Stimulating is painful.

In this FAQ:

• What should stimulating feel like?
• Should I continue stimulating?
• How do I prevent and manage discomfort?
• How do I manage severe discomfort?

What should stimulating feel like?

When using Flow, it’s normal to feel a tingling, itching, or burning sensation. The intensity of these sensations can be different for everyone and can change with each session. Feeling some discomfort when stimulating is normal, but it shouldn't be very painful.

You might notice more discomfort on the left side of your forehead because of the way the electric current flows. You might also feel stronger sensations at the beginning and end of your session when the headset is ramping up and down.

Should I continue stimulating?

Although stimulating can be uncomfortable or painful at first, most people adapt to it over time. If the discomfort is tolerable, we recommend continuing to stimulate because the discomfort should subside. 

It’s important to closely monitor your discomfort levels and skin. If you have any concerns or notice anything unusual, contact our support team for help.

How do I prevent and manage discomfort?

• Never reuse refill pads: Always use new refill pads to minimise discomfort, irritation, and potential burns.
• Don’t stimulate damaged skin: Make sure the skin underneath the headset electrode area is healthy. Stimulating damaged skin may worsen the condition and cause discomfort.

• Gently clean your forehead before stimulating: Stimulating while wearing makeup or skincare products can cause skin reactions or burns. Don’t clean too vigorously as this can abrade the skin. Use a non-alcoholic soap and pat your forehead dry with a clean towel.

• Apply moisturiser: Use a moisturiser at least twice a day, including after stimulating, to maintain your skin’s natural barrier. Just make sure to remove all makeup and skincare products before stimulating.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and in optimal condition.

• Make sure the headset is placed correctly: Follow the headset positioning guide and make sure the headset electrodes are placed firmly and evenly on your forehead. Minimise the amount of hair under the electrodes; a small overlap with the hairline is fine. For more guidance on positioning, read the How do I position the headset? FAQ.

• Cool your skin after stimulating: Applying ice packs or a cooling gel can help soothe your skin.

• Pause if needed: If the discomfort becomes too painful when stimulating, you can pause your session and resume later in the day.

How do I manage severe discomfort?

Severe discomfort is rare. If you experience it, check your skin for any damage like scratches, spots, or irritation. If you find any, do not stimulate until your skin is completely healed.

If you still feel severe discomfort at the beginning of your next session, stop using the headset and contact our support team for help.

Disclaimer: Advice, diagnosis and treatment of depression should be conducted under the supervision of a suitably qualified medical professional.