, and an area called "the bulge", all of which cause hair to grow and regenerate. Learn more about how electrolysis works.

Why do people get electrolysis hair removal?

Maybe it's just an unwelcome maintenance routine that takes a lot of time, but often, unwanted hair creates self-consciousness serious enough to inhibit our fullest expression of ourselves. If unwanted hair gets in the way of your confidence, social life, work, sports, schedules or even self-expression, this is your opportunity to act.

How long does it take to see results?

Electrolysis takes some patience but it’s absolutely worth the wait as the effects are truly permanent. Most patients start to have noticeable results after several treatments, however, it can take on average 8-18 months for full results. This variance is due to many factors and every patient is unique. Factors include the cause of the hair growth; for example treating hair caused by hormonal growth can take longer than hair growth due to hereditary conditions.

Is all electrolysis the same?

There are three types, or modalities, of electrolysis used today - galvanic (current produces a chemical reaction), thermolysis (short-wave which produces heat) and a modality that blends the two. They all result in effective permanent hair removal.

Your electrologist will develop a customized treatment plan and use the type, or a combination of types to achieve optimal results.

Does electrolysis have any side effects on the skin?

Immediately following treatment, there may be a temporary redness, bumpiness or tenderness, which varies with each individual. The latest technology has made electrolysis more comfortable and effective than ever before. Your electrologist will provide you with post treatment instructions and any personal attention you may need. You are assured of the best care from a skilled hair removal professional. Learn more about how electrolysis works.

How has Electrology changed since it was invented in 1875?

Permanent hair removal using electrolysis has come a long way since its beginnings in 1875. Today's technology enables an 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.