Are you unsure whether electrolysis is the best method to get rid of your unwanted hair or blemishes? The best thing to do is to book a consultation with a Sterex-qualified electrologist who will be able to put you at ease and decide if it is the right treatment for you. The vast majority of electrologists will not charge you for your consultation.
However, if you like to have all of the information before meeting with a practitioner, here are the answer to the vast majority of questions people ask before their treatment.
1-Are there any skin conditions that stop me being able to have electrolysis?
Electrolysis can only be performed on a healthy skin. If there is any evidence of a skin disease or disorder in the treatable area then treatment may not commence. Some conditions may prevent treatment until the skin has healed e.g. cold sores, eczema or active acne etc. Some conditions may prevent treatment such as vitiligo. During the consultation the area to be treated will be assessed and in some cases the electrologist may require written consent from your Doctor prior to treatment.
2-Can I give blood during a course of treatments?
It is safe to give blood as an electrolysis client as all materials are sterilsed and disposable. Although, when donating the nurse may suggest that you have to wait 12 months following your last treatment. It is advisable to check with your blood donation centre first.
3-Can I have electrolysis while I’m pregnant?
It is possible to have an electrolysis treatment during pregnancy as the tiny amounts of current used will not affect the pregnancy. Although you may that salon/clinics will not offer treatment during the first trimester. There are 2 methods of electrolysis mainly offered in salons today, the blend method and short wave diathermy. The blend method allows the current to flow through the body and short wave diathermy remains at the tip of the needle. Some salons/clinics may prefer to offer short wave diathermy only to pregnant clients.
4-I have a pacemaker, can I have electrolysis?
Unfortunately, electrolysis is not offered to clients with a pacemaker. This is for the safety of the client. Electrolysis uses an electrical current to treat the hair and this could affect the pacemaker. Some pacemakers are insulated, and it is possible to offer the treatment. Firstly, it is advisable to obtain a letter of consent from both the G.P. and the pacemaker manufacturer. Also check that your insurance will cover you.
5-Can someone with dental fillings or braces still have electrolysis?
There are usually two methods of electrolysis offered, short wave diathermy and the blend method. The blend method may leave a metallic taste experienced in the mouth, therefore, if you have a lot of fillings or metal braces, the short wave diathermy method may be preferred.
6-I regularly go swimming and to the gym. How long after treatment I can resume my fitness regime?
We usually recommend that swimming (if in a public pool) gets a night off while the skin calms down to ensure no minor infection can happen. If the skin has returned to normal and is not hot or warm, sore, pink or red and no sign of any swelling then there should be no problem. Your electrologist will advise you during the initial consultation.
7-I’m going abroad in 2 weeks’ time can I have electrolysis before I go?
This depends on where you are going, the area that you are having treated and the density of the hair growth in this area. Holidays, even sunbathing beach holidays, should be fine, as long as the skin has fully recovered from treatment and there’s no sign of sensitivity. Your electrologist will advise you following a skin analysis and knowing your medical history. For example, if you are a heavy smoker or a diabetic you may heal slower and this must be taken into account.
