The following pre-treatment care suggestions should be followed to ensure the best results possible.
- Let your hair grow out to 1/8″ or 2mm, usually 3 to 5 days growth. Your electrologist needs enough length of hair to grab it with a pair of tweezers.
- If the hair gets too long in between treatments you can trim or shave with a single blade or electric razor.
- Daily moisturizing is very important. It helps keep the skin hydrated and helps the probe insert easily into the follicle.
- Drink plenty of water. Keeping your skin hydrated means your follicles have plenty of saline in them which is needed for the current to work well. It also minimizes discomfort during your treatment.
- Exfoliate the day of your treatment to help remove debris from the opening of your follicles, making insertions of the probe smoother.
- Refrain from using retinal & glycolic acid 24 hours prior to your treatment.
- Do not visit a tanning salon before or after your treatment. Avoid excess sun.
- Refrain from drinking caffeinated or alcoholic beverages the day of your treatment as these will dehydrate you skin. Caffeine can also increase anxiety, making your treatment less comfortable. If you must consume caffeine (to avoid withdrawal), drink the minimum necessary along with additional water to rehydrate.
- If you are being treated in a sensitive area, using a topical anesthetic prior to treatment could help with discomfort.
It is normal following electrolysis for the treated area to be red and slightly swollen. Both of these conditions usually disappear in an hour or two but can last longer. The following post-treatment care suggestions should be followed for the first 24 hours after treatment. In general, avoid any kind of activity that would subject the treated skin to irritating conditions while it is in the healing stage.
More specifically:
- Keep the area clean with alcohol, witch hazel, hydrogen peroxide, soap and water, or other suitable antiseptics.
- Apply ice to the treated area to reduce any swelling if necessary.
- If advised by your electrologist, apply an antibiotic cream to help minimize infection in the treated area.
- Daily moisturizing after cleaning is very important.
- Keep your hands off the area. If any scabs appear following treatment, tell your electrologist about them at your next appointment. Do not pick at them.
- Do not visit a tanning salon before or after treatment. Avoid excess sun.
- Avoid heavy creams or makeup in the treated area for 24 hours. If makeup must be applied, use fresh, oil-free makeup, kept free of bacterial contamination.
- Do not tweeze, thread or wax visible hairs. Clipping is preferred so the hair will be available for removal at the next treatment.
- Advise your electrologist of any new medications you are taking or any change in your health status.
- If any reaction occurs which appears related to your electrolysis treatment, contact your electrologist immediately for further care instructions.