Microscopic Electrolysis

Electrolysis is the only FDA approved method of permanent hair removal. It works on all hair and skin types, unlike laser hair removal.

Please read our FAQ’s below to learn more about electrolysis.

Since each case is individual, a complimentary consultation will be performed to explain if electrolysis is right for you.

PRICING

• 60 minutes $99.00

• 45 minutes $74.25

• 30 minutes $49.50

• 15 minutes $25.00

Rate is $1.65 per minute. Minimum $25.00 Charge. There is an additional $5 charge if gold instead of stainless steel filaments are used.

Electrolysis FAQs

What is electrolysis?

Electrolysis is the only known process for permanent hair removal. The procedure was developed by a physician in 1875, and knowledgeable doctors have recommended electrolysis since that time. In order for the procedure to be permanent, a fine sterile disposable filament is carefully inserted into each hair follicle without puncturing the skin. The insertion must be in the proper direction of growth and to the correct depth in order to reach the cells which nourish the hair’s growth. The hair cells are the only skin cells that control the development of the hair, either making it grow darker, coarser, lighter, thinner, etc. Each hair must be treated individually. When the exact point is reached, a small amount of controlled electrical energy is discharged to the follicle, which causes the destruction of the hair’s regenerative cells. Sterile forceps are then used to painlessly remove the treated hair. When its regenerative cells are completely destroyed, the follicle can never produce another unwanted hair.

WHAT IS MICROSCOPIC ELECTROLYSIS?

Hair follicle openings are extremely tiny and so all Electrologists must use some type of magnification to give the client an effective treatment. The typical range of magnification used for electrolysis is from 1.75txs to 6txs. Our Zeiss Surgical Microscope’s highest magnification is 19txs. With this higher magnification the hair follicle openings are easily visible, which helps with accuracy. A much more effective treatment and less side-effects as we can see how the epidermis is reacting. Even very fine light vellus hairs are more visible.

What are the different modalities?

There are 3 different modalities used in electrolysis:

THERMOLYSIS (flash) uses a short wave alternating high frequency current, a single filament, and a fast timing coagulating the target area.

GALVANIC uses a single filament or multiple filaments, a direct current and a much longer timing being in the follicle for a minute at a time. Since this modality is so long and painful, Arthur Hinkel developed the BLEND method.

BLEND uses a combination of the the two currents (thermolysis and galvanic), making it a shorter timing (approx 10 seconds) and less painful than the galvanic on its own. Its a very effective method on difficult coarse hairs. Hydration is key as the galvanic current chemically reacts with the moisture in the follicle to produce sodium hydroxide. The thermolysis current then heats up the sodium hydroxide, which ultimately aids in destroying the hair growth cells. We use a HINKEL UC3+ blend machine which is a true blend machine and thermolysis modalities at Studio 1. During a consultation the modality best suited for you will be determined.

What causes unwanted hair?

98 percent of people have unwanted hair at some point in their life. Knowing the causes of excess hair can aid in the treatment plan. Some of the common causes are:

• Heredity (nationality)

• Glandular effects (puberty, pregnancy, menopause)

• Abnormal hormonal changes

• Endocrine Illness (PCOS)

• Medications (cortisone, birth control pills)

• Surgeries (oophorectomy)

• External influences (abrasions, sunburn, excessive scratching, waxing, shaving, dermaplaning, IPL treatments)

• Stress (excessive diet and exercise)

How long does electrolysis take?

Each case is individual. The overall length, frequency, and total number of treatments depend on many factors. These variables include the skill of the electrologist, the amount and texture of the hair, growth cycle of each hair, various normal or health-related influences, as well as the desires and commitment of the client. Although a series of treatments are necessary, continual improvement should be obvious. Unless there is new hair growth due to other factors, most cases will be completed within one to two years. For best results hairs should be treated in the anagen stage of growth. Generally the hair growth cycle of facial hair is 12 weeks. The first 1-3 months will be focused on treating hairs in the anagen stage. After the first 3-6 months treatments may get shorter in duration with longer periods of time between each visit. A crucial factor in the achievement of your goal is the maintenance of a regular treatment schedule, as necessitated by your hair growth. When you have a consultation a more complete evaluation of your treatment plan can be assessed.

Is electrolysis Safe?

Electrolysis is very safe when it is performed by someone with the proper training and sterilization methods. I (Erica) became a Certified Electrologist CE with 500 hours of training with a graduating mark of 98% from Swanson’s Canadian Institute of Electrology in 2000. I practice and adhere to Alberta Health Services standards . I am a good standing member of the Canadian Organization of Professional Electrologists (COPE national). I use sterile disposable filaments and gloves during each treatment. I wear a mask and have a shield on my microscope. I sterilize all instruments in a Clinical Medical Autoclave Sterilizer as well as sanitize all surfaces including door handles after each client.

Does electrolysis Hurt?

The filament is inserted into a pre-existing opening in the skin and is not puncturing the skin You will feel a warm sensation as the current enters the follicle to destroy the hair. Each individual has different pain tolerances and may experience more or less sensations than the next person. Our HINKEL UC3+ machine can administer cooling air on the area to help alleviate pain during blend treatments. At the end of each treatment we apply an antiseptic calming solution and perform cataphoresis soothing treatments. We offer 5% lidocaine anesthesia numbing cream for additional purchase to apply 30 minutes prior to your treatment for your added extra comfort.

After treatments effects:

Each client is different and their skin may react differently than the next person. A small honey colored crust might appear in the next few days following a treatment. This means that the area is healing. You should never pick this crust off, since it may cause a permanent lesion to your skin. Its important to keep the treated area very clean after each treatment. Avoid makeup, sun exposure, excessive sweating, scented products, exfoliation products (retinol, scrubs etc) on the area for the first 24 hours after your treatment. Redness and swelling go down usually within a couple hours after your treatment but can take up to 48 hours for extremely sensitive skin. Try to plan your treatments accordingly. During your consultation we will assess how your skin reacts and will wait 48 hours before proceeding with treatments.

How is laser different than Electrolysis?

Often there is confusion regarding permanent hair removal. Electrolysis is the ONLY FDA approved method of permanent hair removal. Some lasers are approved as permanent hair reduction only. There are many IPL (intense pulse light therapy) machines on the market advertising as laser hair removal. IPL machines are not true lasers. Often we have found over these machines may stimulate new accelerated growth of fine vellus hairs on the face causing them to become more terminal coarse hairs.

Laser does not work on all skin colours and hair colours since it targets the melanin (colour) in the hair. Best results with laser are darker hair on light skin. Laser can’t treat grey, blonde or red coloured hairs. Electrolysis is effective on ALL skin types & colours. Most people prefer not to use a laser on smaller areas or delicate areas such as the face since you must shave prior to your laser treatment. If a person is a candidate for laser they might want to do larger surface areas such as the legs with laser and finish up any leftover hairs that weren’t permanently destroyed with electrolysis.

For more information

To determine if electrolysis is for you, contact Studio 1 Spa Services to book a complimentary consultation.

For a better understanding of electrolysis please visit the Canadian Organization of Professional Electrologists COPE website www.electrolysis.ca or to find a Certified Electrologist in your area.