If you’re preparing for your first electrolysis session, you’ve probably asked this question:
“Should I shave before my appointment?”
The answer depends on what kind of electrolysis you’re having, how your clinic works, and where on the body you're being treated. Let’s break it down.
What Is Electrolysis?
Electrolysis works by inserting a tiny probe into each hair follicle and delivering a short burst of electric current to destroy the follicle’s ability to regrow hair.
Unlike laser hair removal, electrolysis works on all skin tones and hair types, including white, grey, blonde, or red hair.
Should You Shave Before Electrolysis?
In short: No, don’t shave immediately before.
Here’s why:
Electrolysis requires the practitioner to see and access each individual hair follicle. If the hair is too short or completely shaved, the technician can’t properly treat it.
But if it’s too long, it can cause discomfort or get in the way.
The Ideal Hair Length
Hair should be about 2–3 mm long for effective electrolysis. That’s about 3–5 days of growth after shaving for most people.
This allows:
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Proper insertion of the probe into the follicle
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Accurate treatment
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Less discomfort compared to longer hairs
Do not wax, tweeze, or epilate beforehand.
These methods remove the root, which is exactly what needs to be present for electrolysis to work.
Area-Specific Guidance
Face
Let hair grow for at least 2–4 days. Avoid makeup on the day of treatment.
Bikini Line / Underarms
Shaving 4–5 days before gives enough regrowth. Skip deodorants or lotions on the treatment day.
Legs / Arms
Leave hair about 2–3 mm long. Shave about 5 days before if needed.
What About Laser + Electrolysis?
If you’re combining laser hair removal and electrolysis (common for facial hair or hormone-related growth), follow your clinic’s instructions closely:
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Laser: You usually shave 24–48 hours before
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Electrolysis: You do not shave right before
Make sure your practitioner knows your treatment schedule so they can guide you properly.
What Happens If You Accidentally Shave Before?
If you shave too close to the appointment, your session might be rescheduled or less effective.
At Injectual, we’ll assess whether treatment is possible that day or if we need to wait for regrowth. Either way, we’ll always prioritise your results and comfort.
Final Tips
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Don’t shave on the same day as your session
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Aim for ~3 days of growth (2–3 mm hair length)
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Avoid tweezing or waxing between sessions
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Be consistent—electrolysis requires a series of appointments for permanent results
Book With the Experts
Electrolysis requires precision, skill, and consistency. At Injectual, we specialise in permanent hair removal, including face, body, and intimate areas, and tailor each plan to your skin and hair type.
Whether you’re treating stubborn facial hair, planning gender-affirming care, or want long-term results that go beyond laser we’ve got you.
Book your electrolysis consultation today and start your path to permanent hair removal.
