Frequently asked questions
Clear answers before you begin.
Explore detailed guidance about how electrolysis works, treatment planning, comfort, aftercare and advanced cosmetic procedures.
01 · Electrolysis basics
Understanding the treatment.
What is electrolysis?+
Electrolysis is a method of permanent hair removal. A very fine probe is introduced into the natural opening of an individual hair follicle, and a controlled amount of energy is applied to target the cells responsible for hair growth.
How does electrolysis work?+
The probe follows the natural path of the hair rather than piercing the skin. Depending on the technique, energy produces heat, a chemical reaction, or a combination of both inside the follicle. The treated hair is then gently removed.
Are there different methods of electrolysis?+
Yes. The three established approaches are thermolysis, galvanic electrolysis and blend. Thermolysis uses heat, galvanic produces a chemical reaction, and blend combines the two. Fatos selects the approach and settings for the hair, skin and treatment area.
Is electrolysis permanent?+
Electrolysis is a permanent hair-removal method when the growth cells of the treated follicle are successfully targeted. Hormonal or physiological changes can activate previously untreated follicles later, which may look like regrowth but is new hair activity.
Does electrolysis work on every skin tone and hair colour?+
Yes. Electrolysis treats the follicle directly and does not depend on contrast between skin and hair pigment. It can therefore be used on dark, light, red, grey and white hair and on all skin tones.
What areas of the body can be treated?+
Most facial and body areas can be considered, including the upper lip, chin, jawline, cheeks, eyebrows, neck, shoulders, arms, underarms, chest, abdomen, back, bikini line and legs. The inside of the nose and ear canal is not routinely treated.
02 · Treatment planning
Appointments and progress.
How many treatments will I need?+
There is no universal number. The area, quantity and structure of hair, hair-growth cycles, hormonal influences, previous removal methods and consistency of appointments all affect the plan. Fatos will give you a more useful indication after assessing the area.
Why can’t every hair be removed in one appointment?+
Only visible hairs can be treated, and hair follicles move through different growth and resting phases. New hairs become visible over time, so regular appointments are normally needed to work through the cycles.
How long does the overall process take?+
The timeline varies widely. A small area with limited hair may progress relatively quickly, while dense or hormonally influenced growth can require a longer course. Treatments are often more frequent at the beginning and less frequent as the amount of hair reduces.
How long is each appointment?+
Appointments are available from 15 to 75 minutes. The best length depends on the size of the area, the amount of visible hair and your comfort. If you are unsure, contact Fatos before booking.
What does electrolysis feel like?+
People commonly describe a brief heat, tingling or stinging sensation. Sensitivity differs by person and body area. Settings and timing can be adjusted within an effective range to support comfort.
Can I remove hair between appointments?+
Avoid tweezing or waxing because the hair needs to be present in the follicle for electrolysis. Trimming or shaving may be suitable. Ask Fatos how to prepare the specific area between visits.
03 · Safety & aftercare
Looking after your skin.
Does electrolysis damage the skin?+
When performed correctly by a trained professional using appropriate equipment, electrolysis is designed to treat the follicle while supporting normal skin healing. Temporary redness or swelling is common. Tiny scabs or small whiteheads can occasionally occur and should not be picked.
Are there side effects?+
A short healing response can include redness, warmth, swelling or pinpoint scabbing. The response varies with the area, skin and intensity of treatment. Fatos will explain what to expect and how to care for the area.
What infection-control measures are used?+
A new pre-sterilised disposable probe is used for each client. The treatment area is clinically prepared, disposable gloves are worn, and reusable instruments are cleaned and managed in line with professional hygiene procedures.
Can I have electrolysis during pregnancy?+
Pregnancy can affect hair growth and treatment decisions. Seek advice from your GP or midwife before beginning or continuing treatment, and tell Fatos that you are pregnant so suitability and the treatment area can be considered.
Can hair growing from a mole be treated?+
Some cases may be considered only with appropriate medical confirmation. If a mole is new, changing or uncertain, it must be assessed by a GP or dermatologist before any cosmetic treatment.
Do home electrolysis devices work?+
Professional electrolysis depends on accurate probe insertion, suitable settings, magnification, lighting, hygiene and trained hand-eye coordination. Attempting to treat yourself makes these factors difficult to control and may increase the risk of ineffective treatment or skin injury.
04 · Advanced electrolysis
Minor skin blemishes.
What is advanced electrolysis?+
Advanced electrolysis applies a controlled current through a very fine probe to treat certain benign cosmetic skin concerns. The exact technique depends on the type, size and location of the blemish.
Which concerns may be suitable?+
Examples include some skin tags, milia, thread veins, spider veins, cherry angiomas, seborrhoeic warts, sebaceous hyperplasia and dermatosis papulosa nigra. An assessment is required because not every mark is suitable.
Can every blemish be treated?+
No. Treatment is for eligible benign concerns only. Fatos may decline treatment or ask you to obtain medical advice if the appearance or history of a mark raises any uncertainty.
When should I see my GP first?+
Seek medical advice if a mark is new, changing in size, shape or colour, bleeding, weeping, painful, persistently irritated or otherwise concerning. Cosmetic treatment should not be used in place of diagnosis.
Will one appointment be enough?+
It depends on the type, size, number and response of the blemishes. Some concerns may be completed in one visit, while others may require more than one treatment and a period of healing between appointments.
05 · Booking & prices
Practical questions.
How much does electrolysis cost?+
A test patch is £45. Hair-removal appointments range from £65 for up to 15 minutes to £185 for up to 75 minutes. Visit the Prices page for the full list.
How is blemish treatment priced?+
Prices start from £80 and depend on the type, size, location and number of eligible blemishes and the treatment time required. An accurate price may only be possible after the area has been assessed.
Do I need a test patch?+
A test patch may be recommended when you are new to electrolysis or when Fatos needs to assess your skin response, hair and treatment settings before planning longer appointments.
How do I book?+
Use the online booking calendar to see live availability and appointment lengths. If you are unsure what to select, email or call Fatos before booking.
Please note: These answers provide general information and do not replace individual assessment or medical advice.
Still have a question?
Ask Fatos directly.
Describe the treatment area or concern and Fatos will help you choose the right next step.