Electrolysis Toronto FAQs
Below are the 10 most asked questions about my electrolysis process. Please read them thoroughly before you reach out to book an appointment. My website is thorough and contains all the information you need to book.
Electrolysis FAQs #1: What Is Electrolysis?
Electrolysis is a simple procedure to remove hair on the face and body. I target individual hairs with a probe inserted into the hair follicle. Once the current dissolves the follicle, I remove the hair. The timing and intensity of the current is based on hair and skin type. No hair is resistant to electrolysis. I treat all hair and skin types and everyone sees the same results.
Electrolysis FAQs #2: Can Electrolysis Scar My Skin?
The fear of scarring comes from misunderstanding the electrolysis process. The skin is NOT broken when I insert the probe into the hair follicle. I deliver electrolysis current under the skin, not to the surface. Swelling and redness are common side effects but any skin reaction subsides within a few hours to, in the worst case, a few days. I’ve written an essay about it here. It’s important to note post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a common side effect for some skin and hair types, but you should not mistake that for scarring. PIH is temporary.
Electrolysis FAQs #3: Is Electrolysis Painful?
Electrolysis does not hurt very much. The odd hair might cause you to wince, but overall my clients are relaxed during the treatment. The one exception is the area right under the nose, the skin there is thin so you might tear up or even sneeze. It is not unbearable for most people though, just uncomfortable.
Electrolysis FAQs #4: How Long Does Electrolysis Take?
The average time I see my clients is 7-15 hours. A dense coarse male beard can take as long as 30-40 hours. Clients often underestimate the amount of time it takes to clear an area of all hair. This is because it is difficult for you to see how much hair is actually present on your face or body unless you have an understanding of hair growth cycles. For every hair you see now you can count 6-8 hairs that you can’t see because they will not reach the surface of your skin for months. This is especially true on the face where there is a much higher density of hair growth than on the body.
Results are visible after the first or second treatment. Regular treatment is 1-3 times per month for 6-12 months, but less frequent appointments are still beneficial. The length of treatment time can’t be reduced because it takes this amount of time for all the hair to reach the surface of the skin. Some hair follicles lay dormant for months, or even a year or two, and then pop up when you thought you were in the clear! After the 6 month period most of the coarse hair is gone and we continue to treat the long fine hair, or the underbrush, as I call it.
Electrolysis FAQs #5: What Hygiene Practices Do You Follow?
Electrolysis probes are disposable. Tweezers are disinfected in 70% alcohol then sterilized in a medical grade autoclave. I clean touch surfaces between clients.
Electrolysis FAQs #6: How Can I Prepare For Electrolysis?
Stop all tweezing, waxing and threading immediately. You can shave or trim the hair (but it’s better if you don’t) until 4 days before your appointment. Please read my article on electrolysis aftercare and how to prepare for electrolysis.
Electrolysis FAQs #7: Can I Receive Electrolysis Treatment While Pregnant?
Yes. Toronto midwife Mary Sharpe told me that electrolysis is safe for pregnant women. I’ve had a number of clients who were pregnant or nursing over the years. There is no reason to stop electrolysis while pregnant or nursing.
Electrolysis FAQs #8: Does Electrolysis Work On Brown And Black Skin?
Electrolysis works on all hair and skin types all the time. Clients with black and brown skin must follow my instructions on aftercare due to the potential for PIH. Please see my advice on after care.
Electrolysis FAQs #9: What Method And Machine Do You Use?
I don’t discuss my tools and techniques because I focus on results. The machine doesn’t kill the hair, I kill the hair. The probe is of no concern to a client so don’t worry about that either.
Electrolysis FAQs #10: Are You Currently Accepting Clients?
I accept clients on a first come first served basis. I do not have a waiting list. My work is permanent so I shed clients regularly. Please read my Cancellation and Lateness Policy before you contact me to book. I prioritize the quality of my work over anything else so I work best with people who are as committed to getting rid of their hair as I am. Don’t worry I am pleasant enough and usually smiling but I am motivated to get to work quickly so you can see the results of your first treatment!