Electrolosis Process
A small electric current is transmitted by a fine, sterile probe (or needle) directly into the natural opening of the hair follicle, destroying the dermal papilla, the matrix, and an area called "the bulge", all of which cause hair to grow and regenerate.
Hair Removal for Men
Men who feel they have too much hair may seek electrolysis treatment. Even without an excess amount of hair, electrolysis is frequently used for eyebrow shaping as well as underarms, groin, arms and legs, lower back and buttocks. Men also receive treatments on their ears, eyebrows, beard-lines, chests, backs and genitals.
The most commonly treated areas for men are: Back (including shoulders and torso) - Ears - Brows - Cheeks (to clean up beard line) - Neckline - Nape - Groin - Hands
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes unwanted hair?
There are many causes, including genetics, hormonal imbalances or changes, and side effects from many medications. Some hair removal techniques, such as tweezing and waxing can actually cause formerly fine hair to grow coarser over time.
If I stop doing whatever made my hair grow coarse, will it go away?
No. Once a hair becomes coarse it will remain coarse
How long does it take to get rid of all my hair?
It depends upon how large an area is being treated, as well as how often you are able to come in for treatment. Certain areas, such as the face, tend to have more hormonally sensitive follicles which require several treatments.
Who gets electrolysis?
Almost anyone with unwanted hair is an appropriate candidate for electrolysis. All kinds of people have electrolysis treatments. Men and women, as well as older teenagers can be safely and effectively treated. It is suitable for all skin types and hair colors. Even very delicate skin can be safely treated with electrolysis.
Is the procedure safe?
Yes. It has been in use for over 100 years. Certain physical conditions, such as pregnancy, require different modalities, but it can still be safely performed. Please be sure to let your electrologist know about any medical conditions you may have, so that you can be safely treated. If you have any concerns, you may want to discuss them with your physician or dermatologist also.
Does it hurt?
It can be mildly uncomfortable. Certain areas (such as the upper lip) are more sensitive than others. Some areas, such as legs, rarely cause any discomfort. Over the counter pain relief can be taken an hour or so in advance if you wish. There are also topical numbing creams. Some of them are available by prescription, and some are sold over the counter. Many clients like to use these products for particularly sensitive areas and otherwise do not require any kind of pain relief. Your electrologist will adjust the settings to your level of comfort.
Can Electrolysis cause harm?
Not from a skilled practitioner. The licensing requirements for the state of Connecticut ensure that only well-trained and well qualified electrologists are permitted to practice. Of course you should discuss any concerns you may have with your electrologist and possibly your physician.
My aunt had electrolysis years ago, but the hair grew back! Why do you say it is permanent?
Electrolysis permanently removes the coarse, or “terminal” hair that has been treated. However, no hair removal method can prevent other fine, or “vellus” hairs from becoming coarse later. There are hundreds of follicles per square centimeter of skin, any one of which can begin to produce coarse hair at any time. This new growth can easily be treated as well.
Is electrolysis safe for African-American skin?
Yes, electrolysis is safe for African-American skin. Many African-American men have electrolysis to treat folliculitis from shaving.
What areas can be treated?
Any hair on the body can be treated. (Ingrown eyelashes must be treated by an eye doctor, however.) Common treatment areas include- upper lip, chin, ears, the top of the nose, beard sculpting for men, eyebrows, bikini line, belly, hands, toes, legs, back, shoulders, cheeks, neck, under arms, lower lip, and breasts.
Is this procedure covered by insurance?
ABC Electrology does not accept insurance. However, some insurance companies do cover electrolosis done for medical reasons, such as for gender corrective surgury.
Do you work on genitalia?
Yes. Please call for further information.
Do you have any experience working with transgender clients?
Yes. Transgender clients are an important part of our client base. We have experience dealing with any special treatment issues for individuals who are transitioning.
Is there anything I should do before coming in for an appointment?
Yes. Please stop using any hair removal method in the area you wish to have treated. Only hair which is visible above the skin surface can be treated. However, it can be treated when it is very short. As long as it is long enough to be grasped with forceps (tweezers), it is long enough to be treated. You may also want to use warm compresses on the treatment area in order to help bring as much hair as possible up to the skin surface so that it can all be treated. If you use any Retin-A products, discontinue them for 24 hours before your appointment.
Do you use sterile equipment?
Yes. All probes are sterile, pre-packaged, single use, & disposable. Forceps and probe holding tips are heat sterilized after every use. The procedures for sterilization are state-regulated and specific.
What should I do after a treatment?
Following treatment keep your skin clean and well moisturized. If you wish you can apply ice cubes. Be sure to use sunblock. Any swelling or irritation can be treated with antibiotic cream. Aloe vera and witch hazel both help to soothe skin. Epsom salt compresses can help prevent new ingrown hairs from forming and will soothe any skin irritation.
Are there any side effects?
Temporary, mild swelling and redness are the usual side effects. Your electrologist will apply cream or gel to help sooth your skin after treatment. Occasionally, a small mild bruise can form around a follicle, but this is rare. As your skin becomes accustomed to the treatments, you will notice less and less swelling or redness.
For Facial Areas
Electrolysis is the only medically recognized way to permanently remove unsightly hair and is used on many body areas including:
- Upper lip
- Chin
- Eyebrows
- White, gray or red hairs
- Ears
The most commonly treated areas for men are: Back (including shoulders and torso) - Ears - Brows - Cheeks (to clean up beard line) - Neckline - Nape - Groin - Hands
Hair Removal for Women
Almost all areas of the body can be subject to unwelcome hair growth. For women, the unwanted hair on commonly visible areas, like the face, usually takes priority.
Hair growth in the chin, upper lip, jaw, and throat areas is usually caused by hormones, whether imbalanced or not. Genetics and medications can also cause excess hair on the face and on body areas such as the chest, breasts and abdomen.
The most commonly treated areas for women are: Chin - Jawline - Upper lip - Throat - Sides of face - Eyebrows - Chest - Abdomen - Breasts - Underarms - Hairline - Fingers and toes
Consultations
All consultations are free. During a consultation, you will fill out a client information form, which we will go over together. You will see a short video about the electrolysis, and will be able to ask questions. If you wish, a treatment can be scheduled to immediately follow the consultation.