Electrolysis has been in use for the last 150+ years. It is safe, effective, and the only method of hair removal that is considered permanent by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Medical Association (AMA).

A very fine filament, called a probe, is inserted into the hair follicle alongside the hair shaft. A tiny amount of electrical current is then applied, destroying the cells at the base of the follicle that are responsible for hair growth.

During treatment, you'll feel a slight pinch that is slightly uncomfortable but should not be painful. You should not feel the insertion of the probe into the hair follicle or a tweezing of the hair as it’s being removed. The hair should easily slide right out of the follicle if it’s been effectively treated. Discomfort is minimal for most people, but keep in mind that some areas of the face and body are more sensitive than others and that individual tolerance varies greatly. Some people listen to music or a podcast or even take a nap!

The frequency and number of treatments needed will depend on several factors, including the amount of hair in the area being treated, genetics, hormones, lingering effects of any prior hair removal methods, sensitivity level, the hair growth cycle which can range from 3-12 weeks and a client’s ability to be consistent. Because of these variables, multiple treatments are necessary.

In general, appointments are the longest and most frequent in the beginning, then taper off as fewer and fewer hairs remain to be treated.

Electrolysis applies electricity to each follicle to eliminate the hairs one by one. It destroys the follicle so that another hair cannot grow. It is not a quick fix or one and done. It takes multiple treatments, patience, and commitment to a proven and permanent process that will rid you of unwanted hair, forever!

Laser hair removal is hair REDUCTION - maybe permanent, maybe not. High-energy pulses of light are used to target the melanin, or pigment, in the hair to hopefully damage the root enough so that the hair cannot grow back. Laser treatments are only effective on people with darker hair and ideally, light skin, so that the laser can ‘find’ the hair. It is not effective on white, gray, blonde, or red hair. People with darker skin (more melanin) run the risk of hypo-pigmentation, or white spots, if the laser can’t find the pigment in the hair and attacks the pigment in the skin instead. There is also a risk of burns or scarring, especially on the face.

Waxing, tweezing, sugaring, threading are techniques that essentially yank the hair out of its follicle. This can lead to breakage, scar tissue under the skin, distorted follicles, ingrown hairs and over time, can result in a deeper, thicker, more persistent hair!

Nearly everyone is a candidate for electrolysis. However, there are a few circumstances in which electrolysis isn't possible, may require a wait time, or need approval from your physician. For example, recent use of retinol products, Botox, active skin inflammations or infections, certain medications like topical steroids, and some medical conditions or devices. Please read the 'Your Appointment' section for more information.

Above the neck:

Chin, jawline, upper and lower lip, neck, sideburns, hairline and eyebrows, with the exception of inside the nose or ears.

Below the neck:

Shoulders, back, chest, breast, stomach, underarms, arms, hands, legs, feet, fingers and toes.

Like Velvet Electrolysis focuses on hair removal for women, based on experience and expertise. This ensures effective, personalized care and reflects the belief that clients are best served by practitioners whose practice and capacity align with their needs.