Electrolysis FAQs

A fine probe is inserted into the hair follicle down to the root. Depending on the modality used, an electric current destroys the follicle through heat, chemical action, or a blend of both.

Electrolysis is most effective when the hair is treated in its active growth stage (anagen), which is why sessions are spaced to catch each follicle at the right point in its cycle.

Electrolysis is the only method the FDA recognizes as permanent hair removal. Laser is classified as permanent hair reduction. Electrolysis destroys the cells responsible for hair growth while protecting the skin surface, and it can be used on all hair colors and skin types.

Laser Affair performs electrolysis on the Apilus xCell Pur. All four modalities are safe and effective, and your electrologist selects the one that suits the hair being treated.

Galvanic (DC)

Destroys the follicle through chemical action.

Thermolysis (HF)

Destroys the follicle through heat.

Blend

Combines heat and chemical action.

Synchro

An Apilus-exclusive modality, highly effective for distorted or deeply rooted hairs.

A soothing post-treatment technique that reduces redness and inflammation, restores the skin's pH, and promotes healing.

Insertion is typically not felt because the probe follows the follicle. Sensation during treatment ranges from warmth to a sharper feeling similar to plucking. Settings can be adjusted for comfort, and clients may take acetaminophen or apply a topical anesthetic beforehand if desired. Our equipment is designed for maximum comfort.

Yes. Electrolysis has a long safety record with no known serious long-term complications when performed by a licensed electrologist. Temporary redness, pinpoint bleeding, or mild crusting can occur. You will receive detailed aftercare instructions.

Yes. Electrolysis is safe and effective for mature skin, especially for white, gray, and blonde hairs that lasers cannot remove.

We avoid electrolysis during pregnancy.

Electrolysis has not been shown to trigger seizures, but because the treatment uses electrical current, we require medical clearance first.

Contraindications include:

• Pregnancy
• Active hepatitis or HIV
• Electronic implants such as pacemakers
• Active herpes simplex or eczema in the treatment area
• Current or recent Accutane (within 6 months)
• Diabetes (no treatment on hands, feet, or lower legs)

Hair moves through three phases:

Anagen

Active growth. This is the stage electrolysis targets.

Catagen

Transitional phase.

Telogen

Resting and shedding phase.

Because not all hairs are visible at once, new hairs that appear later are usually from dormant follicles rather than regrowth from treated ones.

Successfully treated follicles will not grow back. Electrolysis cannot, however, prevent new hairs from forming because of hormonal changes, medications, genetics, or medical conditions. It remains the only method that permanently destroys the follicles it treats.

Terminal hair

Coarse, thick hair, such as scalp, pubic and underarm hair, and face and body hair in men.

Vellus hair

Soft, fine body hair. It can convert to terminal hair because of hormones, genetics, or stimulation.

Excessive, often hormone-related hair growth in women. Causes include puberty, pregnancy, menopause, medications, illness, obesity, and genetics. A doctor should diagnose the cause. Electrolysis is the method that permanently removes the hair itself.

Some women have follicles that are abnormally sensitive to normal androgen levels. The tendency runs in families, though its underlying cause is unknown.