Pillar: Electrolysis 101
Permanent Hair Removal, Explained Honestly
Electrolysis is the only hair removal method the FDA recognizes as permanent. A licensed electrologist inserts a fine probe into each follicle and applies a precise current that eliminates the follicle's ability to regrow hair — permanently, regardless of skin tone or hair color.
How does electrolysis work?
A licensed electrologist inserts a very fine sterile probe alongside each hair, into the follicle opening. A precisely controlled current is delivered to the base of the follicle, disabling its ability to produce a new hair. The treated hair slides out, and that follicle is finished.
Three modalities are used, sometimes in combination: galvanic (chemical), thermolysis (heat), and blend (both together). Your electrologist selects the modality that best fits your hair type and skin. Electrolysis has been performed in the United States since the 1870s and remains the only method with permanent-removal clearance.
Is electrolysis really permanent?
Yes. The FDA permits only electrolysis to be marketed as permanent hair removal. Laser is cleared as permanent hair reduction — it places follicles into dormancy rather than fully eliminating every one. Follicles treated with electrolysis do not regrow.
Hormonal conditions such as PMOS (formerly PCOS) and perimenopause can activate new follicles over time, which is why treatment plans account for regrowth cycles. Every follicle treated is finished — and any newly activated ones are treated as they appear.
How many sessions does permanent hair removal take?
Typical facial clearance takes 12–18 months of visits every 2–4 weeks. Hair grows in cycles and each follicle must be treated in its active phase, which is why clearance is measured in months of sessions, not weeks. Larger areas and denser hair take longer; your personalized plan is built at your consultation.
What does electrolysis cost?
Consultation + Treatment is $55. Individual treatments start at $70 for 30 minutes, up to $280 for 120 minutes. Memberships start at $135/mo, and prepaid packages start at $675. See the full price list on our Services page.
Does electrolysis hurt?
Sensation is typically described as a brief warmth or pinprick. Most clients find it very tolerable, and modern epilators are dramatically more comfortable than the older machines many people remember. Comfort options — including applying an over-the-counter numbing cream about 30 minutes before your appointment — are discussed at your consultation.
Questions people ask
- Is electrolysis really permanent?
- Yes. Electrolysis is the only method the FDA permits to be marketed as permanent hair removal. Each treated follicle is eliminated for good and does not regrow.
- How many sessions will I need?
- Typical facial plans run 12–18 months of visits every 2–4 weeks. Larger or hormonally driven areas can take longer. Your personalized plan is built at your consultation.
- Does it hurt?
- Most clients describe a brief warmth or pinprick and find it very tolerable. Comfort options — including an over-the-counter numbing cream applied about 30 minutes before your appointment — are discussed at your consultation.
- Does it work on grey, blonde, or red hair?
- Yes. Electrolysis doesn't target pigment, so it works on every hair color including grey, blonde, red, and fine vellus hair that pigment-based methods can't see.
- How is this different from laser?
- Laser is cleared as permanent hair reduction — it places follicles into dormancy and works best on dark hair against lighter skin. Electrolysis is cleared as permanent hair removal, works on every skin tone and hair color, and eliminates each treated follicle for good.
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New clients begin with a $55 Consultation + Treatment — assessment, plan, and 15 minutes of electrolysis.