What is Electrolysis?
Electrolysis is the only FDA approved method for permanent hair removal. It works by gently applying either a small amount of heat or sodium hydroxide to the papilla (root) to stop hair growth. Electrolysis is a highly effective and versatile treatment that works on all skin colors and hair types, including blonde, red and white hairs that lasers cannot treat.
3 Methods of Electrolysis
Galvanic, invented in 1875, is the original electrolysis treatment method that uses a direct electrical current to generate a chemical reaction within the hair follicle to dissolve the papilla (root). This process was slow, painful and therefore is no longer used as a stand-alone form of electrolysis.
Thermolysis, invented in the 1920’s, is another form of electrolysis treatment. Thermolysis uses an alternating current delivered through a probe destroying the papilla (root) with the heat created in the hair follicle. This is the most commonly used method because it’s fast, effective, and the least painful.
Blend is a combination of both the Galvanic and Thermolysis methods. Heat speeds up the “Galvanic reaction” to kill the hair follicle. It is best suited for curved follicles or difficult areas.
When determining the best method of electrolysis, there is no scientific proof nor does The Electrology Association state that one method works better than the other. The most important determining factor for the best method of electrolysis is choosing the right electrologist with knowledge of all treatment options.
How is Electrolysis Performed and What Can You Expect?
A very fine, flexible, disposable probe is inserted into the natural opening of the hair follicle. A small electrical current, or sodium hydroxide, is then introduced to the papilla (root) to cauterize or dissolve it. This process permanently disables the hair’s ability to regenerate and regrow, making room for bare skin beauty.