September Special: 10% Off 6 One-Hour Sessions

September Special: 10% Off 6 One-Hour Sessions

September Special: 10% Off 6 One-Hour Sessions

September Special: 10% Off 6 One-Hour Sessions

ELECTROLYSIS Skin Care Guide

Pre & Post Care Instructions for Permanent Hair Removal in San Diego

Preparing for and caring for your skin before and after electrolysis is essential for the best results. Follow these simple guidelines and your skin will thank you.

Your Treatment Guide

Before & After Your Permanent Hair Removal Session

Your comfort and results are our priority. These simple guidelines make all the difference in your electrolysis experience.

Before You Arrive

Prepare your skin for best results

01

Ensure the treatment area has at least 3 days of hair growth before your appointment.

02

Avoid caffeine and alcohol — they dehydrate your skin. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment.

03

Discontinue retinols and other active or harsh skincare products at least one week prior to your appointment.

04

If you have any conditions affecting your heart, skin, blood, or hair — or are pregnant — please consult your physician before scheduling.

05

Arrive with a clean treatment area. No makeup for facial treatments, no deodorant for underarm treatments.

06

Any numbing cream must be applied 30 minutes before treatment.

07

Shower and wash your hair before your appointment. Arriving without doing so may result in rescheduling, and you will be responsible for the missed appointment cost.

Hydrated skin responds better to treatment. Start drinking extra water 2–3 days before your appointment for the best possible experience.

After Your Hair Removal Appointment

Protect and heal for lasting results

01

Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and redness immediately after treatment.

02

Apply sunscreen to the treated area to prevent hyperpigmentation following your session.

03

Do not rub, scratch, or pick at the treated area. Small scabs or crusts are normal and will naturally fall off. Picking can cause pigmentation or scarring.

04

Avoid strong or active skincare ingredients for at least 48 hours after a facial treatment.

05

Avoid products containing alcohol as they can irritate freshly treated skin.

06

Skip deodorant for 24 hours after underarm treatments and makeup after facial treatments.

07

If you need to remove hair between sessions, use scissors to clip only. Never pluck, wax, or thread — this prolongs your total treatment time.

Visible hair between appointments? Ask about scheduling shorter, more frequent sessions to manage growth without disrupting your treatment plan.

Common Questions

Permanent Hair Removal & Electrolysis FAQs

How many sessions will I need?

Most areas require a series of sessions spaced 1–4 weeks apart. Facial hair typically needs 12–18 months of regular treatment. We will give you a personalized estimate at your consultation.

Does electrolysis hurt?

Most clients describe a warm pricking sensation. Discomfort varies by area and individual sensitivity. Numbing cream can significantly reduces sensation for most people. We recommend applying a thick layer of 5% Lidocaine cream 30 minutes before your treatment. Do not rub it in. Cover the area with plastic wrap to protect your clothes and keep the cream on your skin.

Can I shave between sessions?

Shaving is fine. However you must have at least 3 days of visible growth by the time of your session. Never wax, pluck, or thread — this removes the hair root and makes the follicle untreatable until regrowth.

What should I expect right after treatment?

Some redness and minor swelling is completely normal and typically subsides within a few hours. Small scabs may form over the next day or two. These are part of the healing process — do not pick them.

Is electrolysis safe for all skin tones?

Yes. Unlike laser hair removal, electrolysis is effective on all skin tones and all hair colors including blonde, red, grey, and white. It is the only FDA-recognized method for permanent hair removal.

How do I care for my skin the day of?

Come clean and well-hydrated. Avoid caffeine, skip active skincare, and leave the treatment area free of makeup or deodorant. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being treated.

Will my skin look red after treatment?

Light redness typically clears within a few hours. For certain areas, raised red bumps may form. These temporary bumps are normal and will subside in a few days. For the quickest healing, keep the area clean and hydrated.

What is HF / Cataphoresis?

An optional post-treatment add-on that soothes the skin, closes pores, reduces redness, and supports faster healing. Especially worthwhile for clients with sensitive skin. Available for $15 with any session.

GET STARTED

Ready to Be Free From Unwanted Hair?

Book your permanent hair removal consultation today and take the first step toward smooth, confidence-boosting results with Alara Electrology.

Book a Session

Or call us directly at (619) 940-5408