Just Starting/Galvanic/Pitting?

Hair Removal Methods Do-It-Yourself Laser/IPL
#1

Hey y’all!

Newbie here; this will be my first post (I hope I’m posting in the correct place).

I’m trans, MtF—and after years of waiting, have finally decided to take the plunge and learn how to do electrolysis on myself.

Because I’m limited on funds, my only access to any type of electrolysis setup is a Clean + Easy device (Galvanic). Things have been going pretty good so far; there’s been a bit of a learning curve, but the areas that I’ve treated so far (upper lip/chin) have gone smoothly.

I do have some pinpoint scabbing, and definitely some blistering/redness/slight leakages/definitely some bubbling (during the session)—but nothing too crazy, it just looks like it’s healing. I’ve been babying my skin with moisturizer, sunscreen, and bio-oil.

My question pertains to this; I’m terrified of pitting! Like I said, treatment so far hasn’t been painful—and at most, my machine is set to 2 and the probe inserted for maybe 15-25 seconds. But I read somewhere that pitting can sometimes take up to a year to show.

Is there a way to know it’s happening before it develops. I know proper insertion, and power levels; I believe I have both set correctly, but now I’m worried that the areas that I’ve treated are just going to put and not show until way later. Help!

#2

*pit, spelling

#3

First off, huge kudos to you for diving into electrolysis on your own — that takes a lot of courage and dedication, especially with a galvanic setup. Sounds like you’re being incredibly mindful and cautious, which is honestly 90% of the battle.

What you’re describing slight blistering, scabbing, and even a bit of bubbling — isn’t uncommon, especially early on as your skin gets used to the treatment. Healing signs like what you’re seeing usually mean your power level and timing are in a safe range.

Now about pitting you’re absolutely right to be aware of it, but the good news is that it typically results from too much energy, poor insertion angle, or prolonged treatment in one spot. Since you’re keeping your settings low (level 2) and limiting insertion time to 15–25 seconds, you’re already minimizing that risk a lot.

That said, early pitting usually shows up within a few weeks, not months. If your skin is healing evenly, staying smooth to the touch once the scabs fall off, and you’re not noticing any unusual texture under natural light, you’re likely in the clear.

Just keep moisturizing and protecting your skin from sun exposure that’s super important during the healing phase. And if anything ever starts to feel too aggressive or painful, trust your instincts and back off a bit.

You’re doing great keep going slow and steady. You’ve got this!

#4

Aww, thank you so much for responding! And for the encouragement. Really needed to hear it tonight.

I got a little worried today, after my session last night. I’m fairly certain that I did over treat the left side of my upper lip. There was just a tiny bit more weeping on that side, so I’m going to skip those areas for now.

I had a few improper insertions (just slightly next to the follicle); no marks that I can see, but at least I’m learning.

Would I be better to focus on a few hairs (like 15 minutes or less) and skipping in between/thinning it all out first and then circling back around to those same areas to avoid overtreatment? Sorry for asking so many questions!