Temporary methods of hair removal cause unseen damage to the skin such as distorted hair follicles, peli-incarnardi recurvis pseudo-folliculitus (inflamed, ingrown, and infected hairs which are most difficult to treat). Follicullitus and other diseases of the hair may be seen.

Waxing is not only wholesale plucking but also pulls off the top layer of skin. Razor or shaving causes a callousness of the skin, which will encourage heavier hair growth and irritation with localized pustules and ingrown hairs.

All temporary methods of hair removal must be recorded in detail and initialed by the patient so that they are aware of just exactly what damage they may have done to themselves before commencing electrolysis treatment. A meticulously detailed diagnostic case history is the difference between average and excellent electrologists.

1. Waxing? ________________________

2. Tweezing? ________________________

3. Depilatories? ________________________

4. Abrasives? ________________________

5. Razor? ________________________

6. Laser? ________________________

All the temporary methods listed above actually increase hair problems and distort the hair follicles, which can require a more prolonged series of electrolysis treatments.

Fact number six Lasers are now being used to stimulate new hair-growth in balding patients. The reason is the heat from the laser dilates the blood vessels (capillaries), which in turn nourish the hair. One must take into consideration that every hair has its won individual blood supply and heat will dilate capillaries and henceforth increase the blood supply and nourish and invigorate and stimulate new hair growth.

AIDS questions should be asked in all case histories. If you do not have, at a minimum, a basic AIDS screening test in your case history, you run a serious risk to all your patients' health and welfare, but you also endanger yourself and loved ones. The most serious consequences can result if you are careless about treating without surgical gloves. Always use proper personal protective equipment!

Listed below are basic AIDS questions. Always use common sense and remember not to panic your patient by making rash judgments or statements.

1. Have you had a recent weight loss without dieting?
      
   Unexplained weight loss without diet or exercise is a symptom of AIDS. Use common sense, however, and rule out recent surgery or other medical or psychological condition that might cause weight loss.
    
2. Any long-term diarrhea?
      
   The cause of diarrhea should ruled out, for example flu or food poisoning.
   
3. Cold sweats?
     
   Cold sweats, particularly night sweats, along with long-term diarrhea and unexplainable weight loss, are indicators of AIDS. As you go through the history have a calm approach and relaxed manner, especially when completing this part of the history.
   
4. Loss of appetite?
    
   Another symptom of AIDS; however, remember to ask if they might have an ulcer or other problem.
   
5. A feeling of malaise or tiredness all the time?
    
   These are classic symptoms, but you must eliminate work-related stress or depression, or chronic fatigue syndrome. Remember not to jump to conclusions.
   
6. Blood transfusion in the last five years?
     
   Most patients who require a blood transfusion from loss of blood due to severe anemia, surgery and injury are screened for AIDS. If the patient does not appear healthy, then ask that they get a blood test or a letter from their physician stating they are free of AIDS and other contagious diseases.
   
7. Wounds that do not heal well?
     
   This is a symptom of AIDS. Document and rule out other medical conditions such as diabetes.
   
8. Drug abuse or I.V. drug use?
     
   Never work on a patient who you suspect is using drugs, whether inhaled, ingested or used intravenously. The risk of AIDS is very high in drug abusers due to their lack of personal hygiene and multiple sex partners. Take some simple precautions if you are suspicious. Ask to look at the hair on their arms as part of your evaluation of their overall hair problem. Look for needle marks (tracks) or any unnatural appearing skin condition. Be discreet and make your inspection appear part of the overall examination.
   
   If a patient states he or she has used drugs in the past but no longer uses them, you can work on them after you receive a letter from their doctor documentating that their AIDS test is negative and which states that they have no contagious disease. (Remember, with AIDS, there is a "window period" during which patients may not test positive.)  You must use discretion when completing this part of the case history.  Do not state that you are completing an AIDS screening until done.  And don't forget, hepatitis B and C is also commonly found among drug addicts. 
   
9. Do you have AIDS or are you HIV positive?
     
   This may sound redundant, but I put this question at the end of the questionnaire for a reason.  Asking this question shows your care and interest in your patients' welfare.  Every patient I have asked felt good about the AIDS questionnaire and are pleased that I took precautions for their safety and mine. AIDS is an equal opportunity disease, which can strike any electrologist who does not properly screen his or her patients. AIDS is preventable, and you are taking great risks with a disease that gives you no second chance.