Electrolysis with Cathy - The first Visit & FAQ

Your First Visit: What to Expect

Taking the first step toward permanent hair removal is an investment in yourself. At Electrolysis with Cathy, we ensure your journey begins with clarity and comfort.

1. The Initial Consultation

Every treatment starts with a 30-minute private consultation. We’ll discuss your medical history, any previous hair removal methods you’ve tried, and your specific goals. This is a "no-pressure" environment where you can ask questions and we can assess your skin and hair type.

2. The Patch Test

To ensure your skin reacts beautifully to the treatment, we perform a small patch test. This allows us to calibrate our equipment to your specific sensitivity levels and demonstrates exactly how the sensation feels.

3. Your Bespoke Treatment Plan

Electrolysis is a journey, not a one-time event. Based on your hair growth cycles and the area being treated, we will create a tailored schedule. Whether you are visiting for a 15-minute facial touch-up or a longer session for surgical preparation, you will leave with a clear roadmap of your path to permanent results.

Frequently asked questions

Does the Clinic only work by appointments only?

Yes. Please contact the clinic for an appointment and we can set up a mutually convenient time for you to come.

Do I need to do anything beforehand.

It's a really good idea to be well hydrated, so please consider increaing your fluid intake at least 24 hours before treatment.

Please ensure the area to be treated is clean and free from makeup (if used of course).

Be on time! Cathy has appointments that are often "back to back" with the necessary cleaning time in between. If you're late, you may have a shorter session and be charged for the full session.

Is electrolysis uncomfortable?

Everyone experiences sensations differently so it is very difficult to answer. Most people experience a slight sting or maybe a warm sensation initially that lasts a fraction of a second. After a few hairs have been treated you'll more than likely settle into the "groove" and the treatment time passes quickly.

What side effects are there?

The most likely side effect you'll have is to get is some reddening of the skin in the treated area. This normally disappears within a few hours after treatment. Alternatively you may get little red spots on the treated skin and again these should disappear within 24 hours. Anything more than that, please contact Cathy. At your initial consultation Cathy will go through any possible reactions or side effects you may experience.

Is there any aftercare needed?

The final part of the treatment is the application of aloe vera, witch hazel gel, or Sterex Après Creme. Using one of these after your treatment will help the skin calm down. Cathy has supplies for you to buy if you wish. A bonus is that these treatments can also be used for other things like aloe vera may be used for sunburn.

Professional Aftercare Tip

The Golden Rule: For 24–48 hours post-treatment, avoid hot tubs, saunas, and heavy makeup on the treated area. Keep the skin clean and hydrated with the recommended aftercare gel to support the healing process. Also avoid touching or picking at the area after treatment

When can I apply makeup, go swimming etc after treatment

It is recommended that you don't apply makeup or go swimming for 24 hours after the treatment.

What are your hygiene sterilisation procedures?

Any treatment given by Cathy will comply with National and local standards. The standards are set by the Environmental Health Department and the Clinic keeps up to date with the latest methods and standards laid down.

The skin area to be treated will be cleansed with an antibacterial agent suitable for skin.

Only single use pre-sterilised probes are used, and will be opened in your presence immediately before the treatment starts.

Sterilisation of other equipment for each treatment is done by an autoclave to medical standards.

How much does electrolysis cost?

The cost varies depending upon the amount of treatment time. There is a mandatory initial consultation which costs £50, and where we discuss your personalised treatment plan. Treatment after that is based on the following time bands ...

1-15 minutes - £30

16-30 minutes - £50

31-45 minutes - £70

46-60 minutes - £90

What if i need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?

I require a 72 hour notice period. Less than 72 hours notice may result in you being charged still, or asked to leave a deposit for future treatment sessions.

What payments methods are available?

A bank transfer or cash are the preferred way of paying for the treatment.

What should I do if I have problems or concerns after treatment

Please contact the clinic and Cathy will help.

How do you safeguard my data privacy?

Cathy conforms and adheres to the guidelines and practices set down by the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) in the UK. Full details are available from Cathy but in brief they are:

Only the minimum and necessary information for your treatments will be collected.
You may request to see what data is held about you by the clinic & if there is an inaccuracy, it can be corrected.
A retention period of the data will last for 7 years after the treatment.
You data will not be shared with anyone else without your permission.
Your data may be held in paper form or electronically. In either case, the information will be held securely.

Electrolysis Myths

Top 5 Myths About Electrolysis — Debunked!

If you’ve been considering electrolysis for permanent hair removal, you’ve probably heard a lot of different things — and not all of them are true. Let’s set the record straight! Here are five of the most common myths about electrolysis, debunked.

Myth 1: Electrolysis Is Painful

The Truth: While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, most clients describe electrolysis as a mild stinging or warming sensation — similar to a tiny snap. Today’s technology allows us to adjust settings for your comfort, and many areas are more sensitive than others. We also offer tips and techniques to keep you as comfortable as possible during your session.

Myth 2: It Only Works on Certain Hair or Skin Types

The Truth: Electrolysis works on all hair types and all skin tones. Unlike laser hair removal — which can struggle with blonde, gray, red, or very fine hair — electrolysis targets the hair follicle itself, not the pigment. That’s why it’s FDA-approved as the only method for permanent hair removal.

Myth 3: It’s Outdated Compared to Laser

The Truth: Electrolysis has been around for over 100 years — not because it’s outdated, but because it works. It’s been refined with modern technology to be more comfortable and effective than ever. And while laser hair removal can reduce hair growth temporarily, only electrolysis is considered permanent by the FDA.

Myth 4: Electrolysis Causes Scarring

The Truth: When performed by a skilled, licensed electrologist, electrolysis is very safe and does not cause scarring. Some temporary redness or slight swelling is normal after treatment, but it fades quickly. Following proper aftercare helps ensure smooth, healthy skin.

Myth 5: It Takes Forever

The Truth: Electrolysis is a commitment, but it’s worth it. Hair grows in cycles, so multiple sessions are needed to target each hair at the right stage. But unlike other methods that require ongoing maintenance, electrolysis is designed to give permanent results.

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