Q: Is there an age restriction for electrolysis?

A: I wouldn’t recommend electrolysis until a child is old enough to hold still on their own. Also, it would be helpful for them to understand basically what electrolysis is. Other than being too young, there aren’t any other age restrictions. The oldest person you know of is welcome to have electrolysis done on them, if they’re interested!

As far as women and periods go, increased sensitivity to electrolysis is common.

Pregnant women can still get permanent hair removal, but they must use thermolysis only (a modality of electrolysis involving only heat).

Q: Is there an age restriction with laser hair removal?

A: Don’t treat girls until 2 years after period has begun. Laser hair removal is more sensitive when on period. Don’t treat pregnant women.

Q: Are there areas that can’t be worked on with Electrolysis?

A: An electrologist may choose not to work on areas that are irritated with dermatitis/eczema or cold sores.

Q: Are there areas that can’t be worked on using laser hair removal?

A: Tan areas, active infections, herpes/cold sores, tattoos, and areas that have used photo-sensitizing medication (Accutane, etc).

Q: Does electrolysis hurt? Are there areas that hurt more than others?

A: It’s not pain-free. I think it’s tolerable, though. Fingers, toes, upper lip, and anything along the center line of the body can be more uncomfortable. The treated areas may be tender for a short time.

Q: Does a physician need to be responsible for electrolysis?

A: No, it is not necessary to have a physician present while treating hair with electrolysis.

A laser machine has the potential to cause more serious injuries than an epilator, or electrolysis machine.

A responsible electrologist should always have insurance.

Q: Is electrolysis safe?

A: Yes.

It is not necessary to wear eye protection or have a physician available, unlike laser hair removal.

Q: What type of skin/hair works/doesn’t work by treating hair with electrolysis?

A: Electrolysis works on all skin and hair types.

Yes, electrolysis can treat people with dark skin! Yes, electrolysis can treat people with blonde, red, and gray hair!

Q: How do I need to prepare for my electrolysis appointment?

A: Your hair should be long enough for tweezers to grab the hair. It should just be breaking through the skin. Therefore, your hair does not need to be long.

Wear appropriate clothing. If you are treating your underarms, wear a tank top. If you are treating your bikini line, wear underwear or a swimsuit that has the line you are wanting.

Q: Where is a good place to get electrolysis done?

A: It really doesn’t matter where you go to get electrolysis done. Many electrologists work in salons, spas, offices, or at home.

It matters more where you’re comfortable to go.

Some people prefer not to be in a public place because they may feel embarrassed if someone sees them. Some may not want to go to someone’s home if they don’t know the person. Then, there are those who don’t mind either way. You decide.