What To Expect
-
what is electrolysis?
Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal. With a long-established history of effectively treating unwanted hair, electrolysis was originally developed in 1875 to treat ingrown eyelashes. Over time, electrolysis evolved into a precise hair removal method with a variety of modalities that make it capable of safely and effectively treating all skin tones, hair types, and differing areas of the body. Electrolysis is recognized as the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal because it works through a follicle-by-follicle approach, where a trained professional inserts a sterile medical-grade probe into each individual follicle to target and eliminate the hair's ability to regrow over time.
-
how is this different than laser?
Laser, being a very prominent hair removal method on the market, differs from electrolysis in a couple different ways. As the method has evolved over time, it is now more commonly recognized as a semi permanent reduction rather than a permanent solution. Its effectiveness can also vary depending on the client's skin tone and hair type, which is often why people with red, white, blonde, or very fine hairs may struggle to find effective long-term hair removal solutions. Laser uses heat and pigment to weaken groups of hairs at once, while electrolysis treats each follicle individually to permanently eliminate its ability to regrow hair over time.
-
how long does it take?
Electrolysis is a process, not a one and done treatment. Since hair grows in different cycles, multiple sessions are needed to permanently treat each follicle at the right stage of growth. Treatment timelines vary based on the area being treated, hair density, hormones, previous hair removal methods, and consistency with appointments. Smaller areas may see significant progress within a few months, while larger or hormonally influenced areas can take longer to fully clear. Most clients begin noticing improvement early in the process as hair becomes finer, slower growing, and less dense over time.
-
How will my skin react?
It's important to have a good before and after routine for successful electrolysis treatments. Every client's hair growth, skin type, and sensitivity level are unique, meaning each person may respond differently throughout the treatment process. Most clients experience mild redness, slight swelling, or sensitivity immediately following treatment, which typically calms down within a few hours to a couple of days depending on the area treated and the individual's skin sensitivity. It's important to have a proper before and after care routine. Pre and Post treatment care plays a major role in both skin health and treatment success. My goal with every client is to help build a routine that supports healthy healing, minimizes irritation, and allows us to achieve the best long-term results possible.
-
how often do I need to go?
Consistency is one of the biggest factors in achieving permanent results with electrolysis. Staying on a regular treatment schedule allows us to effectively treat hairs throughout their different growth cycles while helping reduce overall treatment time long term. Many clients begin on a 1‐2 week treatment schedule and gradually begin spacing appointments further apart as they see progress and hair growth becomes more minimal over time.
-
What if I am pregnant/ get pregnant?
This is a tricky question that comes up. Many clients choose to pause treatment during pregnancy, while others may continue treating certain areas depending on comfort level, medical guidance, and overall skin response. With electrolysis advancements, there are modalities that are localized, that make it safe to continue treatment while pregnant. My priority is always your safety, comfort, and skin health, so treatments and settings may be modified or postponed when necessary. Open communication throughout the process helps ensure we create the safest and most comfortable plan for both you and your skin during pregnancy.
-
what am I supposed to do with hair in between sessions?
To protect the progress being made, it's important not to pluck, wax, or thread between sessions, since those methods remove the hair needed to properly treat the follicle. If needed, trimming or shaving is recommended. Emphasis on NO PLUCKING.
-
Does it hurt?
Electrolysis can be uncomfortable at times, but every client's pain tolerance, skin sensitivity, and treatment area are different. Most clients describe the sensation as small heat zaps, or tiny pinches during treatment. Certain areas of the body may feel more sensitive than others, especially hormonal or thinner skinned areas. Consultations are recommended with first time clients to build a proper treatment plan, discuss realistic expectations, and get some test zaps to see if it's something you are comfortable with.