How to Care for Your Skin After Electrolysis or Laser Hair Removal

Gender-affirming care looks different for everyone. For many trans and non-binary folks, permanent hair removal can be an essential part of aligning their outer appearance with their inner identity. Whether you're pursuing electrolysis or laser, knowing how to care for your skin afterward can make a big difference in your healing process.

Through Point of Pride’s Electrolysis Support Fund, we connect with experienced, affirming providers across the country who understand the unique needs of trans clients. Two of those providers—Michelle Hinds (she/her), a licensed electrologist in Portland, Oregon, and Andrea Young (she/her), a laser hair removal specialist in Albuquerque, NM—share their post-treatment tips to help your skin recover and stay healthy between sessions.

What to expect after treatment

It's completely normal to experience some redness, swelling, or tenderness, especially if you’re new to treatment or targeting sensitive areas like the face or intimate areas.

"There is often redness and swelling where I’ve treated, but not always," Michelle says. "If it does happen, it will usually clear up in a few hours. Occasionally, it may last a day or two, but that’s pretty rare."

Andrea adds, "After a laser treatment, we advise clients to avoid hot water and sun exposure on the treated area for 24 hours. We also recommend applying aloe to help soothe the skin. Think of it like treating a sunburn."

The treated area may also feel warm for a few hours. Applying a cold pack wrapped in a soft towel can help relieve discomfort.

Keep your skin clean and hands off

After a session, your skin will be more vulnerable to irritation and infection. The simplest and most effective solution is to keep your hands off! Avoid touching the treated area unless your hands are clean. 

Michelle advises to keep it simple. "Keep hands off and keep the area clean with witch hazel, gentle soap, or similar. This helps prevent bacteria from entering the open follicles, avoiding infections, and allows your skin to heal quickly and comfortably."

Andrea adds, "Not touching your skin is very important! I highly suggest that, if your underarm area is being treated, do not apply deodorant for 3-5 days and let your skin breathe."

Soothing care

Michelle uses the Blend method of electrolysis, which works by creating lye in the follicle to destroy the hair root. While incredibly effective, this process can sometimes leave behind what she describes as "tiny chemical burns."

Aloe vera (alcohol-free, if possible) is one of the best options for calming inflammation and supporting healing. You can apply it up to several times a day for the first few days.

Andrea adds, "After a laser hair removal treatment, some people might experience tiny red bumps on the skin. We call them ant bites. Typically, they go away within 24 hours. If needed, apply alcohol-free aloe vera to the area as needed."

Sometimes, a hair might be treated too deeply, or a tiny blood vessel may be nicked during treatment. This can lead to a pinpoint of blood or a small scab, which is normal. Whatever you do, don’t pick or scrub!

"Something like Bacitracin or any triple antibiotic ointment can help calm things down,” Michelle and Andrea advise. “Just be sure to let your skin breathe and avoid heavy products unless recommended."

Be extra gentle for 24-48 hours

Your skin needs time to rest. Here’s what to do (and not do) in the first couple of days after treatment:

Do:

• Apply anti-inflammatory products like aloe or hydrocortisone (if recommended)
• Moisturize gently with light, non-comedogenic products
• Let your skin breathe

Avoid:

• Shaving (unless necessary, If so, use a fresh razor and shave with the grain.)
• Harsh exfoliants, scrubs, retinoids, or glycolic acids
• Makeup (especially on facial areas); if you must, use newer, clean products
• Heavy creams or occlusive products, unless specifically advised
• Tweezing or plucking treated hairs

Protect from the sun

Freshly treated skin is especially sensitive to UV exposure. For at least 48 hours post-treatment:

• Stay out of direct sunlight when possible
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses if you have had facial treatment, or use a breathable face covering
• Once redness has subsided, apply a gentle mineral sunscreen (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide), SPF 30 or higher

Healing with intention

Permanent hair removal can be a powerful part of your gender-affirming journey, and what you do after each session truly matters. A little extra care can help prevent irritation, promote faster healing, and make each step feel a bit easier.

Be gentle with your skin, patient with the process, and proud of the steps you're taking. This is your process to move through at your own pace.

Contributor thanks

Michelle Hinds

“Hi there! I’m Michelle Hinds. I’m originally from Canada but have lived in Portland for the last 25 years, where I raised 2 beautiful, happy, and healthy children.

I’m a transgender woman, and at the time I sought electrolysis treatment of my own, I was a mostly retired physicist. I was in the process of separating from my spouse and realized that I would soon need income. I had such a wonderful experience with my first electrologist that I decided that Electrology would be my next career.

I absolutely love being an electrologist! Helping others feel better about their beautiful selves is very rewarding. And I’m deeply honored and find immense satisfaction when I’m able to assist my fellow sisters in the trans community as we pursue our goal of having our outward appearance more closely match how we feel inside.”

Andrea Young

Andrea was born in El Paso, TX, on a military base. She has lived in Albuquerque, NM, for 48 years. Andrea attended the University of New Mexico and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Education and obtained a Master's degree in Management from Southern New Hampshire University. 

Andrea has worked in the medical field for over ten years and has always been interested in aesthetics. She joined Eternal Youth Medical Spa in 2012 to help run the family-owned business. In her free time, Andrea enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, volunteering, and going to the gym.

Need help affording permanent hair removal services? Learn about Point of Pride’s Electrolysis Support Fund, a scholarship-like program for trans folks who cannot afford or otherwise access it.