Electrolysis Prep: Get Ready for Smooth, Lasting Results

Let’s start with some science. At The Vertical Wellness Spa, home of Electrolysis by Alison, Los Angeles’ #1 electrolysis hair removal studio, we use the time-tested and proven thermolysis method. Thermolysis was developed by Dr Bordier of Paris in 1923. Today, it is one of the most widely practiced forms of hair removal. Thermolysis is heat-based electrolysis, also known as the shortwave method. A thermolytic epilator destroys the hair follicle by injecting each follicle with high-frequency radio energy. This energy produces localized heat and weakens cells and surrounding tissues to prevent future hair growth. This is a process called electrocoagulation. There are no chemicals used with this method. 

Thermolysis electrolysis uses an alternating current to charge water molecules until they create enough heat to disable the cells responsible for growing hair in the follicle. The electrical current heats and destroys hair growth cells. 

With thermolysis, individual hairs are treated in mere seconds, as there are not many steps involved in this procedure. An electrologist can move swiftly from hair to hair and can reach a lot of hair follicles. The electrologist may use a higher intensity current for a shorter period of time or a lower intensity current for a longer period of time. From ingrown hairs to sideburns, from underarms to hormonal hair, at The Vertical Wellness Spa, we have been using thermolysis electrolysis for over 20 years, achieving permanent results from clients from all over Los Angeles, Southern California, and beyond. 

Getting your skin ready for electrolysis is a game-changer because hydrated, clean skin helps that tiny electric zap do its job right-nuking those pesky hair follicles for good. Properly hydrated and clean skin allows the electrical current to efficiently target and destroy the hair follicle. Preparing the skin by avoiding irritants and ensuring visible hair growth helps the fine probe used by our electrologist reach the follicle more easily. This means less discomfort and lower risk of side effects like irritation or infection. Plus, a little prep sets you up for smoother sessions and even smoother skin-so you can walk out feeling confident and carefree!

There are a number of suggestions for things you can try to do prior to your appointment. These will help achieve optimal results and keep you comfortable. Think of it as giving your skin a little VIP treatment to make sure your session goes smoothly, comfortably, and with the best possible results!

• Try to drink plenty of water the day before and the day of the electrolysis session. Stay hydrated and do not drink caffeine the day of the electrolysis session. The better hydrated and more supple your skin is, the better the treatment will work.
• Eat a meal before the electrolysis session – Do not come hungry.
• Apply numbing cream (Dr. Numb, lidocaine, procaine, or EMLA) onto the treatment area 45 minutes to an hour before the electrolysis session. Apply a thick layer and do not rub it in and apply cellophane or plastic wrap to the treatment area. This assists the electrolysis treatment.
• Do not work out or go to the gym or exercise within two hours of your appointment at our Los Angeles electrolysis studio. Excess sweat can interfere with the treatment. It is best if the skin is not coated in anything, including deodorants, antiperspirants, or sweat. Moisture can disrupt the effectiveness of the electrical current and potentially increase irritation or risk of side effects. 
• Any skin treatments including facials, microdermabrasion, skin rejuvenation treatments, or peels should not be performed within one week of the electrolysis session.
• Do not use Retin-A or any acne cream 3-5 days before the electrolysis session.
• Do not wear make-up, foundation or sun block to the electrolysis session.
• Skin should be cleansed the day of the electrolysis session. Loofah or lightly scrub the skin a few days before the electrolysis session.
• Do not pick at your skin before your treatment.

Electrolysis After Care

Just like electrolysis prep, aftercare is another important part of your permanent hair removal process. After your electrolysis appointment, our Los Angeles electrologist will explain what to expect, how you can minimize any discomfort and when to return for your next appointment, if another session is needed.

To maintain comfort after electrolysis and promote the best results, here are some aftercare recommendations:

• Ice the treated area for two minutes or less each time for as many times as you can within 12 hours after the electrolysis treatment.
• Lightly apply Neosporin or polysporin if you have dry or combination skin. Acne-prone or oily skin should not use Neosporin or polysporin. Another option is aloe vera directly from the plant or organic, all natural aloe vera gel. Bacitracin and hydrocortisone can be applied if you know you’re not allergic to its contents.
• Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
• Eat within one hour after the electrolysis. This will keep you grounded and the nervous system will balance itself automatically.

After your treatment, you might notice some redness in the area that was treated-don’t worry, this is completely normal and usually fades quickly. It’s just part of the electrolysis process, and the amount of redness can vary depending on your skin type and which part of your body or face was treated, since different hairs require different frequencies to remove. If you’re looking for a little relief, try applying an ice pack, aloe vera gel, or a dab of Neosporin to soothe your skin.