The Role of Hormones on Hair
Throughout your life, hormones fluctuate and change. This is evident in women going through menopause, during pregnancy, and in individuals undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT). These hormonal shifts can affect various body functions — including hair growth patterns and skin hydration — which can, in turn, impact your electrolysis journey.
Let’s break it down.
Hydration and Why It Matters
Properly hydrated skin can make a world of difference when it comes to electrolysis.
Since electrolysis works by sending an electrical current through the hair follicle, water in your skin acts as a conductor. When your skin is dry, the current doesn’t pass as efficiently, making it harder to destroy the hair at the root.
Hydration also promotes:
Faster healing
Less discomfort during and after treatment
Minimized skin irritation or damage
How Hormones Affect Hydration
Your body is a complex machine, and hormones are the messengers that help regulate many of its systems — including skin moisture levels and hair growth cycles.
As hormone levels rise or fall due to life stages or treatments, you may notice changes in:
Hair texture and growth patterns
Oil production
Skin hydration and elasticity
Yes — hormones don’t just affect hair; they also influence how hydrated or dehydrated your skin and follicles may be.
Hormonal Causes of Follicular Dehydration
Let’s go through a few hormonal scenarios that can affect skin hydration and, by extension, your electrolysis treatment:
IVF Treatment
During in vitro fertilization (IVF), individuals typically take high doses of estrogen and/or progesterone. These hormonal surges can:
Alter skin hydration levels
Cause fluid retention in some areas and dryness in others
Result in flattened or collapsed hairs, making them harder to treat effectively
TF Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
For transgender women, HRT usually involves estradiol and/or progesterone. These hormones can:
Reduce sebum (natural oil) production
Slow hair growth cycles
Lead to drier, thinner, or more delicate skin
This means follicles may be more fragile and require a gentler treatment approach.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS often causes elevated androgen levels, which can lead to:
Thick, coarse, and stubborn facial and body hair
Oily or acne-prone skin — but also dehydrated follicles
Irregular or unpredictable hair growth cycles
Your Pre-Treatment Care Plan
Here are some key steps to help prepare your skin and follicles — especially if you're undergoing IVF, HRT, or managing PCOS:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day for 2 days before your session
Consider adding electrolytes for added hydration support
2. Moisturize Consistently
Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel to the treatment area daily
Use a hyaluronic acid serum for deeper, long-lasting hydration
3. Skip Harsh Products
Avoid exfoliants, retinoids, or alcohol-based products for 48 hours before treatment
Refrain from shaving or tweezing the area 24–48 hours prior
4. Gentle Cleansing
On the day of your appointment, cleanse the area with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser
Do not apply makeup, sunscreen, or oils to the area before your session
Final Thoughts
Hormones and hydration play a bigger role in electrolysis than many people realize. Understanding these changes — and how to prepare for them — can transform your treatment experience.
With the right care, education, and a provider who adjusts to your needs, electrolysis can be both effective and empowering.
Citations:
Giersch, Gabrielle E W, et al. “Estrogen to Progesterone Ratio and Fluid Regulatory Responses to Varying Degrees and Methods of Dehydration.” Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, vol. 3, 14 Oct. 2021, https://doi.org/10.3389/fspor.2021.722305.
Stachenfeld, Nina S. “Hormonal Changes during Menopause and the Impact on Fluid Regulation.” Reproductive Sciences, vol. 21, no. 5, 3 Feb. 2014, pp. 555–561, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3984489/, https://doi.org/10.1177/1933719113518992.
Team, Clinique Matrice. “Electrolysis Treatment: The Benefits of Hydration | Clinique Matrice.” Clinique Matrice, 6 May 2025, www.cliniquematrice.com.au/electrolysis-treatment-benefits-of-hydration/. Accessed 11 Oct. 2025.