Excess hair or unwanted hair may be caused by a variety of reasons. The majority of the causes of excess hair, however, fall into a category called “organic hirsuitism”. This is the functioning of the various organs of the body, especially the glands.  Other causes of hirsuitism (the abnormal abundance of hair growth) are stress, medication, irritation, pregnancy, surgery, and possibly diet.

Does It Hurt? Most people do not find electrolysis painful but there is a sensation of a pinprick.  Some areas are more sensitive than others.  Generally, what is felt will not be any more painful than if you removed the hairs with a tweezer. There are times when patients have fallen asleep during treatment.

Is It Really Permanent? Electrolysis is the only permanent, safe method of removing hair.  When the hair papilla and follicle have been treated properly and effectively, that hair will be gone forever.

How Long Will It Take? This is considered the most difficult question to answer.  Hair grows in 3 distinct phases; anagen, catagen and telegen.  Anagen is when the hair is active and growing; catagen is when the hair stops growing and begins a resting phase and telegen, a shedding stage, is when the hair becomes dormant and not growing for a time.  So it does take time to effectively treat each hair that is currently above the skin, and those not yet showing themselves.  Next, skin type and location of hair must be considered.  If you have thin, sensitive skin, electrolysis treatments must be done at a slower rate. Finally, regularity of treatments will save you money in the long run due to shorter overall time needed to remove all hair visible and those not yet visible.  Even though it is difficult to give a definite time frame, you should see a definite reduction in amount of hair after each treatment.

How Much Does It Cost? Rates for electrolysis vary, a national average would be between $30 and $62 per treatment. When considering cost, take into consideration the cost in dollars and time you will spend on temporary methods which will continue forever. Now when looking at electrolysis, consider you are taking a permanent step towards removing this unwanted hair forever. The advantage is obviously electrolysis.