Electrolysis is painful. The truth is, electrolysis usually does not cause much discomfort. Modern electrolysis methods have reduced the discomfort to a mere tingling. A topical anesthetic may be used in some cases.

The electric tweezer method is permanent. The truth is, the Food and Drug Administration and the American Medical Association recognize only electrolysis as a permanent method of removing hair. In fact, some states prohibit those who use the electric tweezer—which can also be purchased for consumer use—from claiming it provides permanent hair removal.

Temporary methods of hair removal are better. The truth is, that while chemical depilatories (liquids or creams) are often used to remove body hair, these products contain irritating chemicals and can be time-consuming and messy. Likewise, bleaches contain harsh chemicals and do little to disguise dark hair. They may also discolor the skin. Waxing is another temporary method of hair removal and is usually done in salons. Hot wax is applied to the skin and removed once it has dried over the hair. The hair is stripped off when the wax is removed. Waxing can be painful and costly. Home waxing kits are available, but they can be difficult to use and messy. There are electrical electrolysis devices available for home use that try to copy the devices used by professionals. These devices are often unsafe for use by anyone who is not trained in electrolysis.

Electrologists are people who have undergone training to professionally administer the electrolysis procedure. If you are considering undergoing electrolysis, it is very important that you do your research before committing to an appointment. The wrong decision can mean extra sessions and cost and unnecessary discomfort. By following the guidelines listed below, you can take comfort in knowing that you will be making an educated and informed decision when choosing an electrologist.

• Know their qualifications. Many states, including New Mexico, require that electrologists be licensed or certified within the state in order to practice electrolysis. If you live in those states (see the Food and Drug Administration for a complete list), be sure the practitioner’s certificate is current and fully on display. For states that do not regulate electrolysis, look for electrologists who have a certification from an accredited electrology school.
• Ask around. One of the best ways to find any good service is to ask friends and family for a recommendation. If you know anybody who has undergone electrolysis, ask for his or her input.
• Get a consultation. Many professionals will give you a free consultation. During the consultation, be sure that any and all of your questions about the procedure are answered. Some of the questions you can ask include: how the procedure will feel; an estimate on the number of visits you will likely need; the cost of each visit (this will vary from place to place, and it is best to call around); the length of each session; how long they have been in business; and the number of clients they have treated.
• Make sure they use the right technique. Make sure the practitioner uses needle electrolysis, which is the only permanent form of hair removal. Some places may advertise electrolysis, but in reality, they use electronic tweezers or photo epilators. These are not permanent hair removal procedures.
• Use common sense. When you go to your consultation, look around. Does the place look clean? Do the workers look clean? Do they use disposable gloves or probes? Ask to meet to the person who will be performing the electrolysis for you. Does he or she strike you as a professional? If you are not personally comfortable with somebody, do not go to him or her. Personal comfort is essential to knowing you have made the right decision in choosing an electrologist.

Since many factors influence hair growth, you will need to return for several visits. The total number of sessions needed to remove hair permanently from a particular area will vary from person to person. Most clients return once a week or every other week, as necessary. But the unwanted hair will be gone forever once the series of treatments have been completed. Each treatment lasts between 15 minutes to one hour.

Unlike other hair removal options, professionally performed electrolysis eliminates unwanted hair, permanently, with unsurpassed results. Moreover, it does so for the largest variety of skin and hair types. Laser promoters compare laser to electrolysis although laser-assisted hair removal is considered a temporary method. It has not been evaluated for long-term safety of the patient’s skin and health.

Waxing, threading, and tweezing are alike. However, ingrown hairs and discoloration may result. Additionally, they may cause an increase in hair growth activity. Depilatories and shaving can cause irritation to the skin while the hair re-grows quickly. These methods can require a lifetime of maintenance. Many can appear inexpensive but cost more due to long-term use and are found to be inconvenient. Electrolysis works on most areas of the body to give you smooth, sleek healthy-looking skin. No other solution claims such as universal acceptability and success.

Excessive hair growth, known as hirsutism, can range from fine, vellus hair to dark, coarse hair on the face and body. Deep, coarse hairs cannot always be eliminated with one treatment; thus, breaking down the hair growth cells may require addition treatments. Based on a personal and confidential consultation, your electrologist will design a treatment plan that addresses your specific hair removal 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.

Most clients find electrolysis to be a comfortable experience. With continually advancing technology, equipment, and treatment protocols, electrolysis is more comfortable and effective than ever before. Electrolysis can help you transform your image through smooth hair-free skin.

Immediately following treatment, there may be slight redness, which varies with each individual. Hot or cold compresses can be used with each treatment if necessary. 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 works on all skin and hair types. It can be applied to most facial and body parts, including eyebrows, chin, upper and lower lip, jawline and sides of the face, breasts and underarms, abdomen, bikini line, legs, and back. Based on a personal and confidential consultation, your electrologist will design a treatment plan that addresses your specific hair removal needs. There is no better solution than electrolysis, a treatment that is as individual as you are.

Electrolysis can be performed on most moles where states 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. This includes pregnant women. We suggest that you seek the advice of your physician before beginning treatment. Electrolysis can enhance your natural beauty with smooth, hair-free, and healthy-looking skin for a glowing look that’s uniquely you!

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 medications, and stress influence the treatment program for each individual. Electrolysis is effective on all skin and hair types. No other hair removal solution can claim such universal acceptability and success. It is important to follow the recommended treatment plan to achieve optimum results.

American Electrology Association
Hair Facts
The Society for Clinical and Medical Hair Removal, Inc.

Your last shave should be at least 72 to 48 hours before your treatment. Doing so will ensure that the dead hairs have been removed and new growth will be present to kill effectively.

Above all, common sense and good personal hygiene promote healthy skin.

• DO NOT RUB, SCRATCH OR SQUEEZE treated area(s).
• Clean the area with a clean cotton ball or pad using Rubbing Alcohol/Witch Hazel three times a day for the three days after your treatment.
• If needed, use only one of three things: aloe vera, triple antibiotic cream, or tea tree oil. Please apply to the area with a q-tip – never your fingers.
• Do not wear make-up on treated area for 48 hours.
• No sun exposure of treated area for 2 DAYS.
• If small scabs appear do not scratch them away. Allow them to fall off naturally. This indicates a temporary healing process and it will disappear shortly.
• REMEMBER some re-growth is to be expected. If you will return when the first re-growth occurs, the roots are shorter and therefore can be treated more effectively.
• If you have any further questions, please call 1.505.463.2002.