Questions from an FTM who needs electrolysis :)

[FTMax]

Ladies!

I hope you don't mind my visit. I just had a consult for bottom surgery yesterday and we're using a donor site that's going to require electrolysis - which is something I know nothing about and was not prepared for going into it. Any info you could provide related to these questions is much appreciated. The last question is mildly NSFW.

- I know there are at-home devices you can use. Is there a significant difference between these and going to an electrologist in terms of how long it takes, or how many times you'd need to go over an area? If it depends on area, we're talking about my forearm.

- I will pretty much have to out myself to explain what is needed if I go to a professional. Has anyone had bad experiences with an electrologist after doing so?

- On average, what are you paying per session? How long is it, and how much area are they able to cover in that time?

- If I can't get my forearm completely hairless before surgery (mid-summer), I would need to come back for more sessions but instead of having it done on my arm, it would be done on my penis. Is there typically a difference in cost to do a genital area? Would there be the potential that an electrologist would say no to doing it?

I have a consult scheduled for Monday with one place, and I need to call another but I wanted to have as much information as possible before I agree to anything that's going to cost me money. Thank you in advance to anyone who replies!

[Dena]

The questions are hard to answer because the more hair per square inch, the longer to clear and the rates may be different. If you tolerate pain well, you might have longer sessions and you might have two or more sessions a week. Because the hair goes dormant, you may need to return after surgery for cleanup so it would be a good idea to find somebody who is willing to work with you pre and post surgical.

DYI can be one but the process involves guiding a fine needle between the hair and skin to get to the root. You need a steady hand and good eyes to do it. In addition, if the current is low, the hair isn't killed. If the current is high, pitting can occur. I would rather pay the money to get the job done right the first time.

To clear facial hair, we often need 200 hours or more but facial hair is dense and the surface area may be twice what you need. Without seeing anything, I am making an off the wall guess of 50-100 hours but your operator will give you a better number.

It is important to look for a skilled operator who has been in the business for a while and/or has attended training courses. The blend is a process combining two different removal systems and seems to be the most effective at removing hair.

This may help you http://electrology.com/faqs-about-permanent-hair-removal/what-is-the-electrolysis-process.html

[FTMax]

Thank you Dena!

I was able to get a consult with another place this evening, so will definitely ask about all this. It does not sound like DIY electro is something I want to try my hand at, so thank you for clearing that up!

[Ms Grace]

DIY electro can, if not done properly, cause problems - especially with scarring, infections and ingrown hairs. Getting it done professionally may not seem palatable from a cost perspective but at least you have a better chance at a decent result.