Varied Skin Types
Dry, Oily, and Mixed Skin Types
Electrolysis can be effective on any skin complexion! The electrologist’s job entails catering the right intensity, modality, and technique to your skin type. However, electrolysis requires moisture to work as the current acts on the electrolytes present in our follicles. Regular hydration and moisturizing is important for maximizing treatment efficiency and minimizing discomfort.
Moles, Freckles, and Pigment
Unlike laser treatments, which may blanch freckles or other pigments, electrolysis has no effect on skin pigmentation. Nor does pigmentation affect electrolysis. The only exception shown in the literature is for a subset of those experiencing changes to pigmentation during pregnancy, in which case we would work on a small test area before proceeding with full treatment.
For those concerned with hair growing on or around moles, please consult your dermatologist before proceeding with treatment. While there is no evidence that electrolysis can contribute to melanoma, it’s always best to consult with your doctor first, especially if you notice any changes in shape or pigment.
Acne and Scars
Electrolysis can be performed on skin with acne, just not on any active sores or pimples. As long as there are spaces between, we can work to clear the hair that often exacerbates acne. If your condition is severe enough that the treatment area is completely affected, please consult a dermatologist first. If your skin is particularly prone to acne, be extra careful to keep the area clean and not touch it after treatment!
Scars will not prevent electrolysis from being effective either! There are two considerations with them, however: first, they tend to distort the follicles so that treatment can be slightly slower and may require additional touchup treatments, and second, if you are prone to keloids we will need to do a small test area and let it heal before proceeding with further treatment.