All About It

Electrolysis is the only FDA approved form of permanent hair removal. There are three different types of electrolysis used depending on the hair type and previous methods of temporary hair removal. 

1. Galvanic - since 1875, this treatment reacts with the moisture and natural salt in your skin to create a destructive substance, lye. This substance destroys the parts of the hair follicle responsible for hair growth.

2. Thermolysis - using a high frequency vibration, heat is created to destroy the parts of the follicle responsible for hair growth.

3. Blend - a combination of the two previous methods. 

Each treatment the hair receives will result in the regrowth being lighter, finer and less noticeable until it is completely gone. Genetics and hormones cause our hair to grow at different rates and places on our bodies. Many clients may never need to return after completion of their initial treatment plan, while others may require regular touchups. 

Since electrolysis treats each individual hair, one by one, we have to be able to see the hair and remove it with forceps in order to treat it. Waxing, tweezing, sugaring, and threading can cause your body to stimulate more hair growth. It's important to discontinue any of these temporary removal methods as to not undo the progress you've made with your electrolysis treatment. Please just trim the area with a razor or scissors in between your appointments if needed. Two to four centimeters of growth is all we need.

Staying hydrated will give you a more comfortable and effective treatment. Well-moisturized skin (inside and out) reacts the best to electrolysis. It is also recommended to avoid caffeine for a few hours before your appointment. Caffeine can make you more sensitive to the treatments.

If using any serious retinoids or exfoliants, discontinue use in the treatment area for 1 week prior to your appointment. Stay out of the sun for at least 48 hours to avoid dilation of the blood vessels and sunburns.

Normal reactions from electrolysis are a little bit of redness and swelling at the area that was treated. This usually dissipates in a couple hours with proper care. 

• Keep the area clean with an astringent (no soap) for the first 24 hours

• Apply a cold compress to minimize swelling

• Tissue repair cream or aloe vera can be applied after cleansing

• Avoid exposing the area to UV light and excess heat for 24 hours. Apply sunblock.

• Avoid makeup or creams for 24 hours

• Don't exfoliate for 2 days prior to treatment and 5-7 days after treatment

• If treating underarms, don't apply deodorant for 24 hours after treatment. 

We will follow up at your next appointment on how your skin healed and make adjustments as necessary. 

Q: Will it hurt?

A: Most clients describe the treatment as a stinging sensation. We will work together to find a comfortable setting that is effective. Everyone's pain tolerance is different and if it proves to just be too much, we have numbing cream available for purchase in the office.

Q: How many treatments do I need?

A: Everyone is different and grows hair for different reasons. Due to many factors like hormones, medications, genetics, general health, previous methods of hair removal, there will be a different number of treatments and sessions required. It's important to follow the treatment plan discussed in your consultation to achieve the most effective results.

Q: Is electrolysis safe?

A: During your consultation we will review any medical history to make sure we are being safe. There are a number of things that could potentially restrict us from performing electrolysis or may require permission from your medical provider. 

Definitive Contraindications

• Blood thinners

• Cochlear implants

• Hemophilia

• Keloid scarring

• Pacemaker

• Pregnancy (1st semester, then not below the neck with Galvanic or Blend)

• Rosacea (active, in treatment area)

• Skin diseases, sunburn (in treatment area)

• Accutane use (wait 6 months after last treatment)

• Puberty (wait one year after onset of puberty, with parental signature if under 18)

Restrictive Contraindications

• Asthma/Respiratory disorders

• Other auditory devices

• Phlebitis/Thrombosis (in treatment area)

• Dermabrasion (in treatment area)

• Diabetes *

• Epilepsy *

• Certain medications *

• Heart conditions *

• Hepatitis, AIDS, HIV *

• High blood pressure *

• Recent laser/IPL (in treatment area)

• Local bruising/swelling

• Loss of tactile sensation (in treatment area)

• History of cancer *

• Lupus*

• Metal plates/pins (in treatment area, for Galvanic or Blend)

• Skin diseases/disorders

• Steroids

• Swelling

• Pigment disorders

*with permission from medical provider       

Information from https://www.sterex.com/resources/contraindications-electrolysis/

Q: Can you remove hair... down there?

A: Absolutely! As long as there aren't any other factors that make it unsafe for you to receive electrolysis, we can remove hair from any external body part. Following a hygienic regimen will help you reduce your risk of infection and enhance your overall health. 

Q: Do you accept insurance?

A: At this time, The Stubble Stop is not able to accept insurance for electrolysis. However, it may be possible to seek reimbursement for payment from your own insurance company. Working with your healthcare provider and getting a medical diagnosis is an integral part of that process. 

Q: Do you offer any discounts?

A: I do! There's a variety of ways to save on your electrolysis treatments at The Stubble Stop

10% off every day for military service members and their spouses

$100 savings for 5-hour pre-paid vouchers

20/20 referral program. (Ask for details)

Online review program. (Ask for details)

Other discounts occasionally offered. Watch on social media for opportunities to save!

What other questions do you have? I'm happy to answer any questions that you may have!