Electrolysis – your questions answered.
There are various factors which cause excessive hair growth, however the causes are mainly heredity and due to hormone levels. Some illness and drugs or even temporary methods of hair removal can stimulate growth. Electrolysis is a great option for small areas of excessive hair growth and is suitable for any hair colour, unlike laser where the hair has to be dark.
The most frequently asked questions we get in regards to electrolysis are :
Q.What is Electrolysis?
A.It is a permanent hair removal treatment for small areas on the face and body. Each individual hair follicle is treated with a fine, sterile disposable needle where an electric current is passed down into the root of the hair to permanently destroy the follicle and stop re-growth.
Q.Which areas can be treated?
A.The most common areas for women are facial; upper lip, chin, cheeks and neck. Body; breasts, abdomen, underarms and bikini. For men it is around the edges of the beard and eyebrows. Or any areas where ingrown hairs are causing problems.
Q.How long does treatment last?
A.The first treatment is allocated a 5 to 10 mins slot and this may be enough for future appointments however depending on the area or areas being treated following treatment times can be between 15 mins and 60 mins.
Q.How many treatments would it take?
A.The number of treatments required will vary depending on which area is being treated and the reason for excessive hair – whether it be hormonal, genetics, health or medical conditions. Average results are between 6 to 18 months.
Q.Are there any contra-indications?
A.Most of the following conditions are either completely contraindicated or treatment can be carried out using caution, Your therapist will advise you at consultation stage.
- Herpes Simplex
- Anyone on blood thinning medication such as Wafarin
- Rosacea
- Epilepsy
- Keloid scarring
- Pacemaker
- Sunburn
Q.Does it hurt?
A.Depending on your pain threshold and the area being treated and everyone is different, I would compare it to a slight stinging sensation, and some people describe it as a mild warming sensation, but is more a discomfort than pain. The electric current can be adjusted to minimize discomfort. A topical anesthetic can be bought from the chemist and applied before treatment.
Q.Is there any down time?
A.We recommend a soothing cream after treatment such as Aloe Vera, we will apply this in salon before you leave but it is useful to keep this handy at home should the skin feel sensitive or inflamed after treatment. We recommend no make-up, sunbathing, spray tans, swimming or sun beds for 24 hours. however you can go back to work after treatment.
Q.Can I shave or trim hair between treatments?
A.If your treatment appointments are spaced out correctly and you don’t miss an appointment you should not need to shave or trim with scissors between treatments. If you need to, you can trim the hair with scissors, it is best to avoid plucking or waxing once you commence your electrolysis treatment plan.
Q.Who is suitable for treatment?
A.Electrolysis is suitable for all skin types and hair types. Unlike laser which is only suitable for dark hair and also works best on a thicker, coarse hair.
Q.How much does treatment cost?
A. 10 mins or less = £12
15 mins = £15
20 mins = £20
30 mins = £25
Q. Can treatment begin during pregnancy?
A.Electrolysis is safe to use during pregnancy, but we would advise to speak to your Doctor before commencing treatment. Hormonal changes during pregnancy will cause unwanted hair.
Q.Can hairs be removed from moles?
A.Most moles can be treated although a Doctors consent is required.
Q.How do I know if this is the right treatment for me?
A.At your first appointment the Electrologist will ask you to complete a consultation form which she will go through with you and advise if Electrolysis is the correct form for treatment for you. Other treatment options may also be explained.