Electrolysis (Hair Removal)

Charity Sullivan, Owner

Electrolysis is the only method of removing hair permanently. This fact has been recognized in the medical field and by the public for over one hundred years. Hirsutism, which is the medical term for “excessive hair”, has been a problem for people throughout history. In 1875, an ophthalmologist, Dr. Charles E. Michel, discovered electrolysis while removing an ingrown eyelash from a patient. His continued research into the safe use of electrical current for permanent hair removal helped electrolysis to become what it is today. Space age technology has refined the equipment now used, but the method is essentially the same.

Superfluous hair is a frustrating problem, and today’s standards of good grooming may be more easily achieved with the help of electrolysis.

How Electrolysis Works:

The hair follicle is a tube-like depression of the skin which contains each hair. The dermal papilla is part of the follicle and controls the growth and development of the hair. Tweezing or waxing will remove the hair shaft, but the dermal papilla still remains. A fine sterilized disposable probe is inserted into the follicle along the hair shaft to the dermal papilla. At the same time, a low level electrical current is sent down the probe destroying the papilla. The loosened hair shaft is then removed.

In most cases, two or more treatments to each follicle may be necessary to achieve permanency. Regrowth hair is thinner, finer and weaker with each treatment. Once the dermal papilla has been completely eliminated, there is absolutely no way a hair can be regenerated from that follicle. There are only three recognized methods of permanent hair removal: Thermolysis, Galvanic and the Blend.

Thermolysis is a high frequency current or radio wave. When it comes into contact with normal body fluids in the hair follicle, it generates a low level heat which cauterizes and destroys the dermal papilla.

Galvanic is a direct current that converts normal body salt and fluids in the hair follicle into a chemical capable of destroying the dermal papilla. Blend, as the name implies, is a combination of both currents together on the same probe. Thermolysis at a very low level enhances the working action of the galvanic current to produce a highly effective treatment.

The best method will be chosen for you based on a thorough understanding of your skin, its texture, moisture gradient, and sensitivity, as well as the nature of the hair. With these options, it is possible to customize your treatment for maximum comfort, speed and permanency.

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