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Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Why choose electrolysis?

Electrolysis is the only FDA approved hair removal method that is permanent. All other methods are only temporary. Electrolysis saves time because temporary methods are timely and costly. Electrolysis is money well-spent because it is permanent.

Q:What is electrolysis?

Electrolysis works by the professional electrologist inserting a very fine, sterile probe alongside the hair in the hair follicle. A small amount of electrical current is applied through the probe, which destroys the hair root. Done by a professional, the skin is not punctured or harmed.

Q:Is electrolysis permanent?

Electrolysis is the only proven method of permanent hair removal that has been medically proven. Once the hair follicle is destroyed, the hair will not grow back.

Q:What areas can be treated?

Almost any part of the body can be treated with electrolysis. The only two areas to be avoided are the nostrils and ear canals. Moles can be treated with a doctor’s permission note. Women often have the eyebrows, upper lip, chin, neck, cheeks, underarms, the hairline, breasts, stomach, legs, or bikini-line done. Men choose their beard-line, nose, ears, back, shoulders, or chest. Although the genitalia is safe to have electrolysis on, Sylvia has chosen to not work on the genitalia region.

Q:What causes excessive hair growth?

Many factors, including any or a combination of heredity, hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, the normal aging process, stress, reactions to certain medicines, or excessive tweezing or waxing can contribute to unwanted hair growth.

Q:How long does it take?

It is important to remember that electrolysis is a series of treatments because all of your hair does not grow at the same time. The length of time depends on how much hair, the structure of the hair, previous hair removal methods used, heredity, and other factors. Your appointments will get shorter in length and farther apart as progress is made.

Q:Is electrolysis painful?

A person’s tolerance and discomfort is relative to each individual person. Some areas are more sensitive that others. Sensitivity varies with areas of the body and treatment to treatment. Electrolysis feels like a sting or quick warmth. It goes away very quickly. A topical anesthetic, which I have, is helpful, or even using ice on the area to be treated, on your way to your appointment is helpful.

Q:How long has electrolysis been around?

Electrolysis was first done over one hundred years ago in 1875 by Dr. Charles Michel to remove ingrowing eyelashes. The technology has changed, but the proven process remains the same. Sylvia’s state-of-the-art Apilus machine works as quickly as thousandths of a second and has many settings to be efficient and comfortable for you. Electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal method approved by the FDA.

Q:Are there side-effects?

After your treatment, it is normal for your skin to be red and possibly swollen. This will only last a few hours. Electrolysis leaves the follicle open so it is prone to bacteria. The best thing is to not touch the area and to keep it clean. At times, a small crust may form over the follicle. This is normal and is nature’s way to help it heal and protect it from bacteria. It is very important to not pick the crust off. This can lead to the skin having a pit or scar on it. Sylvia will send after-care instructions home with you.

Q:How does electrolysis compare to other methods?

Electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal method. Waxing, threading, tweezing, depilatories and shaving are all temporary, time-consuming, and need to be repeated time after time. Electrolysis is permanent and effective when done by a licensed professional.

Q:What about laser hair removal?

Lasers have only been approved by the FDA as a permanent hair reduction. Lasers only work on certain types of hair and skin. Electrolysis works on all skin types and hair. Lasers can only be considered a temporary method. The long-term safety of the patient’s skin and health has not been evaluated.

Q:Is electrolysis expensive?

With electrolysis, the problem is being dealt with permanently. Fees for electrolysis are in keeping with other aesthetic services. Consider the cost of creams, razors, and waxing, and your countless hours pursuing temporary results. You will be saving hours and expense over a lifetime because electrolysis is permanent. Competent professional service is well worth the cost.

Q:What can I do to make my treatments more effective?

Keeping a consistent schedule is in your best interest. Drinking lots of water and being hydrated helps too. Use ice before your treatment on the treatment area if you are sensitive.

Q:What about sanitation and sterilization?

Sanitation and sterilization are a high priority to Sylvia. All instruments are streilized and the office is completely sanitized between each client. The probes come prepackaged and in a sterile package. The probes are never used twice. The American Electrology Association has infection control standards for the practice of electrology, along with the State of Oregon. Sylvia follows these standards for your safety and health.