Fun Fact
The hair we see is not all the hair we have. Hair grows in cycles, this is why it takes more than one appointment to permanently clear an area. It can take up to 8 weeks for a hair to grow back after being tweezed.
What is electrolysis?
Electrolysis is permanent hair removal, regardless of the cause - heredity, metabolic, or hormonal conditions. A small electric current is transmitted by a fine, sterile probe directly into the hair follicle, destroying the dermal papilla, the matrix, and an area called "the bulge", all of which cause hair to grow and regenerate. Electrolysis, like all hair removal treatments, does require multiple treatments which can take up to a year or longer to treat all hair cycles and may require touch-up treatments.
What is laser?
Laser hair removal is the process of hair removal by means of exposure to laser light that destroys the hair follicle. Laser hair removal has become popular because of its speed and efficacy, although some of the efficacy is dependent upon the individual laser, as well as the skill and experience of the laser operator. Some will need touch-up treatments, after the initial set of 5-8 treatments.
What is the difference between laser and electrolysis?
Both laser and electrolysis are FDA-approved methods of hair removal. Laser is classified as permanent hair reduction because the laser can not remove blonde, red, white or gray hairs. However it can effectively remove dark hairs from most areas of the body much quicker than electrolysis. Electrolysis is classified as permanent hair removal because electrolysis can remove all hairs regardless of color.
Which is better?
I work with each client to establish a treatment plan based on factors such as the color and density of hair, the size of the area, and what removal methods have been used. From here, we come up with a treatment plan that is individual to the client and can in some cases, be a combination of both laser and electrolysis treatments.
Is laser safe for all skin types?
There are multiple kinds of lasers on the market and some are better than others. We have a Cynosure Apogee Elite, which has both Alexandrite, and Nd:YAG which means it is safe to use on all Fitzpatrick types.
Is laser treatment safe for the whole body?
Laser treatment around the eye area is not recommended. Electrolysis can be used on areas both large and small and is perfect for removing hairs in areas that need detailed shaping, such as the eyebrows and eyelashes.
Can I have treatment if I am pregnant?
Congratulations! Unfortunately you cannot have laser treatments while pregnant. Should you choose to continue with electrolysis treatments, please speak to your doctor and bring a doctor's note to proceed.
Are there any side effects on the skin?
New technology has made hair removal more comfortable and effective than ever before. However, immediately following treatment, there may be temporary erythema (redness), edema(swelling) or tenderness which varies with each individual. After care instructions will be given during treatment and are also available on the Electrolysis and Laser information pages.
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. We prefer to use the blend method for our clients.
Are there any side effects on the skin?
Immediately following treatment, there may be a temporary redness or tenderness, which varies with each individual. The latest technology have made electrolysis and lasers more comfortable and effective than ever before. Your technician will provide you with post treatment instructions and any personal attention you may need.
Is it for me?
You may feel like you are alone in having unwanted hair, but you are not. There are many reasons people - both men and women - turn to electrolysis and lasers as a way to remove unwanted hair. No matter what the specific problem area, age, gender, hair or skin type, hair color or skin color - you have plenty of company and electrolysis can help. Every day, people just like you choose electrolysis as a permanent, safe, and effective solution.
What can I do to the hair in between treatments?
Shaving, clipping, bleach and the use of depilatory creams(such as Nair) are acceptable forms of removal in between sessions since tweezing, and threading can negatively alter treatment and are not recommended.
Since you are no longer tweezing/sugaring/threading it is going to feel like there is more hair than before, this is because you’ve never let the hairs grow out! Don’t let it discourage you from continuing treatment, this happens because of the different cycles. Stick with it and be patient with yourself, you got this!