FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What causes excess hair growth?
Excessive hair growth in women can be caused by hormone imbalances due to menopause. Also, genetics can be the cause of excess hair growth in darker haired women and men. In some cases, certain medical conditions can be at fault. Excessive hair growth (also called hirsutism) can occur in both men and women. However, it is more generally a problem for women. Other causes of excessive hair growth are endocrine disorders and medications such as birth control pills, hormones, or steroids. Sometimes excess hair growth runs in families.

Will more than one electrolysis session be necessary?
The number of electrolysis treatments required for permanent hair removal depends on the area being treated and the stage of your hair growth (anogen, catogen, and telogen). Many factors influence hair growth: age, ethnicity, weight, hormones, diet, medication, and metabolism all play a part in your hair's location, thickness, and resilience. In essence, the number of sessions required depends on the individual.

What is the difference between electrolysis hair removal and laser hair reduction?

Electrolysis hair removal  has a long and successful history of permanent FDA approved hair removal.

Laser hair reduction is still in its infancy. Treatment with laser results in exposing the skin to unknown long-term risks. Known risks include hyperpigmentation and laser-induced hair growth. One of the biggest questions to ask before choosing laser hair removal is, 'How many times can a single area be exposed to the laser without causing cellular damage?" Remember, the "R" in laser stands for radiation.

Here are the major differences between laser and electrolysis

1. Pigment of the hair affects outcome

To be successful, the laser must target the melanin found in dark hair. However, with laser hair reduction, clients with grey hair, blonde hair, or red hair, there is no removal despite claims to the contrary. 

2. Percentage of hair removal success

Clients with laser only receive 40-80% hair reduction. If you do not implement another form of hair removal, the hair will NEVER be permanently removed. 

3. The FDA only approves electrolysis for permanent hair removal versus laser
which is defined as "permanent hair reduction." 

FDA Consumer Health Information Bulletin - 27 June 2007:
“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes electrology as providing permanent hair removal. The FDA identification in Title 21, CFR, Sec. 878.5350 for needle-type epilators is: “a device intended to remove the hair by destroying the dermal papilla of a hair”. As no other device for hair removal has the unique identification of “destroying the dermal papilla of a hair”, only electrologists are allowed to claim permanent hair removal in their advertising”.

Are any special preparations needed?
Any concerns you have will be discussed at your free consultation. It is always a good idea to write down your questions before your first visit. Shaving is not recommended prior to your electrolysis treatment but it is permissible between treatments. However, you should allow some slight hair growth to occur so your electrologist can see the hair growth to be removed.

What areas can be treated?
Face, legs, arms, underarms, shoulders, and back as well as the chest and bikini line can all be treated with electrolysis.

Is it expensive?
When compared to a lifetime of waxing, shaving, or purchasing depilatory creams, electrolysis hair removal is affordable, but most of all, it is a permanent solution! 

What form of payment is acceptable?

All Island Electrolysis accepts Venmo or cash.