Frequently Asked Client Questions

Are there any skin conditions that stop me being able to have electrolysis?

Electrolysis can only be performed on a healthy skin. If there is any evidence of a skin disease or disorder in the treatable area then treatment may not commence. Some conditions may prevent treatment until the skin has healed e.g. cold sores, eczema or active acne etc.

During the consultation the area to be treated will be assessed and in some cases I may require written consent from your doctor prior to treatment.

I regularly go swimming and to the gym. How long after treatment I can resume my fitness regime?

We usually recommend that swimming (if in a public pool) gets a night off while the skin calms down to ensure no minor infection can happen. If the skin has returned to normal and is not hot or warm, sore, pink or red and no sign of any swelling then there should be no problem.

Is electrolysis safe?

Electrolysis was first invented in 1875 and is proven both effective and totally safe. Advancing technology has meant electrolysis has become more gentle and comfortable, even more effective and remains an affordable, modern treatment increasingly popular today. Equally effective as a stand alone treatment, or as part of a programme of support for hair management systems such as IPL or laser, electrolysis will work for you.

Are there any side effects of electrolysis?

When electrolysis is performed correctly by a skilled electrologist it is perfectly safe. On your first appointment I will give you a full consultation to discuss your medical history and any reasons the treatment can not be performed.

Following your treatment, I’ll go through the aftercare advice and apply a soothing aftercare gel. It’s essential you follow the advice to prevent any unwanted reaction.

Does electrolysis hurt?

Electrolysis can be a little uncomfortable for many people but others can fall asleep during treatment. During an electrolysis treatment a tiny sterile probe is introduced into the opening of the hair follicle or blemish. A small burst of energy is released and a sensation will be experienced like a tingle, heat or a minor sting. Everyone has their own individual pain threshold which can be affected by a number of factors:
1) Individual pain thresholds – this can be affected by health, stress, time of menstruation etc
2) Area to be treated
3) Strength and size of hair
4) Skin sensitivity
5) Type of current used
One thing that you can depend on is electrolysis works so any minor discomfort is well worth the results.

How do the results compare to laser?

Both laser and electrolysis are very effective for removing superfluous hair. Although they both have their uses, electrolysis is the only proven permanent method of hair removal. Laser hair removal does have its limitations. The laser is attracted to the pigment within the hair, therefore white hair is difficult to treat. Hair growth as a result of a hormonal imbalance is also difficult to treat. The hair density can be reduced greatly but it is necessary to continue with electrolysis to obtain further results.

How soon will I start to see results?

This is personal to you, the area you are having treated and how quickly your hair grows. Your electrolysis will take into account your hair growth cycle and your skin sensitivity to create a treatment plan that works quickly, but the priority should always be on long lasting results.

How many treatments will I need?

This is down to the individual. Electrolysis treats each individual hair repeatedly as gently as possible so the hair becomes weaker and no tissue damage is caused. The cause of hair growth will influence the amount of treatments required. A treatment plan should be discussed with your electrologist during your consultation to give you some indication of the commitment required.
1) Individual pain thresholds – this can be affected by health, stress, time of menstruation etc
2) Area to be treated
3) Strength and size of hair
4) Skin sensitivity
5) Type of current used
One thing that you can depend on is electrolysis works so any minor discomfort is well worth the results.

What do I do about my hairs between treatments?

There may be some hair growth between treatments. To manage these you should cut the hair as this will temporarily remove them without interfering with the root of the hair and affecting results. Tweezing, threading and waxing must be avoided during a course of electrolysis.

How will my skin look after an electrolysis treatment?

Immediately after an electrolysis treatment it is normal for the skin to be sensitised with a pink appearance. This reaction is temporary and should return to normal within 24 hours. If you are having an advanced cosmetic procedure your blemish is likely to take on a different appearance that will heal over time. Following your treatment an aftercare product will be applied to calm and soothe the area protecting it from an unwanted reaction.

I have a pacemaker, can I have electrolysis?

Unfortunately, electrolysis is not usually offered to clients with a pacemaker. This is for the safety of the client. Electrolysis uses an electrical current to treat the hair and this could affect the pacemaker. Some pacemakers are insulated, and it is possible to offer the treatment on occasion. It’s advisable to obtain a letter of consent from both the G.P. and the pacemaker manufacturer. Also check that your insurance will cover you.