Questions & answers
Electrolysis FAQ
How electrolysis works, treatment planning, comfort, and what to expect at your appointments.
What is electrolysis?
Electrolysis treats individual hair follicles for permanent hair removal. It works with all hair colors and skin tones, and can address fine or coarse unwanted facial and body hair.
How does electrolysis work?
A thin, sterile probe is slid into the follicle’s natural opening. A small electrical current produces heat, a chemical reaction, or a combination of both to treat the hair follicle. The treated hair is then lifted out with tweezers.
Is it really permanent?
The goal is permanent removal of hair from the treated follicle. Repeated visits are necessary because hair grows in cycles. Hormone changes and other factors can also lead to new hair growth. Your electrologist can explain what is realistic for your treatment area.
What areas of the body can be treated?
Electrolysis can be used on many facial and body areas. Tell us which area you want treated so we can assess suitability and discuss a treatment plan at your consultation.
Will I need multiple treatments?
Yes. Plans vary greatly from person to person. Hormones, amount and texture of hair, size of the area, skin sensitivity, prior removal methods and growth cycles all affect the work needed to clear an area.
Who is a good candidate?
People seeking a permanent solution for unwanted facial or body hair. We provide care for women, men, trans people and teens. Individual suitability is discussed at a consultation.
What should I expect to feel?
People commonly describe warmth and a stinging sensation. Sensitivity varies by person and body area. Let your practitioner know how it feels; settings and pacing can be adjusted.
Is there more than one type of electrolysis?
Yes. Galvanic produces a chemical reaction in the follicle. Thermolysis uses high-frequency energy to produce heat. Blend combines the two methods.
How long can a full course take?
A course of treatment may range from about six months to two years. Individual treatment can be shorter or longer, depending on the area, amount of hair, changes in growth and consistency of appointments. We do not promise a fixed finish date.
How often should I book?
We recommend an individual schedule. Frequent appointments—often weekly, and generally no more than three weeks apart—may be recommended while actively clearing an area. Ask what fits your treatment plan.
What time am I charged for?
You are charged for the appointment time scheduled, rather than only minutes of active treatment. A new electrolysis client can start with a free 30-minute consultation.
Do you use disposable probes?
Yes. We use disposable probes.
How do I choose between laser and electrolysis?
Start with a consultation and read our laser page and electrolysis page. Point of Pride also provides the independent comparison linked below.
Electrolysis or laser?
Point of Pride offers an independent explanation of the differences, including how hair color, skin tone and your goals can affect the choice.
Read Point of Pride’s laser-versus-electrolysis guide ↗