Read the Patient Information Leaflet.

• If there is conflict between what your healthcare provider has told you versus what the leaflet says, it’s generally best to follow your provider’s advice given that they will be aware of your transness and reason for using oestrogen. 

• In contrast, the leaflet is typically written for cis women using oestrogen for birth control, with no consideration of the needs of transfeminine people using it.

• However if you have any concerns about which information is best to follow, you can always double check with your provider or another healthcare professional.

Wash and Dry Your Hands

• Before and after applying the gel, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

• This is especially important afterwards to reduce the risk of transfer.

Select an Application Site:

• Common sites for application include the outer biceps or inner thighs.

• Avoid areas with cuts, irritation, or skin conditions; the application area should be healthy, intact skin.

• Ensure the application site is clean and dry.

• Measure the Correct Dose: 

• Your prescribed dosage will be stated on your prescription and in the UK will be printed on the label stuck to your medication box.

• The gel often comes with a measuring applicator or pump for accurate dosing.

• You typically have to depress the applicator multiple times (the exact number will be found in your instructions) when you first begin a new bottle in order to load the applicator so it dispenses the correct amount.

• After doing the pre-loading dispenses, you can now use your bottle as instructed and dispense your first dose through a full press of the dispenser,

Apply the Gel:

• Most gels direct you to apply to your outer biceps or inner thighs. 

• However, you should check the leaflet for your brand to ensure they don’t advise a different application site.

• Dispense as many pumps as directed into your hand or directly onto the application site(s).

• If you have multiple pumps to apply, split the dose between multiple sites.

• Spread the gel evenly over a large enough area of skin that it is not clumping anywhere.

• It should be applied in a thin layer that leaves a sheen which should dry in 5-10 minutes.

• Do not try to rub it into the skin; gentle spreading is sufficient.

Allow the Gel to Dry:

• Let the gel dry for at least 5 minutes before covering the area; for example getting dressed or into bed.

• Lightly touch the area first to see if it still feels tacky/sticky or if it is truly dry. 

• It may take longer than 5 minutes for the gel to dry so you may have to check it several times.

• Once you are familiar with applying the gel you will have a good sense of how long it typically takes to dry and you won’t have to check it so much.

• Avoid prolonged touching of the application site for 1 hour to ensure proper absorption.

Avoid Certain Activities:

• For at least 1-2 hours after applying the gel, do not: 

  • Swim

  • Bathe

  • Shower

  • Apply any additional products (e.g. moisturiser, sun cream) to the same area of skin.

  • Come into skin-to-skin contact with other people’s skin for several hours to prevent accidental absorption.

    • This is especially important with regards to people with testosterone dominant bodies.

  • Avoid contact with any pets for at least one hour after applying gel, as the high dose is dangerous to them.