Treatment Areas Ideal Candidates Electrolysis vs Laser vs Waxing Preparing for Your Visit

Electrolysis
Hair Removal

The only FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal. Electrolysis works on every hair color and every skin tone — including light, grey, red, and blonde hairs that laser cannot effectively treat. Sessions are scheduled 2–4 weeks apart.

Treatment Areas
Electrolysis permanent hair removal at Rivage Day Spa, Birmingham MI
Only FDA-Approved
Permanent Removal
Works on All
Hair Colors
Works on All
Skin Tones
Precise &
Targeted
Most Requested

Areas We Treat

Electrolysis can treat most areas of the body. It is especially well-suited for smaller, detail-oriented areas and for hair colors that laser cannot effectively target. Electrolysis should not be performed inside the ears or nose.

Face & Brows
Underarm
Bikini
Abdomen & Breasts
Candidacy

Who Is Electrolysis Best For?

Electrolysis is ideal for anyone seeking permanent hair removal — and it is the best option when laser is not effective. Because electrolysis targets the follicle directly rather than relying on pigment contrast, it is the treatment of choice for:

Ideal For
Light, blonde, grey, white, or red hair that laser cannot target
Darker skin tones where laser settings may need to be limited
Small, detail-oriented areas such as the eyebrows, upper lip, and chin
Hormonal hair growth conditions such as hirsutism or PCOS
Clients who have already completed laser and have remaining lighter hairs
Compare Methods

Electrolysis vs Laser vs Waxing

Electrolysis at Rivage Day Spa Birmingham MI Electrolysis
Laser hair removal at Rivage Day Spa Birmingham MI Laser
Professional waxing at Rivage Day Spa Birmingham MI Waxing

Electrolysis

Only FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal
Works on all hair colors — including light, grey, red, and blonde
Works on all skin tones
Treats one follicle at a time — precise and targeted
Best for smaller areas and detail work (brows, lip, chin)
Requires multiple sessions over 12–18 months for full clearance

Laser

FDA-cleared for permanent hair reduction (not removal)
Most effective on dark hair with lighter skin tones
Less effective on light, grey, blonde, or red hair
Treats larger areas quickly — back, legs, bikini
Typically 6–8 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart
Some regrowth possible — maintenance sessions may be needed
Learn About Laser

Waxing

Temporary hair removal — smooth results last 3–6 weeks
Works on all hair colors and skin tones
Quick, affordable, and no long-term commitment
Ideal for large areas — legs, back, bikini
Hair regrows and sessions must be repeated
Perfect for maintenance between events or vacations
Learn About Waxing
Before Your Appointment

Preparing for Your Electrolysis

To ensure the safest and most effective results, please review the following guidelines before your electrolysis appointment at Rivage Day Spa.

Pre-Treatment Guidelines

  • Allow hair in the treatment area to grow to "tweezable" length — approximately ⅛ to ¼ inch.

  • Do not wax, tweeze, or thread the treatment area for at least 2 weeks prior. Shaving is permitted.

  • Arrive with clean skin free of makeup, lotions, or sunscreen in the treatment area.

  • Avoid caffeine before your appointment, as it may increase skin sensitivity.

  • Stay well hydrated before your session — hydrated skin responds better to treatment.

  • Please inform your technician of any medications, skin conditions, or implanted medical devices (such as a pacemaker).

Please Review

Health Considerations & Contraindications

Active skin infections, open wounds, or rashes in the treatment area
Pacemaker or implanted defibrillator — a doctor's note is required prior to treatment
Use of Accutane within the past 6 months
Uncontrolled diabetes — consult your physician before scheduling
Active cold sores or herpes simplex in the treatment area
Sunburn in the area to be treated
Active cancer in the treatment area or currently undergoing cancer treatments without physician clearance
Use of photosensitizing medications — check with your physician or pharmacist
Keloid-prone skin — consult a dermatologist before starting treatment

If any of the above apply prior to your appointment, please contact us to reschedule so we can provide you with the safest and most effective treatment.

Post-Treatment Care

  • Temporary redness and slight swelling in the treated area are normal and typically resolve within a few hours.

  • Avoid touching the treated area with unwashed hands to reduce the risk of irritation.

  • Avoid makeup, heavy creams, or fragranced products on the treated area for 24 hours.

  • Avoid sun exposure and apply SPF 30 or higher daily on the treated area.

  • Skip hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, and intense exercise for 24 hours.

  • Do not tweeze, wax, or pick at treated areas between sessions. Shaving is permitted.

When to Contact Us

  • Redness or swelling that persists beyond 48 hours.

  • Signs of infection such as increased pain, pus, or persistent warmth.

  • Any concerns regarding your treatment.

Scroll to Top