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1. What is electrology?
Electrology is the science of permanent hair removal
utilizing only solid needle/probe
devices. A fine sterile needle/probe is inserted into the hair follicle
and a small amount
of electrical energy is discharged which destroys the hair growth
tissue. When this is competently and skillfully accomplished, the
regenerative ability of the hair follicle is permanently eliminated.
2. What
are the three basic methods used in the practice of electrology?
Electrolysis --- Direct current (DC), is used to achieve
chemical destruction of the hair
follicle. One or more sterile needles/probes are used.
Thermolysis --- Alternating current (AC), sometimes
referred to as high frequency or shortwave, is used to create heat
which destroys the hair follicle. One sterile needle/probe is used.
The Blend (also referred to as Dual Modality) --- Both of the above
currents are used simultaneously or sequentially to achieve dual action
destruction of the hair follicle. Most often, a single sterile
needle/probe
is used for this procedure.
3. Is
electrolgy the only method of permanent hair removal?
Yes.
Electrology is the only scientifically proven method of permanent hair
removal. Temporary methods such as shaving, tweezing, depilatories,
waxing and stringing
require frequent time consuming maitenance. Skin irritations, ingrown
hairs, discoloration, and scarring may result.
These methods contribute to an increase in hair growth activity.
4. Why
should I choose electrology over other hair removal methods?
If you want permanent hair removal, electrology is the
only way to achieve this goal.
5. Do
electrologists follow appropriate Infection Control Precautions?
The American Electrology Association (AEA) has written
Standards for Infection Control in the electrology practice
following the most recent material on infection control from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the
Association for Practitioners in Infection Control and Epidemiology
(APIC). The consumer of electrology treatments should request
information from the electrologist about the Standard Precautions used.
Standard Precautions includes handwashing, the use of gloves,
sterilization of critical items used in electrology treatments, the
proper disinfection of semi-critical and non-critical items, and the
proper cleaning of environmental surfaces.
6. How
many treatments are required?
The number of treatments necessary varies with each
patient/client. Factors such as hair growth cycles, the quantity
and structure of hair presented, previous use of temporary hair removal
methods, heredity, hormone function, normal physiologic changes,
certain medications and stress influence the treatment program for each
individual. It is very important to adhere to the recommended treatment
schedule to achieve optimum results in the shortest time frame. Some
improvement should be observed within several months after initiating
treatment, provided the patient adheres to the recommended treatment
schedule.
7. Are
all hairs eliminated in one treatment or is regrowth to be expected?
Deep, coarse hairs cannot always be eliminated with one
treatment; thus, breaking down the hair germ cells may require
additional treatments. During the course of treatment and due to the
cyclic nature of hair growth, new hairs as well as hairs emerging from
a dormant phase will also be treated and may be visible the same time
as finer regrowth hairs.
8. What
is the normal growth cycle of a hair?
All hairs have differing cycles of growth and are not
visible on the surface of the skin at the same time. Hair normally
grows for its usual cycle and then naturally sheds and replaces itself.
Following active growing periods, most hair follicles go into a dormant
stage. The period of dormancy may last for an indefinite period of
time, however, replacement hairs usually appear within 3 to 12 months.
The appearance of these coarse replacement hairs from dormant hair
follicles should not be mistaken as regrowth from previously treated
follicles.
9. Is
electrology uncomfortable?
It is impossible to destroy hair growth tissue without
sensation because each hair follicle is surrounded by its own network
of nerve endings. The sensation, which may be felt, is assurance that
destructive activity is taking place. Even though some parts of the
body are more sensitive than others, adjustments can be made which
helps to make the treatment more comfortable.
10. Does
electrology have any side effects on the skin?
Immediately following treatment, there may be a slight
redness and/or swelling which usually disappears within a few hours.
Occasionally, small whiteheads or tiny scabs may occur. It is important
to remember that scabs are a part of the normal healing process in some
people. If scabbing does occur, the patient is advised to not pick them
off. When electrology is administered by a qualified electrologist
using state-of-the-art technology and techniques, the results are most
sastisfactory.
11. Can
unwanted hair be removed from anywhere on the body?
Unwanted hair can be safely removed from most body
areas. The most common areas include the hairline, bridge of nose,
eyebrows, upper and lower lip, cheeks, sideburns, chin, neck,
shoulders, arms and underarms, breasts, abdomen, bikini line, legs back
and chest. The inside of the ears and nose should not be treated.
12. Can
women begin or continue electrology treatments during pregnancy?
Although
electrology has never been proven harmful to pregnant women, we suggest
that you seek the advice of your physician before beginning treatment.
13. Can hairs be removed from moles?
State licensing laws and/or some general liability
insurance policies may prohibit removal of hair from moles. In cases
where neither of the above restrictions exists, your electrologist may
require written approval from your physician.
14. How should I choose an electrologist?
Regulation of electrology is on a state-by-state basis.
States regulating the practice of electrology require a practitioner
hold a valid license.
Membership in the American Electrology Association indicates the
electrologist is keeping current with their field. Look for
certificates, with current dates, as evidence of professionalism.
The American Electrology Association has established specific standards
for the profession including a national board certification credential,
Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE). This designation indicates
that the electrologist has successfully passed comprehensive national
testing. Once awarded the CPE credential, the electrologist must
fulfill continuing education requirements and/or be re-tested in order
to maintain the prestigious CPE status.
Many people find an electrologist through the Yellow
Pages of local directories that contain valuable information regarding
professional credentials. Sometimes, family and friends can make
excellent recommendations. Also, one can ask a physician who is
familiar with electrology for a referral.
In states where the law allows, most electrologists offer free
consultations. Begin your journey with us as we help you find a
solution to the unwanted hair that has been holding you back. We invite
you to visit the American Electrology Association Member Referral
Directory at
www.electrology.com
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