FAQ

Electrolysis is a process where an electrical current passes through a substance to effect a chemical change.In 1875, Electrolysis (a galvanic modality) was first used to remove hair permanently. Electrolysis is the general term used to describe hair removal that utilises a filament and an electrical current to denature the cells that cause a follicle to produce hair and encompasses all modalities.A skilled Electrologist uses a fine probe, calculates the precise amount of energy and time, and accurately inserts the probe into the natural opening where the hair shaft is visible from the skin. Then, they release the energy to denature the cells permanently and lift the hair out.

There are three modalities of Electrolysis, and they are all administered using a tiny filament or probe:Galvanic electrolysis uses a direct current; the client is involved and holds an indifferent electrode. The current decomposes tissue to denature cells responsible for hair growth. Galvanic takes many seconds per hair to achieve the desired results.Thermolysis, also known as diathermy, uses an oscillating, alternating high-frequency current to coagulate tissue, thereby destroying its growth potential. Thermolysis is significantly quicker, requiring only a few seconds per hair to achieve results. Flash Thermolysis uses a current as a pulse, which is very quick, lasting less than a second per hair, and requires skill. It is only available with computerised machines and the most efficient Electrolysis for permanent results available today.The Blend method is a combination of both Galvanic and Thermolysis, where the two currents bolster each other's activity and create an ideal heating pattern to destroy the growth potential. Blend takes a few seconds per hair and has evolved with the state-of-the-art technology available today.

Electrolysis is uncomfortable, feels hot and stinging, though many tolerate it well. The sensation is rapid and fleeting. Pain is subjective between individuals and varies depending on the area being treated. If you are struggling with the sensation, speak to your Electrologist; a skilled practitioner can adjust settings and give you options to help.

In some cases, all hairs will be removed and permanently treated in a single session, and they will not regrow; however, new hairs that were not visible at the time will become apparent within a few weeks. This is due to the hair growth cycles, which differ depending on the part of the face or body being treated. Electrolysis is a permanent treatment; a highly skilled practitioner can permanently remove hair in a single session.

Electrolysis is the only proven method of permanent hair removal. Laser can produce good results on some individuals and certain parts of the body only. Laser is not recommended for the face and areas where hormones govern growth. There are cases where lasers have stimulated hair growth, i.e., stimulating vellus tiny hairs to accelerate and develop into large terminal hairs.

Yes, anyone can have Electrolysis provided the hair is visible on the skin's surface. A significant number of people have chosen Electrolysis for a permanent solution to unwanted hair on the face and body. Electrolysis is highly targeted; therefore, other skin structures are unaffected, allowing areas that require shaping to be treated, such as eyebrows, beards, hairlines, sideburns, and more.

Yes, large areas and small areas are successful. For example, small areas such as the upper lip and eyebrows, and large areas like the legs and underarms. The inner ears and inner nose are not recommended as treatment areas for Electrolysis.

Yes, any skin or hair colour is successful as long as the hair is visible on the skin's surface. This includes grey and white hair.

Yes. Electrolysis can be performed safely on moles to remove unwanted hair. Your Electrologist will ask questions about the mole and ensure you consent to treatment for the hair removal from the mole. If the diagnosis is uncertain, your electrologist may refer you to your doctor.

During pregnancy, there are many hormonal changes; sometimes hair can be stimulated due to these changes, and the opposite can also occur. Although electrolysis has not been proven to cause any harm during pregnancy, we advise checking with your doctor before undergoing any treatment.

Yes, the tool used is also known as a probe or filament. It is as tiny as a hair, and all practitioners use sterile, disposable probes for every treatment and every client. Infection control measures and up-to-date risk assessments are carried out to ensure safety and hygiene standards are maintained.

The skilled Electrologist will ensure each follicle is ideally treated to ensure the potential of growth has been disabled. After a follicle is disabled, it cannot produce hair again, regardless of future changes.

Generally, desired results occur within 12-18 months. Larger areas require more extended sessions, while smaller areas may need shorter sessions. The Electrologist needs to ensure all follicles have visible hairs growing to disable the potential of growth. Treatments will be more frequent and prolonged in the initial sessions, and as the hairs are eliminated, the frequency and length of sessions will decrease. Some individuals and areas are more tenacious than others, requiring more sessions to clear the area. A thorough consultation will ascertain a plan that suits you and your goals.

Between treatments, it is recommended to either shave, trim or use a depilatory product. The most important thing to remember is that hairs need to be just above the skin level to be removed by electrolysis; if other epilation methods have removed them, electrolysis will not work. Check with your skilled Electrologist at Parkside to discuss temporary removal methods between sessions.

Depilation methods consist of shaving, trimming, depilatory creams and products. The depilation method removes hair just to or just below the skin's surface, without affecting or pulling the root of the hair.Epilation methods consist of plucking, tweezing, threading, waxing, picking, laser treatments, and other techniques that remove hair from the skin.Depilation methods cannot stimulate or change the nature of the hair and make it stronger or encourage more hair to grow. Epilation techniques can often change the nature of the hair, making it stronger, darker, and encouraging other smaller hairs in the area to grow thicker.

No. Any of the epilation techniques will hinder the treatment plan set out for you. Hair may not be visible so that it may be missed during treatment sessions. Additionally, hair will grow thicker, and the skin may be marked and potentially scarred from epilation techniques.

Yes. Electrolysis is the only proven permanent method for hair removal. The medical profession recognises it, and it has a history of over a century of use. There are numerous testimonials from individuals who have achieved success with electrolysis treatment, solving their unwanted, excessive hair problem and transforming their lives.

The cost will depend on the area(s) being treated and the location of the practitioner. In larger cities where the cost of rent and rates are higher, the hourly rate may be higher. Given that electrolysis is permanent, the price is very reasonable. Practitioners have expensive equipment, insurance costs, premises, etc. The fees charged are reasonable in comparison to other temporary methods where treatments will be ongoing.

The electrologist can give you an idea of the length of a session to clear the area. Still, the number of sessions will depend on the previous epilation techniques taken, the location of the face and body and the density.

Electrolysis performed by a skilled practitioner will not cause scarring. Scarring is a permanent mark or pit in the skin, visible approximately 2 years after the treatment or event. Temporary marking on the skin, such as pigmentation, small, very flat scabs, and light crusts, is a standard skin response during the treatment process. Marking on the skin gradually fades and improves as the treatment plan progresses; the skin is left as it was post-treatment. As if the hair was never there, and the skin identical to the surrounding skin.

Many factors influence the choice of a practitioner, including the internet, personal recommendation, shop fronts, and sometimes the medical profession. To ensure quality service, look for practitioners or businesses that regularly update their knowledge and skills through CPD (continued professional development) and are members of reputable professional organisations, such as the BIAE (British Institute and Association of Electrolysis).

Ideally, you should come with clean skin and hair natural without being trimmed, shaved, or epilated. However, this may not be possible due to social and work commitments; therefore, ensure the hair is visible just above the skin level, and we can do the rest. For blemish removal, ensure the blemishes are not inflamed or bleeding, and if on the body, wear loose, non-restrictive clothing.

Unlike hair removal, the tiny filament/probe does not enter the skin; instead, the probe is used to reduce or remove the blemish above the skin level. The blemish is treated, and the skin will develop a scab – nature's plaster. After approximately 2 weeks, it will naturally fall off, revealing new pink or lighter-coloured skin.

The result will depend on the blemish being treated. Larger, deeper lesions may leave a lighter coloured mark that may return to the standard skin colour over time. Equally, a darker pigmented mark may result and fade over time.

In most cases, a single treatment is sufficient to remove or reduce a lesion successfully. If the lesion is extensive, it may require a follow-up session and may be treated purposefully in stages.

We prefer to allow the skin to heal without coverings; however, if the area needs to be temporarily covered due to clothing, then a light porous dressing is acceptable without antiseptic creams. At Parkside Electrolysis & Aesthetics, we provide a small tub of calamine powder to keep the area dry for the first 48 hours until the natural scab forms and the skin has its natural protective barrier.

Preferably not, the skin is prone to infection after treatment, and the skin has yet to form a stable scab to prevent bacterial invaders. Exercise before treatment and keep the area dry for the first 24-48 hours. Your skilled practitioner will advise.

They are non-surgical cosmetic procedures designed to enhance your appearance and give you confidence. Common treatments include fillers, anti-wrinkle injections, skin boosters, needling and chemical peels.

They are very safe when performed by a trained, qualified, and experienced practitioner. At Parkside Electrolysis & Aesthetics, we use approved, high-quality products and regularly update our skills and knowledge. We follow strict hygiene protocols.

Generally, healthy adults are suitable. A thorough consultation and consent to treatment are required before treatment. There are conditions such as pregnancy, some skin diseases and disorders and medical issues that are not suitable for treatment.

The choice of aesthetic treatment depends on its longevity. During consultation, the treatment goals are discussed, which determine how long the treatment will last before requiring a follow-up. Generally, aesthetic treatments last 2-6 months and are gradually metabolised.

Most aesthetic treatments have mild discomfort; however, numbing creams are often used to help with the sensation and make the procedure as comfortable as possible.

There may be some downtime depending on the treatment. It is common to experience redness, bruising, temporary bumps, and sometimes tiny scabs. All these reactions are temporary and can be covered with makeup, lasting only a short time.

Come with clean skin (if possible), avoid stimulants such as alcohol 24 hours before, coffee, smoking and blood thinning medication (to reduce bruising) unless it is a prescribed medication, then check with your GP.

At Parkside Electrolysis & Aesthetics, we will provide verbal and written aftercare advice for all ACP, Electrolysis and Aesthetic treatments. Generally, keep away from heat, makeup, strenuous exercise, suntanning, including sunbeds, and preferably no alcohol for 24 hours.

As a rule, the desired results start to be apparent 2 weeks post-treatment, and a review appointment can be booked for any adjustments and to discuss treatment options.

Side effects with aesthetic treatments are rare, but if you have a concern, please get in touch with us first. We are here to support with any questions you may have post-treatment and help you reach your personal goals and feel good about yourself.