Electrolysis Aftercare
Effective electrolysis treatment leaves the skin irritated when appointments are longer than 10-15 minutes. Redness, swelling and a warm sensation are all common side effects good electrolysis treatment. Side effects on the upper lip are milder due to the lower treatment energy. To ensure proper healing following your electrolysis appointment it is very important you follow my advice for electrolysis aftercare.
• Let your skin breathe following electrolysis treatment. This means no heavy creams or makeup for the day, otherwise you risk a breakout.
• Be sun safe. Wear a hat or apply an oil free sunblock to protect the treated skin. When driving and exercising consider wearing sun protective clothing.
• Do not pick or scratch at your skin. If your skin itches during the healing process, gently massage lotion or oil (rosehip oil is great) into the area to alleviate itching. This is relevant mostly for extensive face and body work.
• Avoid tight fitting clothing over treated areas (bikini line will be irritated by high-cut underwear, stomach can be irritated by belt buckles or the waistlines of pants).
You need 3 essential products for your electrolysis aftercare regime
- An epsom salt compress is the first step in your electrolysis aftercare routine. Mix 1/3 cup of epsom salt with 1-1.5 cups water and soak a cloth in the solution. Apply compress to skin for at least 1hr a day for 3-4 days following your treatment or as advised by me.
- Place an ice pack over the epsom salt compress if your skin is still swollen when you get home.
- Apply Polysporin several times a day to moisturize to speed healing.
- This is an extra product that is great but not essential, however, some of my clients swear by Tower 28 SOS treatment spray as their number 1 product for electrolysis aftercare. Use this spray if you have long drive home or are heading to work after your treatment. Apply the epsom compress as soon as you can though.
Although the guidelines above are for the face, electrolysis aftercare for the body is the same. Red dots or scabbing on the body are minimized with my electrolysis aftercare regimen. Scabbing after electrolysis does not indicate any permanent damage to the skin. The skin will heal, do not worry. Do not use any abrasive products on your skin after electrolysis.
Black and brown skin is prone to hyperpigmentation. This means that a discolouration may appear at the follicle opening. The colour can range from pink to dark brown depending on your skin tone. This side effect is temporary and will clear up within several months. My electrolysis aftercare guidelines are mandatory for black and brown skin because PIH is avoidable by following my instructions. Some of my Black and Indian clients use an epsom compress daily between appointments so their complexion remains clear throughout the electrolysis process.
In summary, an electrolysis aftercare routine is essential for your skin to remain clear and blemish free during your hair removal journey. The results of electrolysis are predictable and so are the side effects. Be prepared with the 4 essential products I recommend for electrolysis aftercare so you can put your best face forward as soon as possible after your electrolysis treatment.
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