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Frequent Questions


Question - What causes unwanted hair?
Answer - Causes are, normal (puberty, pregnancy, and menopause) and abnormal hormonal changes (malfunctioning endocrine glands), due to genetic predisposition or to an acquired endocrine illness which effects the normal hormonal balance within the body. Some surgical procedures e.g.; oophorectomy and medications e.g.; steroids and birth control pills, shock, stress, and eating disorders can also effect the normal hormonal balance in the body. Some temporary hair removal methods can also stimulate and accelerate unwanted hair growth.

Question - Is there a permanent way to remove unwanted hair?
Answer - Yes. Electrolysis is the only proven method of permanent hair removal. There is prolific, misleading advertising to suggest that many temporary hair removal methods are permanent. CONSUMER BEWARE.

Question - Does electrolysis work?
Answer - Most definitely yes. Electrolysis has proven to be the only safe, permanent hair removal method for over 128 years. It has been the treatment of choice by both males and females of all ages. There can be no further hair growth when the full target area of the hair follicle has been successfully destroyed. The client must follow and complete a treatment program, to be included among the many thousands of satisfied clients.

Question - What is the target area?
Answer - Answer - It is the area within a follicle that contains the hair growth cells, the most rapidly dividing cells in the body, that must be destroyed to prevent another hair growing in that follicle.

Question - How does electrolysis work?
Answer - Electrolysis is achieved by sliding and positioning a fine needle into the natural opening of the hair follicle, a minute electrical current is emitted, measured in milliamperes, causing the destruction of the hair production area, usually referred to as the "target area". The loosened hair is then removed with forceps (tweezers).

There are three modalities used in electrolysis :
  1. Electrolysis - uses a galvanic current (direct current) causing a chemical destruction of the hair follicles' target area.
  2. Thermolysis - uses a high frequency current (alternating current) coagulating or desiccating the target area.
  3. The blend - uses galvanic and high frequency currents, these currents used sequentially or together enhance the effects of each other to destroy the target area.
All three modalities, applied with skill and precision, achieve permanent removal of hair.

Question - Will more hair grow?
Answer - If the destruction of the hair producing cells is complete, another hair cannot grow in that particular hair follicle. However, in the future, if hormonal changes continue, normal vellus (downy) hairs growing in untreated follicles, may be stimulated, and develop into full terminal hairs requiring further electrolysis treatments.

Question - How many treatments are required?
Answer - Numerous factors determine the successful number and length of treatments required.
  • A private consultation will identify some of these factors e.g. the skill of the electrologist, underlying health problems, medications, area of hair growth, extent of unwanted hair, stage of hair growth, moisture content and sensitivity of skin, etc. etc.
  • A series of regular treatments is essential to achieve success.
  • No two outcomes are identical.
  • A treatment program, mutually agreed upon, will maximize satisfactory results.

Question - How much does it cost?
Answer - The cost depends on the number and length of treatments required. The permanent cosmetic enhancement by electrolysis is an affordable investment.

Question - Does it hurt?
Answer - Pain tolerance varies with each individual, and treatment area. For extremely sensitive areas, a topical anaesthetic is available.

Question - Will there be any permanent damage to my skin?
Answer - There should be absolutely no permanent damage to the skins' surface, if you are receiving treatment from a well trained, competent electrologist.

Question - Can you remove the hairs from a mole?
Answer - Yes, hair can be safely removed from a mole, but only with the written consent of your physician.

Question - How do I choose a competent electrologist?
Answer - Investigate thoroughly and take the time to choose wisely based on the following information:
  • Take as much care as you would in selecting a doctor, dentist, registered massage therapist or any other personal service provider.
  • There should be a certificate from a school specializing in Electrolysis training, visible in the office.
  • Is the electrologist a member of a provincial and/or national association? Is there a currently dated association certificate on display in the office?
  • A professional electrologist will uphold the Canada Health Infection Control Standards and Guidelines.
  • Note: The use of a surgical microscope is becoming more common in Canada. Its use will enhance the effective outcome of electrolysis treatments, providing an added measure of confidence for you.
  • Choose a business that provides a clean, private and comfortable office, with equipment and technology that supports safe and reliable service.
  • You should be provided with a personal and confidential consultation, at which time you are able to obtain answers to all of your questions about the procedure, the proposed treatment program and the results to be expected. Take advantage of this consultation time to make an informed decision.

Question - Is electrolysis safe?
Answer - Yes electrolysis is safe, provided the strict regimen of infection control and aseptic technique, endorsed by Canada Health is conscientiously practiced. Single-use sterile disposable needles are essential. Biologically monitored steam sterilization of all instruments is essential. Universal precautions should be in routine practice. View Universal Precautions and Infection Control Contract for more information.

 

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