Unit 1.1 – What is Electrolysis

The first recorded use of electricity for hair removal was by the American eye specialist Charles E. Michel in 1875 when he used an electric current to treat a condition called trichiasis. This occurs when the eyelash grows in an abnormal way and begins to irritate the eyeball. In such cases, the root of the hair follicle is destroyed and the eyelash then ceases to grow, or at least grows at a much slower rate than previously. This is now known as the galvanic treatment method. The use of electricity for hair removal continued throughout the early part of the 20th century. 

More developments in the field of electrolysis followed, including the use of many needles and a different form of electricity treatment which uses heat damage to destroy the hair follicle. Electrolysis has become a widely available treatment in many beauty salons for the permanent removal of unwanted hair for both men and women. Currently, needle-type electrolysis is the only method which can guarantee permanent hair removal and can be used on all areas of the body and on all skin types. Laser treatments, although widely advertised as a method for hair removal, are still only legally permitted to claim a permanent reduction in hair growth, not permanent removal.

The cause of unwanted hair growth.

Abnormal hair growth may be caused by heredity factors, changes in hormonal levels and some illness and medications and is seen as excessive growth or dark hair in unwanted areas. Since many factors influence hair growth, the client may need to return for several electrolysis visits. This varies from person to person. Most clients return once a week or every other week, as necessary. Treatments may lasts between 15 minutes to one hour.

Electrolysis is a useful technique for treating small areas quickly and efficiently, giving good and usually permanent results. It is mostly used to remove unwanted facial hair in women. It is also used on the legs, back and bikini line. Electrolysis may also be used for the treatment of thread veins and skin tags.

Electrolysis is the only recognised permanent hair removal method. All skin colours and hair types and colours plus hormonal hairs can be treated. It is a treatment that is highly specialised and challenging to learn,  however the rewards for your career and for your clients are unlimited. It removes hair permanently  and safely from all areas of the body and face. A sterile probe is inserted into the base of each hair follicle destroying its growth.