HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE REQUIRED?
The number
of treatments necessary varies with each person. Factors such as
hair growth cycles, the quantity and structure of hair presented,
previous use of temporary hair removal methods, heredity, hormone
function, normal physiologic changes, certain medications and stress
influence the treatment program for each individual. It is very
important to adhere to the recommended treatment schedule to achieve
optimum results in the shortest period of time.
IS ELECTROLYSIS UNCOMFORTABLE?
While
electrolysis is a very comfortable procedure, it is impossible to
destroy hair growth tissue without any sensation, because each hair
follicle is surrounded by its own network of nerve endings. The
sensation which may be felt is assurance that destructive activity
is taking place. Even though some parts of the body are more
sensitive then others, adjustments can be made which will help to
make the treatment remain comfortable.
CAN ELECTROLYSIS BE PERFORMED ANYWHERE ON THE BODY?
Unwanted hair can be safely
removed from most body areas. The most common areas include the
hairline, bridge of nose, eyebrows, upper and lower lip, cheeks,
sideburns, chin, neck, shoulders, arms, underarms, breasts, abdomen,
bikini line, legs, back, and chest. The inside of the ears and nose
should not be treated.
DOES ELECTROLYSIS DAMAGE THE SKIN?
When a
competent electrologist using up-to-date equipment and current
techniques performs electrolysis, there shouldn't be ANY skin
damage. Immediately following treatment, there may be slight redness
and/or swelling which usually disappears within a few hours.
Occasionally, small whiteheads or minuscule scabs may occur. It is
important to remember that scabs are a part of the normal healing
process and will not cause any permanent damage if they are not
picked off. Your electrolgist will discuss specific post-treatment
care to promote proper healing.
ARE ALL HAIRS ELIMINATED IN ONE TREATMENT?
Deep, coarse hairs cannot
always be eliminated with one treatment; thus, breaking down the
hair germ cells may require additional treatments. During the course
of treatment and due to the cyclic nature of hair growth, new hairs
as well as hairs emerging from a dormant phase, will be treated and
may be visible at the same time as finer reqrowth hairs.
WHAT IS THE NORMAL GROWTH CYCLE OF HAIR?
All hairs have differing cycles of growth
activity and are not visible on the surface of the skin at the same
time. Hair normally grows for its usual cycle and then naturally
sheds and replaces itself. Following active growing periods, hair
follicles go into dormant phase. This period of dormancy may last
for an indefinite period of time, however, replacement hairs usually
appear within 3 to 12 months. The appearance of these coarse
replacement hairs from dormant hair follicles should not be mistaken
as re-growth from previously treated follicles.
WHAT INFECTION CONTROL PRECAUTIONS ARE TAKEN?
The American Electrology
Association (AEA), with the assistance of the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC), developed national Infection Control
Standards that include sterilization of all electrology instruments
which may have parenteral contact. Pre-sterilized, single-use
disposable needles are recommended. The standards are consistent
with standard precautions safety which includes hand washing and use
of a fresh pair of disposable gloves for each treatment. Your
electrologist will thoroughly discuss this important issue with you.
WHAT IF I'M PREGNANT?
Although electrolysis has
never been proven harmful to pregnant women, it is suggested the
advice of your physician be sought before treatment. This office will only use Thermolysis in pregnant women.
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