Electrolysis
is
the
only
method
of
removing
hair
permanently.
In
electrolysis,
a
very
fine
sterilized
probe
is
inserted
into
the
follicle
along
the
hair
shaft
to
the
dermal
papilla.
A
low
level
electrical
current
is
sent
down
the
probe,
destroying
the
papilla.
The
loosened
hair
shaft
is
then
removed.
Your
best
results
will
be
achieved
through
regular,
repeated
visits
as
more
than
one
treatment
may
be
necessary
to
completely
eliminate
the
papilla
and
permanently
prevent
hair
regrowth.
Three
methods
are
available. Thermolysis cauterizes
the
dermal
papilla
using
high-frequency
current
or
radio
wave. Galvanic uses
a
direct
current
to
convert
body
salt
and
fluides
in
the
hair
follicle
into
a
chemical
which
destroys
the
papilla. Blend is
a
combination
of
both
currents
together
on
the
same
probe.
Basic
Facts
Permanent
hair
removal
for
most
consumers
if
performed
correctly
(which
requires
considerable
training
and
skill).
Description
•
A
hair-thin
metal
probe
is
slid
into
a
hair
follicle.
•
Proper
insertion
does
not
puncture
the
skin.
•
Electricity
is
delivered
to
the
follicle
through
the
probe,
which
causes
localized
damage
to
the
areas
that
generate
hairs.
Background
Three
kinds
of
energy
are
used:
Galvanic electrolysis works by causing salt and water in the skin around the probe to be chemically altered to produce a small amount of sodium hydroxide, or lye. Lye is the active ingredient in some crystal drain openers. If enough is produced, it can damage the cells that cause hair growth. The chemical reaction is expressed like this:
NaCl (salt) + H 2 O (water) + direct current =
NaOH (sodium hydroxide) + Cl (chlorine) + H (hydrogen)Thermolysis works by causing water molecules in the skin around the probe to vibrate, which creates heat. If enough heat is produced, it can damage the cells that cause hair growth.
Blend is based on the theory that lye is more caustic when heated. Theoretically, blend is more effective than other methods if performed correctly. Blend is the combination of Galvanic and Thermolysis.
History
Although
several
researchers
were
apparently
experimenting
with
electrical
epilation
after
the
Civil
War,
in
1875,
Dr.
Charles
Michel,
an
opthamologist,
was
the
first
to
discover
permanent
hair
removal
by
using
an
electrofied
needle
in
a
hair
follicle
of
an
ingrown
eyelash.
This
was
the
invention
of
galvanic
electrolysis.
Use of electrolysis for hair removal continued through the early part of the 20th century. Its commercial popularity as a cosmetic treatment was briefly eclipsed by x-ray hair removal, which was advertised as both "painless" and "harmless" (only one of which was true, of course).
Multiple needle and thermolysis were to follow in the 1900's. In 1948 Arthur Hinkel and Henri St. Pierre created the technology that is now known as the blend.
The second half of the 20th century saw more incremental equipment improvements incorporating transistors and computerized controls, as well as insulated probes and sterile disposable probes.
Despite improvements in equipment, electrolysis remains highly dependent on the skill of the practitioner. Electrolysis trade groups have set standards for member certification, but many U.S. states do not regulate the practice of electrolysis. For this reason, it's very important for consumers to go to a practitioner recommended by someone who is done and happy with the results.
