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{{Short description|Method of hair removal}}
{{About|the method of epilation|the chemical process|Electrolysis}}
{{about|the method of hair removal|the chemical process|Electrolysis}}
{{Human hair}}
{{More citations needed|date=November 2024}}
⚫
'''Electrology''' is the practice of electrical [[epilation]] to permanently remove human [[hair]]. The actual process of removing the hair is referred to as electrolysis.
{{Confused|Laser hair removal}}[[File:1938-01-Washington-DC-Electrolysis.jpg|thumb|right|A [[beauty store]] advertising electrolysis hair removal, circa 1938]]


⚫
'''Electrology''' is the practice of electrical [[hair removal]] to permanently remove [[human hair]] from the body. '''Electrolysis''' is the actual process of removing hair using [[electricity]].
==Overview==
⚫
The practitioner slides a solid hair-thin metal probe into each [[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, either through the formation of caustic [[Sodium hydroxide|lye]] (galvanic method), [[Electrocoagulation|overheating]] (thermolysis method), or both (blend method).


⚫
In electrolysis, a qualified professional called an electrologist slides a hair-thin, solid metal probe into each [[hair follicle]] without puncturing the [[Human skin|skin]] (when inserted properly). Electricity is delivered to the follicle through the probe, which causes localized damage to the areas that generate hairs, either through the formation of caustic [[sodium hydroxide]] (the galvanic method), overheating ([[thermal decomposition|thermolysis]]), or both (the blend method).
==Modalities==
⚫
Three methods or "modalities" are used in electrology. ''Galvanic'', ''thermolysis'', and ''blend'' all have their own merits, and one method is not better than another. The success depends on the skill of the electrologist, the type of hair being removed, the condition of the skin and the pain threshold of the client. All three methods, when properly performed, can be thorough at destroying the hair matrix cells, and leaving follicles incapable of regrowing hair.


===Galvanic===
==Methods==
⚫
All three methods (galvanic, thermolysis, and blend) have their own merits, and one method is not better than another. The success depends on the skill of the electrologist, the type of hair being removed, the condition of the skin and the pain threshold of the client. All three methods, when properly performed, can be thorough at destroying the [[hair matrix]] cells, and leaving follicles incapable of regrowing hair.
⚫
This modality is named after [[Luigi Galvani]] and uses a person's body as an [[electrolytic cell]]. Galvanic electrolysis was first reported in the medical literature by [[ophthalmologist]] [[Charles Michel (American ophthalmologist)|Charles Michel]] in 1875 to remove ingrown eyelashes in patients with [[trichiasis]].<ref name="michel">Michel CE. Trichiasis and distichiasis; with an improved method for radical treatment. ''St. Louis Clinical Record'', 1875 Oct; 2:145-148</ref> A galvanic epilator is essentially a positive ground power supply that delivers 0-3 [[ampere|milliamperes]] through the body. The follicular probe is the [[cathode]] of an electrolytic cell. [[Sodium hydroxide]] formed at the cathode by the process of chemical [[electrolysis]] kills the hair matrix cells. Modern galvanic epilators automatically adjust the voltage to maintain constant current.


===Galvanic method===
⚫
This method is named after [[Luigi Galvani]] and uses a person's body as an [[electrolytic cell]]. Galvanic electrolysis was first reported in medical literature in 1875 by [[ophthalmologist]] [[Charles Michel (American ophthalmologist)|Charles Michel]] as a method for removing [[trichiasis|ingrown eyelashes]].<ref name="michel">{{cite journal | author = Michel CE | date = Oct 1875 | title = Trichiasis and distichiasis; with an improved method for radical treatment | url = | journal = St. Louis Clinical Record | volume = 2 | issue = | pages = 145–148 }}</ref> A galvanic hair remover is essentially a positive ground power supply that delivers 0–3 [[ampere|milliamperes]] through the body. The follicular probe is the [[cathode]] of an electrolytic cell. [[Sodium hydroxide]] formed at the cathode by the process of chemical [[electrolysis]] kills the hair matrix cells. Modern galvanic hair removers automatically adjust the voltage to maintain constant current.
===Thermolysis===
===Thermolysis===
Another method is known as '''thermolysis''', [[radio frequency|RF]], shortwave or [[diathermy]].
Another method is known as '''thermolysis''', also called radio frequency (RF), shortwave or [[diathermy]].
Thermolysis was developed in the 1920s and first reported in medical literature by [[Henri Bordier]].<ref name="bordier">Bordier H. Nouveau traitment de l'hypertrichose par la diathermie. Vie Med., 1924, 5:561</ref> A thermolytic epilator is essentially a radio transmitter, usually with an output of about 0-8 [[watt]]s at a [[frequency]] of 13.56 [[megahertz|MHz]]. RF energy emanates from the probe tip to tissue within about a millimeter. Thermolysis works by heating the hair matrix cells to about 50-48°C (118°F), causing [[electrocoagulation]].
Thermolysis was developed in the 1920s and first reported in medical literature by Henri Bordier.<ref name="bordier">Bordier H. Nouveau traitment de l'hypertrichose par la diathermie. Vie Med., 1924, 5:561</ref> A thermolytic hair remover is essentially a [[radio transmitter]], usually with an output of about 0–8 watts at a frequency of 13.56 {{abbr|MHz|megahertz}}. RF energy emanates from the probe tip to tissue within about a millimeter. Thermolysis works by heating the hair matrix cells to about {{convert|48|to|50|C}}, causing [[electrocoagulation]].


===Blend===
===Blend method===
Galvanic and thermolysis are often combined in a method known as '''blend''', developed by [[Arthur Hinkel]] in 1948, which uses both RF and direct current, combining many of the advantages of galvanic and thermolysis.<ref name="hinkel">Hinkel AR, Lind RW (1968). ''Electrolysis, Thermolysis and the Blend: the principles and practice of permanent hair removal.''Los Angeles, CA: Arroway Publishers, ISBN 0-9600284-1-2</ref>
The galvanic method and thermolysis are often combined in the blend method, developed by [[Arthur Hinkel]] in 1948, which uses both RF and direct current, combining many of the advantages of both methods.<ref name="hinkel">Hinkel AR, Lind RW (1968). ''Electrolysis, Thermolysis and the Blend: the principles and practice of permanent hair removal. ''Los Angeles, CA: Arroway Publishers, {{ISBN|0-9600284-1-2}}</ref>


==Technique==
==Technique==
The practitioner selects a metal probe that slides easily into the [[hair follicle]], usually the same diameter as the hair shaft or smaller. This is typically 50 to 150&nbsp;µm (0.002 to 0.006&nbsp;inches) for all three modalities. Care is given to insert the probe at the same angle as the hair is growing out of the skin. The probe is inserted to the depth of the dermal [[wiktionary:Papilla|papilla]] or hair matrix, which is the site of formation of hair from highly [[mitosis|mitotic]] and [[keratin]]ized [[cell (biology)|cells]]. The power and duration of the electricity are started at the lowest setting, then gradually increased until the hair comes out as easily as possible. If the patient experiences significant discomfort, the settings can be lowered.
The practitioner selects a metal probe that slides easily into the hair follicle, usually the same diameter as the hair shaft or smaller. The probe is typically 50 to 150&nbsp;μm (0.002 to 0.006&nbsp;inches) for all three modalities. Care is needed to insert the probe at the same angle as the hair is growing out of the skin. The probe is inserted to the depth of the hair matrix, the site where hair is formed. The power and duration of the electricity are started at the lowest setting, then gradually increased until the hair comes out as easily as possible. If the patient experiences significant discomfort, the settings can be lowered.

==Treatment duration==
Most practitioners will advise that complete removal of male pattern facial hair takes between 1 and 4 years, with an average treatment length of 2 years.{{Citation needed|date=October 2012}}


==Status of profession==
==Status of profession==
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{{Globalize|section|USA|2name=the United States|date=April 2012}}


⚫
In the United States, electrolysis is regulated in many states, requiring training and licensing.
⚫
{{Globalize/US|section|date=April 2012}}


⚫
Electrolysis as a profession faced new competition in the 1990s after [[laser hair removal]] was developed and promoted as a quicker and easier way to remove hair. However, the [[U.S. Food and Drug Administration]] (FDA) declared laser can only claim to reduce hair growth, not permanently remove it.<ref name="fda-laser">{{cite web |url=https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emittingproducts/resourcesforyouradiationemittingproducts/ucm252757.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725213940/https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emittingproducts/resourcesforyouradiationemittingproducts/ucm252757.htm |archive-date=25 July 2018 |title=Laser Facts |publisher=U.S. Food and Drug Administration |access-date=26 September 2018}}</ref>
⚫
In the United States, electrolysis is regulated in many states, requiring training and licensing.

⚫
Electrolysis as a profession faced new competition in the 1990s after [[laser hair removal]] was developed and promoted as a quicker and easier way to remove hair. The [[Food and Drug Administration]] declared laser and similar devices can only claim to reduce hair growth, not permanently remove it.<ref name="fda-laser">U.S. Food and Drug Administration (04/26/2011). [http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/ResourcesforYouRadiationEmittingProducts/ucm252761.htm Laser Facts.]</ref>

In the state of Connecticut the professionals govern a board called the [http://www.electrologyct.com/ Connecticut State Electrolysis Association].


==See also==
==See also==
*[[Hair removal]]
* [[Hair removal]]
* [[Laser hair removal]]
** [[Laser hair removal]]
* [[Intense pulsed light]]
* [[Intense pulsed light]]
* [[Society for Clinical & Medical Hair Removal]]


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
<references/>

== External links ==
* [http://www.electrology.com/ American Electrology Association]
* [http://www.electrolysis.co.uk/ British Institute and Association of Electrolysis]
* [http://www.scmhr.org/ The Society for Clinical & Medical Hair Removal, Inc.]
* [http://www.electrolysishairremoval.net/ Electrolysis hair removal]



{{Cosmetics}}
{{Cosmetics}}
{{Human hair footer}}
{{Human hair}}
{{Electrolysis}}


[[Category:Depilation|Electrology]]
[[Category:Hair removal|Electrology]]

Latest revision as of 20:53, 23 November 2024

This article is about the method of hair removal. For the chemical process, see Electrolysis.
Not to be confused with Laser hair removal.
A beauty store advertising electrolysis hair removal, circa 1938

Electrology is the practice of electrical hair removal to permanently remove human hair from the body. Electrolysis is the actual process of removing hair using electricity.

In electrolysis, a qualified professional called an electrologist slides a hair-thin, solid metal probe into each hair follicle without puncturing the skin (when inserted properly). Electricity is delivered to the follicle through the probe, which causes localized damage to the areas that generate hairs, either through the formation of caustic sodium hydroxide (the galvanic method), overheating (thermolysis), or both (the blend method).

Methods

[edit]

All three methods (galvanic, thermolysis, and blend) have their own merits, and one method is not better than another. The success depends on the skill of the electrologist, the type of hair being removed, the condition of the skin and the pain threshold of the client. All three methods, when properly performed, can be thorough at destroying the hair matrix cells, and leaving follicles incapable of regrowing hair.

Galvanic method

[edit]

This method is named after Luigi Galvani and uses a person's body as an electrolytic cell. Galvanic electrolysis was first reported in medical literature in 1875 by ophthalmologist Charles Michel as a method for removing ingrown eyelashes.[1] A galvanic hair remover is essentially a positive ground power supply that delivers 0–3 milliamperes through the body. The follicular probe is the cathode of an electrolytic cell. Sodium hydroxide formed at the cathode by the process of chemical electrolysis kills the hair matrix cells. Modern galvanic hair removers automatically adjust the voltage to maintain constant current.

Thermolysis

[edit]

Another method is known as thermolysis, also called radio frequency (RF), shortwave or diathermy. Thermolysis was developed in the 1920s and first reported in medical literature by Henri Bordier.[2] A thermolytic hair remover is essentially a radio transmitter, usually with an output of about 0–8 watts at a frequency of 13.56 MHz. RF energy emanates from the probe tip to tissue within about a millimeter. Thermolysis works by heating the hair matrix cells to about 48 to 50 °C (118 to 122 °F), causing electrocoagulation.

Blend method

[edit]

The galvanic method and thermolysis are often combined in the blend method, developed by Arthur Hinkel in 1948, which uses both RF and direct current, combining many of the advantages of both methods.[3]

Technique

[edit]

The practitioner selects a metal probe that slides easily into the hair follicle, usually the same diameter as the hair shaft or smaller. The probe is typically 50 to 150 μm (0.002 to 0.006 inches) for all three modalities. Care is needed to insert the probe at the same angle as the hair is growing out of the skin. The probe is inserted to the depth of the hair matrix, the site where hair is formed. The power and duration of the electricity are started at the lowest setting, then gradually increased until the hair comes out as easily as possible. If the patient experiences significant discomfort, the settings can be lowered.

Status of profession

[edit]

In the United States, electrolysis is regulated in many states, requiring training and licensing.

Electrolysis as a profession faced new competition in the 1990s after laser hair removal was developed and promoted as a quicker and easier way to remove hair. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) declared laser can only claim to reduce hair growth, not permanently remove it.[4]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Michel CE (Oct 1875). "Trichiasis and distichiasis; with an improved method for radical treatment". St. Louis Clinical Record. 2: 145–148.
  2. ^ Bordier H. Nouveau traitment de l'hypertrichose par la diathermie. Vie Med., 1924, 5:561
  3. ^ Hinkel AR, Lind RW (1968). Electrolysis, Thermolysis and the Blend: the principles and practice of permanent hair removal. Los Angeles, CA: Arroway Publishers, ISBN 0-9600284-1-2
  4. ^ "Laser Facts". U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Archived from the original on 25 July 2018. Retrieved 26 September 2018.
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