Electrolysis: Frequently asked questions

"So how long will this take,
and why do I have to come back?"

   It’s very difficult to predict exactly how long it will take to "get
the job done," because that depends on a variety of factors, such
as the cause of the unwanted hair, its density and coarseness,
regularity of electrolysis treatments, previous methods of hair
removal, and individual tolerance.

   Because hair cycles are staggered and varied in length, it can take
anywhere from several months to a year, sometimes longer, to be able to
find and treat all unwanted follicles.   This is why a series of treatments
over a period of time is necessary. Although this may sound like a long
time, it’s worth noting that if you stick to a regular schedule,   you will
start to see significant results long before then. As you make progress,
your sessions will become shorter and spaced further apart.

   Being consistent with your electrolysis appointments will produce the
quickest and most satisfying results for you. Most (about 80%) follicles
are eliminated the first time they’re treated. Some are more resistant,
and will probably have to be treated again. The regrowth hairs are usually
finer than their predecessors.

   Here’s an example of how it works:   let's say that you have 100 follicles
which are currently producing hairs.   After treatment, 80 of them will be
permanently eliminated.   This means that the next time the follicles are
ready to go into active growth again (weeks to months), only 20 of the
original 100 will produce another hair. The next treatment will get another
80%, or 16 of the 20, and so on.   No matter how stubborn they might be,
the follicles don't stand a chance because the odds are against them.

                  "Hey, wait a minute - what's this?"

   When you start seeing new hairs coming in a few days after your
appointment, it’s important to remember that they are not from the
same follicles that were just treated. These new hairs are from follicles
that were dormant at the time of your treatment.

                        "Yes, but will it hurt?"

   This is a common concern, but most people are pleasantly surprised to
find that the discomfort of electrolysis is not as bad as they had feared.
Sensitivity differs among individuals, and can even vary within the same
person from one treatment session to the next. It can be affected by things
like stress, medication, and caffeine.   Some parts of the body (upper lip,
eyebrows, toes) are more sensitive than others (chin, legs, back of neck).

At Alter Image, every treatment is individualized. Topical anesthetics can
be applied in order to maximize your comfort. You can even bring in your
favorite CD or tape to help you relax.

"Is electrolysis really permanent?"

Many people are surprised to learn that electrolysis is not a new procedure; it was
developed in 1875 by a doctor as a way to permanently remove ingrown eyelashes.
Of course, it has come a long way since then, with many improvements in equipment
and technique. Electrolysis has been the only proven method of permanent hair
removal for the past 125 years, and it is the only one approved by the FDA for that
purpose.

* Physicians and dermatologists often make referrals to electrologists for their
patients who are bothered by unwanted hair.

* In Oregon, all electrologists must be licensed and participate in Continuing
Education. The license must be current and on display.

* Well-informed practitioners also belong to professional organizations
such as the American Electrology Association and the Oregon Association of
Licensed Electrologists.

"From where can I remove hair?"

Areas commonly treated on women include the hairline, eyebrows, ears,
top of nose, cheeks, sides of the face, upper and lower lip areas, chin,
throat, neck, shoulder, back, underarms, chest, breasts, abdomen, bikini
line, arms, fingers, legs and toes.

   For men areas of concern frequently include the hairline, eyebrows, top
of the nose, mustache-line, ears, sideburns, cheeks,    beard-line, neck,
shoulders, back, and chest.   Many men are plagued by ingrown hairs
due to irritation from shaving, especially when it’s done opposite the
direction of growth.

Hair can be removed from almost any part of the body, except the inside
of the nose and the ear canal. Eyelashes and hairs growing out of a mole,
wart, or birthmark can only be removed with a doctor's written consent.

"What about the use of lasers for hair removal?"

For a variety of information about lasers, including how they work, as well as
the latest articles and research findings; please visit www.electrology.com