Electrolysis
Developed more than 100 years ago, electrolysis is the only medically proven, Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved approach to permanently eliminate unwanted hair.
Electrolysis uses a small, sterile, disposable probe that applies a measured current to tissue at the root of hairs in the base of hair follicles. The approach permanently disables the follicle from producing new hair growth. In addition, electrolysis does not damage or burn external skin surrounding the follicle. “For this reason, patients who get electrolysis do not experience skin discolorations, scars, or pitting that can accompany other methods of hair removal.
At Morristown Electrolysis, our licensed, certified, and medically trained professionals use state-of-the-art, digital equipment to provide you with the high-quality, effective, and comfortable electrolysis treatments you want and deserve.
We also will develop a treatment plan that is tailored to and addresses your unique needs for beautiful, smooth, hair-free skin on almost any area of the body.
What is Electrolysis?
Originally developed in 1875 by Dr. Charles Michel, Electrolysis is now used to treat unwanted hair, safely and permanently, from any part of the body regardless of the type or color of the hair, skin or sex of the client.
The instrument used is a very fine sterile probe, usually thinner than the hairs themselves, inserted into the hair follicle alongside the hair shaft. There is no puncturing of the skin, therefore no bleeding. This insertion delivers a pre-measured amount of electrical current at the hair root level which destroys the hair growth cells. This process prevents the treated hair from ever growing back. None of the other hair removal methods delivers the permanency achieved by Electrolysis.
Modern computerized Electrolysis devices destroy the hair growth cells by chemical energy (DC), heat energy (AC), or a combination of both. The modality used is chosen by the Electrologist, based on numerous factors and what is best suited for the client. Those modalities are: Galvanic (chemical) , Thermolysis (heat) and the Blend Method (combined currents). All methods are effective, and deliver permanent results. The client should not feel the insertion, nor feel that the hair is being pulled out. When a hair is properly treated, the hair will usually slide out. Discomfort is minimal for most but individuals and areas being treated can vary in sensitivity, so analgesics (Tylenol, Advil etc.), topical anesthetics (Lidocaine, etc) and even ice can temporarily mitigate the discomfort.
Moreover, modern computerized devices deliver the treatments at higher speed and shorter timing thus providing the client with less discomfort as well as faster treatments than in the past.
How many treatments are required and what is the cost?
There are a number of factors that determine how many sessions will be needed, for example:
- The amount/density of the hair
- Genetics
- Hormones
- Overall health of the individual
- Medications
- Methods of previous hair removal
- Size of the area being treated
The length and the frequency of treatments depend on volume/density and previous methods of removal, therefore Electrolysis appointments are longer and more frequent initially, and taper off as the volume/ density diminish. The cyclical nature of hair growth is another important element, therefore, consistent scheduling of appointments is the key to the fastest success. Considering the cost, Electrolysis is a good investment because there is less initial cost per session. Moreover, considering the permanency that Electrolysis provides, there is an end date in sight versus temporary methods that never end with a lifetime of maintenance.
ELECTROLYSIS SOLUTIONS:
There are many reasons people – men and women, young and old, all lifestyles chose Electrolysis as the best choice for themselves for permanent hair removal. Whatever the specific problem area, age, gender, hair or skin color- Electrolysis can help as the permanent, safe and effective solution.
So then, who are these Electrolysis Solutions designed to help?
Women
Virtually all areas of the body can be subjected to unwanted
hair, especially those produced by hormones (imbalanced or not), in particular, on the face . Target areas are: upper lip, chin, cheeks, and the throat but other areas can be excessive due to genetics, medications etc. and appear on the chest, breasts, abdomen, torso and extremities. Although excessive hair growth on these areas may not be considered common, it is helpful to mention these areas as potential sites for hair growth, considering some women may have this problem and are uncomfortable in asking. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations and surges throughout life (puberty, pregnancy, menopause) as well as medical conditions such as PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), Thyroid and other glandular malfunctions, can be the culprit. Medical evaluation may be needed for the diagnosis but Electrolysis is the solution for the excessive hair.
Men
A well groomed appearance is important for men in business as well as socially, and Electrolysis is the solution for removing excess hair from ears, eyebrows, neck, beard and torso. In situations where men are dealing with ingrown hairs or naturally curly hairs on the beard/neckline which causes painful, inflamed skin irritations, Electrolysis can eliminate this problem. Manscaping is becoming the new measure for men who are concerned about their appearance. Moreover, many competitive athletes are now turning to Electrolysis for help with their competitive edge, such as runners, swimmers and cyclists. The rationale is to cut down on wind and water friction, sweat and better hygiene, in general.
Teens
As teens go through the hormonal influx during puberty and adolescence, physical changes can result in unwanted hair growth that produces a negative image of their appearance and damages a teen’s self-esteem. Under the parent’s guidance and permission, an Electrologist’s consultation can help.
Since modern Electrolysis equipment and insulated probes can provide a very comfortable treatment, many teens are more receptive than ever and choose Electrolysis as their first choice. The main areas of need generally are the upper lip for girls, and the unibrow for both boys and girls.
Dark Skin & Curly, Coarse Hair
When clients with higher levels of pigment come for permanent hair removal, they can be assured that a professionally trained Electrologists can safely treat the skin without damaging or darkening their skin. This occurs because there is no breaking of the skin; the probe slides down the open channel of the hair follicle to destroy the root alone. Other temporary methods can create inflammation while removing hair, and thus create hyperpigmentation. Additionally, clients with very coarse or curly hair are prone to ingrowns because the strands are thicker and get stuck beneath the skin, creating unsightly bumps. Temporary removal only makes this condition worse with possible scarring and discoloration. Electrolysis can safely and permanently remove these hairs as they present on the skin surfaces, allowing the skin to heal.
Transgender Clients
Electrologists have served members of the transgender community for many decades, and are aware of the importance of respecting your privacy, addressing you as you prefer by name and pronouns, and most of all supporting you on your personal journey. We are aware of how Electrolysis fits into the process, and are here to help you achieve that appearance, that sense of your unique self. For many seeking gender-affirmation, Electrolysis is the first step in the transformation by facial hair removal then progressing on to other areas of the body, including preparation for gender confirmation surgery. At that time, the specific instructions/protocols made by the surgeon are vitally important, and consultation with the Electrologist regarding the time frame needed for successful hair removal will be reviewed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes excess hair?
Hair growth can result from heredity, hormones, certain illnesses, and certain medications. In some cases, temporary methods for removing hair, including plucking/tweezing, waxing, and shaving can stimulate hair growth.
When hair grows in excessive amounts and in unwanted areas of the body such as the face, torso, or extremities, electrolysis can permanently remove it.
Does electrolysis really remove unwanted hair forever?
Yes! Electrolysis is the only medically proven method for permanently removing unwanted hair. Shaving, tweezing, waxing, and depilatories are only temporary solutions to managing unwanted hair. In addition, they can stimulate hair growth and irritate your skin. Electrolysis is the only proven method to safely and permanently eliminate unwanted hair while protecting the integrity of your skin.
Is electrolysis painful?
Most people find electrolysis comfortable or tolerable, depending on the area of the body to which it is being administered. Some people describe electrolysis as a quick pinch. The good news is that today’s state-of-the-art, sterile, disposable probes can be adjusted for comfort.
Can electrolysis permanently damage my skin?
No. Most people experience only minimal, temporary redness or swelling immediately after electrolysis treatment. Occasionally, small scabs or whiteheads may appear as part of the natural healing process of electrolysis treatment. But electrolysis will not permanently damage or scar to the skin.
What about cost?
In the long term, electrolysis can cost less than other hair removal methods because it is permanent. Unlike temporary hair-removal methods, electrolysis involves the skills of a licensed, certified electrologist and requires an investment that will result in a lifetime of beautiful, hair-free skin.
Is electrolysis approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)?
Yes. Electrolysis is approved by the FDA as the only permanent hair removal method.
What to Expect on the Day of the Initial Appointment
- Please arrive 15 minutes ahead of the scheduled appointment to fill out the Client History Form.
- Initial appointments start with a 15 minute consultation (complimentary). This time will be used for your electrologist to discuss your health history and create a treatment for you. After the consultation, you may also choose to have your initial electrolysis appointment (maximum of 15 minutes). We limit the first electrolysis appointment to 15 minutes to assess the skin’s reaction and sensitivity, regardless of previous electrolysis experience.
- Following your appointment, you will be given a post care regimen.
- Electrolysis probes are disposed of and all direct to skin instruments are sterilized after each use.
- Rooms and furniture are thoroughly disinfected between clients.
- Additional sterilization methods are used to sanitize during Covid or Flu outbreaks or other high-risk events.
Electrolysis Precare
To enhance your comfort and minimize temporary redness and swelling before your appointment:
- Avoid tweezing, threading, and waxing (these methods can distort root which make removal more difficult).
- Avoid strong exfoliation treatments (e.g., retinols 1 week prior to treatment).
- Any other cosmetic or dermatological treatment (e.g., injectables or surgery consult with your physician before scheduling an appointment).
- We recommend trimming or shaving the area 3-5 days prior to treatment for optimum results.
- Avoid direct sun exposure or tanning beds 24-48 hours before treatment.
- Stay hydrated and moisturized; hydrated skin provides a more effective treatment.
- Avoid caffeine day of treatment – this can increase your sensitivity to the procedure.
- Take Tylenol, Advil or another analgesic 30 minutes before treatment if needed for comfort.
- Apply an ice pack to the treatment area 5 to 10 minutes before your treatment (this is provided by the office).
Electrolysis Aftercare
- Apply an ice pack to the treatment area immediately after your treatment (this is provided by the office).
- Use a sea salt and water treatment to gently clean, soothe, and calm any temporary irritation or tenderness and to gently dissolve scabs and whiteheads.
- Dissolve 3 tablespoons of sea salt in 3 cups of warm water.
- Soak a clean washcloth or gauze in the sea salt mixture.
- Apply the moist, warm washcloth soaked in the sea salt mixture to the treatment area for 10 minutes – 2 to 3 times per day.
- An anti-inflammatory gel, such as aloe vera, will be applied by your electrologist and continued for 2-3 days after treatment.
- Avoid direct sun exposure or tanning beds 1 week after treatment.
- Avoid using make-up, lotions, or creams on the treated area for 3-4 days after treatment.
- Stay hydrated and moisturized with an aloe vera post treatment.
- Use of calming SkinCeuticals sunscreen to protect your skin may be used.
- Avoid touching or scratching the treated area – if you feel discomfort, experience persistent redness, swelling, whiteheads or any other unusual reaction for your skin, contact the office as soon as these symptoms appear.
We are here for you… If you have questions after your treatment, call us at 973.538.0366
Electrolysis Rates
Consultation only – Complimentary
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15 minutes $50
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30 minutes $90
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45 minutes $110
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60 minutes $125
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Each additional 15 min increment over one hour $30
We treat adults and adolescents of all genders, skin types and tones, and lifestyles.
