Gender Affirming Hair Removal and Pre-Op Electrolysis
At TS Electrolysis, we provide gender affirming hair removal for clients of all genders in a safe, private, and welcoming space. Whether you want to permanently remove facial hair or you need pre-surgery electrolysis before vaginoplasty, phalloplasty, or another gender affirming surgery, our team is here to help you reach your goals on time. Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal, and it works on every hair color and skin tone.
Pre-Op Electrolysis: When to Start
Most surgeons require the surgical area to be completely clear of hair before vaginoplasty or phalloplasty, because hair left inside the surgical site can cause serious problems after surgery. We recommend starting electrolysis as soon as you begin planning your surgery.
The treatment itself usually takes 12 to 18 months. Hair grows in cycles, and some follicles stay dormant for a long time, so starting early gives us time to catch every hair and do a final check before your surgery date. If your surgery date is closer, contact us anyway. Our extended marathon sessions help clear the area faster.
Your Surgeon's Hair Removal Map
Every surgeon and every surgical technique is different, so the area that needs to be cleared is different too. Before we start, we ask you to bring a hair removal map or written instructions from your surgeon. This way, we treat exactly the area your surgeon needs, without missing anything and without spending your time and money on areas that don't need treatment.
If you don't have a map yet, ask your surgeon's office for one. If you haven't chosen a surgeon yet, contact us. We can talk about the typical areas for your type of surgery and help you plan ahead.
Facial Hair Removal and Electrolysis Before FFS
For many trans women and nonbinary clients, permanent facial hair removal is one of the most important steps in their transition. We remove beard and mustache hair on the chin, jawline, upper lip, cheeks, and neck, including gray, blonde, and red hair that laser can't treat. Many clients also come to us to finish the job after laser, when the remaining hair is too light or too fine for laser to work.
If you are planning facial feminization surgery (FFS), let us know your surgery date. We'll plan your electrolysis sessions around it and follow your surgeon's instructions on when to pause treatment and when it is safe to start again.
Insurance for Gender Affirming Hair Removal
Many insurance plans cover hair removal as part of gender affirming care, especially before surgery. We are in-network with several insurance plans, and for other plans we provide superbills so you can request reimbursement.
Insurance companies often ask for a letter from your surgeon or primary care provider, and sometimes a letter from a mental health provider. Requirements are different for every plan, so we recommend calling your insurance before your first session. We are happy to help you figure out what you need. Visit our insurance page to learn more.
Your Comfort and Privacy
We know that hair removal in sensitive areas can feel stressful, especially the first time. Our clinic is a private, judgment-free space, and we always use your name and pronouns.
We pay close attention to technique. When each probe insertion is precise, discomfort is usually minimal. Everyone's sensitivity is different, so we adjust the settings for you, and you can ask for a break at any time. Some of our clients choose to use a topical numbing cream before their appointment, especially for longer sessions, while many don't need it at all. We'll help you decide what works best for you at your first visit.
We use only sterile, single-use probes for every client.
Gender Affirming Electrolysis FAQ
How long does pre-op electrolysis take?
The treatment usually takes 12 to 18 months, depending on the size of the area, how much hair you have, and how often you come in. We recommend starting as soon as you begin planning your surgery, so there is time for a final check before your surgery date.
Can I use laser before electrolysis?
Some clients start with laser and finish with electrolysis. Laser doesn't work on gray, blonde, or red hair, and it doesn't remove every hair permanently, so many surgeons recommend electrolysis to finish clearing the area. Always follow your surgeon's instructions.
Can I continue hormone therapy during electrolysis?
Yes. Hormone therapy doesn't stop you from having electrolysis. For many clients on estrogen and anti-androgens, hair becomes finer and slower growing over time, which can make treatment easier. Always follow your doctor's advice about your medications.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Please stop tweezing or waxing, because we need the hair to be visible to treat the follicle. If you shave, let the hair grow for 3 to 4 days before your appointment so we can grab each hair with tweezers.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes, we offer a free phone consultation. Text "Consult" to (801) 631-0352 to schedule it. If you would like to start right away, you can book a First Appointment, which includes an in-person consultation and a test treatment. The First Appointment is a paid visit.
Start Your Gender Affirming Hair Removal in Vancouver, WA
Whether you are just starting to plan your surgery or you are ready to say goodbye to facial hair for good, we are here to help. TS Electrolysis has been serving clients in Vancouver, WA since 2020, just across the river from Portland, OR. Everyone is welcome here.