What causes excess hair growth?

Excess hair growth is often caused by hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated androgens, and is common in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). When it appears in a male-pattern distribution in women, it's called hirsutism. Genetics, certain medications, and underlying health issues can also contribute. In some cases, the cause is unknown. It is best to consult with your doctor for better answers.

What is the difference between electrolysis and laser? How can laser make hair growth worse in certain areas?

Laser hair removal and electrolysis are both methods used to reduce unwanted hair, but they work differently and have different long-term effects. Laser hair removal uses light energy to target pigment in hair follicles, damaging them to reduce hair growth over time. It's faster and less painful than electrolysis but often requires multiple sessions and works best on dark hair and light skin. Electrolysis, on the other hand, uses a tiny probe to deliver an electric current into each hair follicle, destroying it completely. It’s more precise and the only FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal, though it can be time-consuming.

However, in hormonal areas—like the chin, upper lip, or jawline in women—laser hair removal can sometimes stimulate hair growth instead of reducing it, especially if hair is fine or light. This phenomenon, called paradoxical hypertrichosis, happens because the laser’s heat may activate dormant follicles in hormone-sensitive areas. For people with underlying hormonal issues, like PCOS, laser can sometimes worsen the problem unless the hormonal imbalance is also being treated.

How many electrolysis sessions will be required?

Multiple electrolysis sessions are almost always necessary to achieve permanent hair removal. Each hair follicle needs to be treated during its active growth phase (anagen), but not all hairs are in that phase at the same time. Also, hair grows in cycles, and new follicles can become active over time, especially in areas affected by hormones.

Other factors like hair density, the size of the treatment area, hormonal activity, and how your body responds to treatment can influence how many sessions you’ll need. Most people require 15 to 30 sessions or more, spaced out over several months to a year. The process is gradual, but with consistency, electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal.

Is electrolysis expensive?

Electrolysis can be costly upfront, with sessions ranging from $30 to $100 and multiple treatments needed. However, since it offers permanent results, it may be more cost-effective over time compared to years of spending on waxing, shaving, or creams, which add up and only offer temporary results.

What areas can be treated with electrolysis?

Electrolysis can be used to treat almost any area of the body where unwanted hair grows. Common treatment areas include the face (such as upper lip, chin, eyebrows, and sideburns), underarms, arms, legs, bikini line, chest, abdomen, back, and even fingers or toes. It's safe for all skin tones and hair types, and because it targets individual follicles, it's ideal for shaping small areas like eyebrows or removing stubborn hairs in sensitive spots.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any further questions.