No one at all wants to take on Roselyn’s post for over 24 hours?
I deliberately didnt answer this question Roslyn because i felt of the team of really great electrologists on hairtell, there were others more qualified to answer this question better than I , who have treated a grand total of 2 clients ever of African American Descent.I live in a subsidized housing project amoungst many of similar ethnicity and a million other ethnicities , but they dont come get electrolysis from me, and wouldnt be in a financial position to do so. Those in the US come accross this skin type much more frequently and would therefore be more familiar with the treatment concerns. I will however make an attempt to convey what I do know to you.
When treating those of African American Descent, we can be talking about a vast array of skin tones ranging from almost tan to dark brown. We do see an increase in the incidence of hyperpigmentation in those of olive complexion, typically those of indian or pakistani/middle eastern descent.Hyperpigmentation however is not a treatment concern. While it can and is more commonly known to occur in olive skin tones hyperperpigmentation from electrolysis ALWAYS fadescompletely at the termination of treatment.I treat a lot of clients of idian pakistani descent and they know it can happen, but they have the information to not sweat it if it does.
What is of more of a treatment concern in African American heritage descendants is keloid scar formation or the susceptability to.My first African american client did have some pre-existing keloid formation. Its very difficult skin to perform electrolysis on. Those that treat this skin type on a more regular basis could comment further on how common keloid formation is.
Follicle shape takes on the shape of the hair. African American have very flat shaped hairs which results in very curled hair, and curled hair follicles.
In response to discomfort however, none of these treatment concerns have any bearing. I’m going to paste my canned response to my FAQ regarding pain management. The most important points you cantake from this are: get more than enugh sleep, reduce stress of all kinds.
Is electrolysis painful? What can you recommend to reduce discomfort?
In general the discomfort felt from electrolysis treatments is fairly tolerable. Some areas are more comfortable that others and the amount of discomfort felt is individual.
​Inquiries about reduction of discomfort in electrolysis is a question we receive often at the clinic . We utilize multiple techniques to reduce discomfort and to make treatments more tolerable.
The number one step to reduce discomfort is to reduce stress on mind and body. Stress of all kinds serves to increase the response to discomfort and pain. For this reason we recommend taking direct steps to reduce stress of all kinds immediately before an appointment. Stressful reviews at work, and stress in the home, are a good reason to be booking your electrolysis appointments at another time.
Getting enough sleep the night before your appointment will help to reduce stress and discomfort, and allow for longer duration electrolysis sessions.
Forms of distraction can help to reduce discomfort. These can include music over headphones, use of a stress ball, and several over techniques.
Caffeine, like stress, can serve to heighten the body’s response to pain or discomfort, and should be reduced or eliminated in the 24 hours prior to an appointment.
All forms of electrolysis utilize moisture in the follicle and the more moisture that is present provides for better results, and also serves to reduce discomfort. For this reason we do recommend that you are sufficiently hydrated. This is of important note most especially to our transgender clients who utilize spironolactone as an antiandrogen. Spironolactone reduces moisture in the body and you must be careful to stay hydrated. This can also be overdone however, and should be done in moderation.
A Tylenol or Ibuprophen taken 20-30 minutes before an appointment can help reduce pain.
Topical anesthetics such as EMLA or 5% Lidocaine applied to the skin before an appointment can reduce or eliminate discomfort, but caution should be used. 5% Lidocaine in the "Xylecaine’ brand can be purchased at most Walmarts for approximately $15 at the pharmacy counter, EMLA costs approximately $80 at Shoppers Drug Mart. Occlusion should be used (plastic wrap over the skin to prevent the anesthetic cream from rubbing off on clothing and surroundings). We recommend using Glad Press n Seal wrap for this purpose as it can be cut to shape and sealed against the skin in uncovered areas. While generally safe, we recommend you do not cover an area larger than an A4 piece of paper, and summon medical assistance in the case of a rare adverse reaction. Lidocaine and EMLA work better the longer beforehand they are applied, up to 2 hours before to get maximum effect.
Discomfort increases with the length of the session, but tolerance increases over time and is particular to the individual. Some may find long sessions quite tolerable, while others will have more difficulty. For this reason we normally recommend new electrolysis clients book appointments of an hour or less, and then allow for longer sessions as they are able to.
I hope you find this information helpful Roslyn.
Seana
