The ultimate guide to electrolysis: Everything you need to know before starting

At ElectroGlow Studio, many clients from Orpington, Bromley and the surrounding areas come to me after researching online and are wanting clear, trustworthy information before starting treatment.

If you're researching permanent hair removal, you’ve probably come across electrolysis — but you may still have questions.

• Is electrolysis really permanent?

• How many sessions does it take?

• Does it hurt?

• What should you do before and after treatment?

• Questions to ask to find the right therapist

Electrolysis has been used for over 100 years and remains the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal, but understanding how it works — and what to expect — can help you feel much more confident before starting.

This guide brings together the most important things to know before beginning electrolysis treatment.

What is electrolysis?

Electrolysis permanently removes hair by treating each hair follicle individually. A very fine sterile probe is inserted into the natural opening of the hair follicle. A small amount of energy is then applied to destroy the cells responsible for hair growth. Once successfully treated, that follicle cannot produce another hair.

Unlike laser hair removal, electrolysis works on all hair colours and skin tones, including:

• Blonde hair

• Grey hair

• White hair

• Red hair

Because every hair is treated individually, electrolysis is incredibly precise and ideal for smaller or more detailed areas such as the face, chin, upper lip or jawline.

Is electrolysis permanent?

Yes — electrolysis is the only method of permanent hair removal. Once a follicle has been successfully treated, it will not grow another hair.

However, hair grows in cycles, and not every hair is visible at the same time. This is why multiple sessions are required to progressively treat new hairs as they enter the active growth phase. Electrolysis is most effective when the hair is in the active growth phase (anagen), which is why timing and consistency of appointments matters.

Hormonal changes can sometimes trigger new follicles to produce hair later, which is why occasional maintenance sessions may be helpful for some clients.

You can read more about this in my blog: PCOS, Unwanted Hair & Electrolysis: What You Need to Know

How many electrolysis sessions will I need?

This is one of the most common questions people ask.

The number of sessions required depends on several factors, including:

• The area being treated

• Hair density

• Hair growth cycles

• Hormonal influences

• Previous hair removal methods like waxing or tweezing

Electrolysis works progressively, meaning that hair is permanently removed over a series of sessions rather than all at once.

I explain this in more detail in this article: How Many Electrolysis Sessions Are Needed For Permanent Hair Removal?

Does electrolysis hurt?

Most people describe electrolysis as a brief sensation of heat or a tiny pricking feeling. Comfort can vary depending on the area being treated, but modern electrolysis machines and personalised settings make treatments much more comfortable than many people expect.

Many clients are surprised at how manageable it feels — and some even find parts of the treatment relaxing.

You can read more about this in my blog: What Does Electrolysis Feel Like?

Thermolysis Vs Blend: What’s the difference?

Electrolysis can be performed using different modalities, most commonly thermolysis and blend.

• Thermolysis uses heat to destroy the follicle and is often faster, making it ideal for finer hair and efficient treatment.

• Blend combines heat with a mild chemical reaction inside the follicle and can be helpful for deeper or more stubborn hairs.

Different skin and hair types respond differently, which is why it’s important that your electrologist is comfortable using both methods.

You can learn more here: Thermolysis vs Blend Electrolysis: Which Modality Is Best?

What should you avoid before electrolysis?

Preparing properly for your appointment can make treatment more comfortable and more effective.

Some important things to avoid before electrolysis include:

• Waxing, threading or tweezing

• Excessive sun exposure

• Strong active skincare ingredients

• Arriving well-hydrated can also help your skin respond better to treatment.

These factors can affect how the skin responds during treatment.

I’ve written a full guide here: What Not To Do Before Electrolysis

How should you care for your skin after electrolysis?

Aftercare is important for supporting healthy healing.

Immediately after treatment you may experience mild redness or slight swelling around the follicles — this is a normal and temporary reaction.

Simple aftercare steps can help your skin recover quickly and comfortably.

These include:

• Keeping the area clean

• Avoiding heat and heavy exercise for 24-48 hours

• Avoiding makeup on treated areas

• Using gentle skincare

You can read the full aftercare guide here: How To Care For Skin After Electrolysis: A Week-By-Week Plan

How to choose the right electrologist

Choosing an experienced electrologist is important for both results and skin health.

Questions you might want to ask include:

• What equipment do you use?

• Do you perform consultations and patch tests?

• What modalities do you use and why?

• How do you tailor treatment plans?

If you'd like guidance on this, I’ve written a blog here: How To Choose An Electrologist: Questions To Ask Before Starting Electrolysis

Electrolysis in Kent (Bromley, Orpington, Sevenoaks)

If you're considering electrolysis the best place to start is with a consultation.

This allows us to:

• Assess your hair growth

• Discuss your goals

• Create a personalised treatment plan

• Answer any questions you may have

Electrolysis is a journey, but with the right approach it can provide life-changing permanent results.

Read more about: Why To Choose ElectroGlow Studio here

Frequently Asked Questions

If you still have questions about electrolysis, you can also visit my full Electrolysis FAQ page, where I answer many of the most common concerns people have before starting treatment.

If you're considering electrolysis and would like a consultation or patch test, you can book an appointment at ElectroGlow Studio in Chelsfield, serving clients across Orpington, Bromley, Sevenoaks and the surrounding areas.

📩 Have questions? Drop me a message—I'm here for you 🩷