Hidden Gem Electrolysis

Hidden Gem Electrolysis removes hair one follicle at a time using electrolysis, which the business presents as the only hair removal option it states can promise permanent results. It says electrolysis is recognized and approved by the AMA and the FDA, and notes that the FDA lists laser hair removal only as hair reduction.

Treatments are performed with the Apilus xCell device. The business says the method is quick enough that the sensation is barely noticeable. The energy type, chemical, heat or a combination, is chosen for each client based on hair, skin, medical history and comfort. Electrolysis can reach most areas of the head, face and body, including the chin, lip, jawline, underarms, bikini, legs and toes, and can be done on hair growing where a client has a tattoo without disturbing the tattoo. Session length depends on the area, depth, hair density and growth cycle and can run from 15 minutes to several hours.

Every new client needs a consultation before the first appointment, even someone who has had electrolysis elsewhere, and the client intake form must be completed beforehand. The free consultation includes a short test treatment and can lead straight into same-day treatment, which is offered on weekends too. Paid consultations are $50 on weekdays and $125 on weekends. Pricing is listed by session length, with weekday and weekend rates: 15 minutes $75 and $125, 30 minutes $100 and $140, 45 minutes $125 and $170, 60 minutes $150 and $200, 75 minutes $185 and $240, 90 minutes $220 and $280, 120 minutes $285 and $360, and 180 minutes $420 and $520.

Lash services include a lash lift, which reforms and curls natural lashes at $110 on weekdays and $165 on weekends, and a lash lift with tint at $135 on weekdays and $195 on weekends. The business states the lift lasts 6 to 12 weeks.

Booking requires a 50% deposit that goes toward the appointment. Cancelling within 48 hours of the appointment forfeits the deposit, and a no-call, no-show is charged the remaining balance. Refunds for cancelled appointments carry a $5 non-refundable card processing fee, and weekend appointments require full prepayment that is non-refundable. Before treatment, clients should stop tweezing, waxing and threading, though shaving or trimming between visits is fine. Sun exposure and tanning beds should be avoided for 48 hours beforehand, cosmetic injections need two weeks before electrolysis, and retinoids should be stopped at least one week before. Treated follicles usually take 24 to 48 hours to heal, so clients are asked not to rub, scratch or pick the area, and to avoid chlorinated pools, saunas, hot tubs and sunbathing for a period afterward. The studio is in Mission Valley at 7851 Mission Center Court, suite 115B. Walk in through the double doors, turn right before the elevator, then left at the mailboxes; the office is the second door on the right. Hours are by appointment only, and the business asks clients to text at 209-224-7931 when possible.

Treatment method is matched to each client's hair, skin, medical history and comfort, and electrolysis is presented as the only option the business states can promise permanent results.

The office is clean and bright, with ample parking and a private reception area.