Electrolysis Essential Pre- & Post-Treatment Care Tips

Following these guidelines will help keep your skin healthy and maximize the effectiveness of your electrolysis treatments.

 

Before Your Treatment

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water for 2–3 days before your session.

Well-hydrated skin allows hair to release more easily, making treatments smoother and more comfortable. Avoid caffeine and other dehydrating beverages the night before and on the day of your appointment to help maintain optimal tissue hydration, which enhances relaxation and comfort.

Arrive Early for a Stress-Free Experience

Rushing increases stress levels, which may affect your comfort during treatment. Arriving 5–10 minutes early allows time to relax, use the restroom, and transition smoothly into your session. Your punctuality also ensures you receive your full appointment time without feeling rushed.

Ensure Proper Hair Length

For the most effective treatment, hair must be long enough for the electrologist to grasp. Hair that is too short may compromise accuracy and take up valuable treatment time. Lighter-colored hairs, such as blond or white, may need to be slightly longer for proper visibility.

Arrive Clean & Fresh

To maximize treatment time and effectiveness, please arrive with clean skin, free of thick foundation or deodorant. A light exfoliation before your session can also help if dead skin cells are blocking hair openings.

Avoid Tweezing Between Sessions

Only remove hairs you want to keep. If necessary, hair may be trimmed but must have a few days of growth for effective treatment.

Tweezing disrupts progress, as it takes weeks to months for a new hair to emerge from the same follicle. Refraining from tweezing significantly improves treatment efficiency.

If You Shave or Trim

Shaving does not make hair thicker; it simply removes the natural tapered end. If you shave, ensure a few days of growth before your session for optimal results.

Immediately After Treatment

In-Office Post-Treatment Care

Immediately after treatment, we cleanse the area with an antiseptic and apply a cooling gel. Avoid touching the treated skin to prevent contamination.

What to Expect Post-Treatment

Mild redness, swelling, or a warm sensation is normal and indicates your skin’s natural healing response. These effects typically subside quickly, especially for fine to medium hairs.

The eyebrow area may occasionally bruise due to tiny blood vessels near the skin’s surface. If you take blood thinners or certain supplements, you may be more prone to bruising. Applying arnica cream several times a day can help any small bruises fade faster.

Post-Treatment Skin Care for Optimal Healing

• Apply Antiseptic: Use witch hazel or another antiseptic several times a day to prevent infection.

• Avoid Touching: Do not rub, scratch, or pick at the treated area. Any tiny crusts should fall off naturally. If you must touch the area, wash your hands thoroughly first.

• Be Gentle with Your Skin: Avoid shaving, dermaplaning, and strong skincare products (such as retinoids, acids, and vitamin C) on the treated area until it has fully healed.

• Use a Cold Compress: If needed, apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce redness and swelling.

• Protect from Sun Exposure: Avoid sun exposure for the first 48 hours. Afterward, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply every two hours when exposed to direct sunlight. Some skin types may be more prone to pigmentation changes, so extra caution is advised.

• Avoid Overheating & Sweating: Refrain from activities that cause excessive sweating or heat exposure until your skin has healed.

Managing Hair Between Treatments

For best results, trim or shave visible hair between sessions. Avoid tweezing, threading, or waxing, as these methods can prolong your overall treatment time. If managing regrowth is challenging, consider scheduling shorter, more frequent appointments.

By following these care tips, you’ll promote healthy skin, reduce irritation, and achieve the best electrolysis results possible.