Electrolysis FAQs
What is electrolysis and how does it work?
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.
For electrolysis to be 100% effective, the hair must be treated in its active growth stage (anagen).
What makes electrolysis permanent?
Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method of true permanent hair removal. It destroys the cells responsible for hair growth while protecting the skin surface. It is safe and effective for all hair and skin types.
How many sessions will I need?
Hair grows in cycles, and not all follicles are visible at the same time. Most body areas cycle fully within 12–18 months (legs may take longer).
Your total treatment time depends on:
- Body area treated
- Hair density and structure
- Previous temporary hair removal methods
Hormones, medications, and hereditary factors
Consistent treatments are key. Most clients begin with weekly or biweekly appointments, then gradually decrease frequency.
How long is a session?
Sessions may be as short as 15 minutes or as long as a few hours, depending on the number of hairs treated.
What does electrolysis feel like? Is it painful?
- 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.
- Clients may take acetaminophen or apply topical anesthetic beforehand if desired.
- We use advanced equipment designed for maximum comfort.
Is electrolysis safe?
Yes. Electrolysis has no serious risks or long-term complications. Temporary redness, pinpoint bleeding, or mild crusting can occur. You will receive detailed aftercare instructions.
How much does electrolysis cost?
Fees are based on treatment time, from 15-minute sessions to multi-hour appointments. Because hair growth is cyclical and influenced by hormones and other factors, cost and duration vary by client.
We can provide a clearer estimate after your first few sessions.
What treatment methods are used?
All four methods are safe and effective:
- Galvanic (DC): destroys the follicle through chemical action
- Thermolysis (HF): destroys the follicle through heat
- Blend: combines heat and chemical action
- Synchro (Apilus exclusive): highly effective for distorted or deeply rooted hairs
Should I choose laser or electrolysis?
It depends on your hair color, skin tone, and goals.
Laser is ideal for:
- Dark, coarse hair
- Larger areas like legs, back, or full arms
Electrolysis is ideal for:
- White, gray, blonde, or red hairs that laser cannot target
- Precision areas (brows, upper lip)
- Hormonal or medically-related hair growth
- Clients requiring true permanence
Laser Affair offers both methods and will recommend the best combination for your goals.
What is the hair growth cycle?
Hair cycles through:
- Anagen: active growth
- 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—not regrowth from treated ones.
What is the difference between terminal and vellus hair?
- Terminal hair: coarse, thick hair (scalp, pubic area, underarms; face and body in men)
- Vellus hair: soft, fine body hair; can convert to terminal hair due to hormones, genetics, or stimulation
Will electrolysis get rid of my hair for good?
Successfully treated follicles will not grow back.
However, electrolysis cannot prevent new hairs from forming due to:
- Hormonal changes
- Medications
- Genetics
- Medical conditions
Electrolysis remains the only method that permanently destroys treated follicles.
Which areas can be treated?
Electrolysis is safe for all skin types and can treat almost any area except:
- Inside the nose
- Inside the ears
Common areas include brows, lips, chin, jawline, breasts, underarms, and bikini line.
For large areas (back, arms, legs), laser is recommended first, followed by electrolysis on remaining light or resistant hairs.
Do you treat mature skin?
Yes. Electrolysis is safe and effective for mature skin, especially for white, gray, and blonde hairs that lasers cannot remove.
Can a pregnant person receive electrolysis?
We avoid electrolysis during pregnancy.
Can someone with epilepsy be treated?
Electrolysis has not been shown to trigger seizures, but due to electrical current use, we require medical clearance.
When is electrolysis not safe?
Contraindications include:
- Pregnancy
- Active hepatitis or HIV
- Electronic implants (pacemakers, etc.)
- Active herpes simplex or eczema in treatment area
- Current or recent Accutane (within 6 months)
- Diabetes (treatment not allowed on hands, feet, or lower legs)
Do I need a consultation if I’ve had electrolysis before?
Yes. We review health history, answer questions, and discuss office policies.
Most clients can begin treatment during the same appointment.
Do I need hair growth before my session?
Yes. Hair must be long enough to grasp with tweezers (about 3–5 days of growth).
Avoid plucking, waxing, threading, or anything that removes the hair from the follicle, as this disrupts treatment effectiveness.
What is cataphoresis?
A soothing post-treatment technique that reduces redness and inflammation, restores the skin’s pH, and promotes healing.
What is hirsutism?
Excessive, often hormone-related hair growth in women. Causes include puberty, pregnancy, menopause, medications, illness, obesity, and genetics.
Consult a doctor for diagnosis; electrolysis is required for permanent removal.
What is unexplained hirsutism?
Some women have follicles abnormally sensitive to normal androgen levels. This tendency is genetic, though the cause is unknown.