Hair Removal FAQs

Why are you offering hair removal services?

We initially set out to provide hair removal services for our transgender clients. We felt there was a need to provide both laser and electrolysis. We also wanted to establish an additional service that wasn’t tied to the unpredictable nature of the insurance industry.

Do you have to be transgender to use our hair removal services?

Not at all. We are happy to address “ANY HAIR, ANYWHERE.”

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What’s the difference between laser and electrolysis?

Laser is FDA cleared for Permanent Hair Reduction. Electrolysis is FDA approved for Permanent Hair Removal. Laser and electrolysis use different technologies: Laser uses specific wavelengths of light to destroy the hair follicle; “Blend Electrolysis” combines the methods of thermolysis to heat the hair follicle and the galvanic method of destroying the follicle by causing a chemical reaction.

Laser is significantly faster than electrolysis, but does require at least 5-6 treatments to achieve maximal clearing. Electrolysis is literally done “one hair at a time,” but is a superior method for people who are not good candidates for laser.

It’s fair to say that with both electrolysis and laser, people may have “tune-ups” from time to time – not a “one and done” treatment.

Why goes it take so many treatments to clear an area?

Hair grows in cycles. We clear hair in the first phase of its growth. But hairs that are more mature, or on the verge of falling out, will be captured in a later treatment. (That’s why even people who have “Massive Electrolysis Clearings” must have several treatments.)

Does it hurt?

For many people, no. But for others, yes. We have prescription strength numbing cream to apply on site. There’s no additional charge for numbing cream. If needed, we can prescribe oral pain relievers and/or anxiety medications – but you must have a driver for a safe trip home.

For the sensitive upper lip and chin area, we can perform a dental block.  We can also perform genital  blocks for folks who are preparing for Gender Affirmation Surgery. Dental or scrotal blocks are priced at $75 per block.

Does laser work on everyone’s hair?

Some people are not good candidates for Laser Hair Reduction – particularly people with lighter colored hair. Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us, though, if you have gray, red or blond hair. It all depends on the amount of pigment you have in your hair. (Laser will work if you have naturally brown or black hair and have dyed it blond or red.) Laser is most effective on brown or black hair. And there are some people – even with brown or black hair – who do NOT respond to Laser for genetic reasons.

What if I have white or very light hair?

Electrolysis will work, and we provide this service also. There are, of course, the many other ways of temporary hair removal, i.e., waxing, shaving, plucking, threading, etc.

What kind of laser do you have?

We have the VECTUS by Cynosure. This is a diode laser which is used ONLY for hair reduction.

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Does laser turn hair gray?

If laser is applied to an area consisting of brown and gray hairs, the laser will treat the brown hairs and leave the gray ones behind. The remaining hair will appear more gray – but just because the brown hairs are gone. Laser does not “turn” hair gray. You may want to treat the leftover gray hairs with electrolysis, or one of the temporary methods of hair removal.

Who will be handling hair removal services at your office?

Electrolysis is provided by one of our specially trained electrologists and laser by our Master Aestheticians.

Is financing available?

Ask for an application for CareCredit, or apply to CareCredit online. This service allows an individual to borrow the amount needed for services, and pay it back to CareCredit interest free in a reasonable amount of time. (Interest is charged if you exceed the time allowed.) Electrolysis is provided by one of our specially trained electrologists and laser by our Master Aestheticians.

Is it appropriate to tip the provider of hair removal services?

It is never a requirement to tip anyone! You may tip the electrologists or Master Aestheticians if you like. We ask that you NOT tip Dr. Gromko or the Nurse Practitioners.

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