Does it hurt?
At Northern Rivers Electrolysis, we use the most advanced technology in electro epilation, the Apilus Xcell Pro, it is unparalleled in efficiency, speed and comfort.
It is an old myth that you must feel pain for results. Communication is key, we can adjust the parameters and settings to cater to client comfort. While there will be a slight sensation of heat or tingling, it shouldn’t be painful.
In saying that some areas of the body are super sensitive, such as the upper lid and bikini area. You are welcome to use a numbing agent. I recommend 5% from the pharmacy, you can also get a 10% from the compounding pharmacy (on Tamar st in Ballina). I do ask that no numbing agent be used at the consultation.
How long does the treatment take?
Depending on pilosity and area to be treated, treatments can vary between 5 minutes and many hours (for initial clearing). At NRE, all appointments are time based and we will endeavour to give you an accurate estimate. Treatment time does not include pre-treatment installation and complimentary post-treatment Cataphoresis*.
How long until I will see results?
Unfortunately, this question cannot be answered as everybody is different and there are many determining factors.
The table below is a guide ONLY and there may be wide variation per client and area.
With each treatment the hair will weaken, until all growth cells are destroyed, which will lead to no hair growth in that follicle. The key is consistency.
It is also important to remember that hairs successfully treated will be permanently destroyed however untreated hairs have the potential to darken and change, due to natural hormonal changes, medicines or trauma. If you happen to have a hormonal issue, it is important to work with your doctor to control the situation.
I have PCOS can you help me?
One of the side effects of PCOS is hirsutism. This can be very hard on a PCOS Patient, as it can affect not only your physical but emotional and mental health. Luckily electrolysis is a proven method of permanent hair removal for PCOS sufferers. In saying this it is still very important to liaise with you doctors to help control and stabilise what is happening internally. Please remember hormonal imbalance can cause vellus hairs to turn terminal. Patience and consistency is key.
I have light fluffy hair, can it be treated?
Yes, one of the many benefits of electrolysis is that all hair and skin types can be treated. As long a we can see the insertion point clearly we can treat.
Can I have the treatment when I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, please let us know. We will not treat within the first trimester, however can treat with the thermolysis technique after this, avoiding breast and abdomen. We do prefer to have a letter from your doctor clearing treatment.
What is the difference between Laser, IPL and Electrolysis?
Laser and IPL are very different to Electrolysis & electro epilation.
Laser and IPL work on light refraction, destroying the melanin in the hair follicle. This is why they are permanent REDUCTION as they don’t effect the germinative cells of the follicle. Electro epilation targets each individual hair and the germinative cells, once they are destroyed the follicle has no way of re growing. All skin and hair types can also be treated with electro epilation, whereas laser and IPL you need contrast, which is why, preferably, the skin is light and hair dark. Unfortunately there can also be paradoxal regrowth with laser and IPL. This happens mainly to vellus hairs, where growth is actually stimulated. This may be because areas that don’t need to be treated are treated, or since a large area is treated at one time, there is less control and the hairs are not specifically targeted.
We often advise IPL or Laser to clear large areas, like legs, bikini and underarm. We then offer treatment for remaining hairs and if/when hairs return from the laser or IPL.
Can everyone have electrolysis?
While it is very uncommon, there are several contraindications to the different forms of electro epilation. Before we begin treatment, we will go through a thorough consultation to create a suitable treatment plan. In some instances we may not be able to go ahead, have to delay treatment or require a doctor’s certificate/ clearance. If your situation changes it is important to update your technician.
If you have anything specific to discuss please feel free to give us a call and we can advise you further.
What are the side effects?
There are possible side effects, including but not limited to;
- Redness on the treated area
- Slight swelling of tissue
- Warm sensation and/ or prickly feeling
- Headaches
- Appearance of small pimples or pustules
- Crusts
- Indurations
- Hyperpigmentation
- Hypopigmentation
- Pitting
If the post treatment plan is closely followed, reactions should be minimal and temporary. Please always advise NRE of your reactions at your following appointment and don’t hesitate to contact us with any concerns.
What areas of the body can be treated?
All areas of the body can be treated, except for inner ear and inside the nostril.
We offer definitive hair removal for Face, Legs, Bikini, Arms, Behind, Nape, Back, Underarm, Chest, Breast, and Abdomen.
Do you offer hair removal for transgender?
Yes! Please book a consultation and we can discuss a treatment plan. At present we do not offer gender re-assignment surgery preparation.
Where are you located?
The clinic is situated in my family home in East Ballina. It is a private, comfortable and calming space with separate access. We offer hair removal to all of the northern rivers, including Evans Head, Alstonville, Lismore, Casino, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Brunswick heads and Tweed Heads.