Hair removal for transsexual and transgender clients is recommended to be undertaken with electrolysis as it is the only guaranteed method for permanent removal.

With all electrolysis treatments, the time frame is dependant upon a number of factors such as pain threshold, the density of hair being treated, skin sensitivity, and frequency/duration of treatments. With both Male to Female and Female to Male hair electrolysis in preparation for gender reassignment surgery, a period of at least 9 months should be allowed for.

Many clients find that topical local anaesthetic creams/gels such as EMLA, L.M.X.4 and Ametop will aid in reducing some discomfort whilst being treated. These should be applied to the relevant area approximately one hour before treatment.

For Male to Female clients, permanent hair removal is usually considered one of the most fundamental parts of transition, particularly on the face and body, but also important on the genital area when preparing for Vaginoplasty (construction of a vagina). It is vital that hair does not return within the Vagina post-operatively, as this can cause the client significant problems.

The area to be treated varies slightly depending on the surgical technique that will be used, but most clients will benefit from having a semicircle of hair removed approximately 1cm from above the base of the penis, as well as any hair removed that may be present on the shaft. For those that have been circumcised and/or will be having a scrotal flap technique, an area on the back of the scrotum towards the anus of approximately 2cm should be cleared also.

The following pictures show the penile/scrotal area for hair removal (click to enlarge).

Download M2F genital hair removal information sheet (PDF)

For Female to Male clients, permanent hair removal on the forearm area is required in preparation for Phalloplasty (construction of a penis). Electrolysis will start at the medial aspect and go across to the outer aspect of the forearm. If this hair is not removed permanently, complications may develop once the skin becomes internal surrounding the Urethra.

Whilst using the forearm as the donor site is the easiest to perform, note that the area used for the skin graft will result in scarring from surgery. The treated arm is usually the one that the client does not write with.

The following pictures show the forearm areas for hair removal (click to enlarge).