Electrology

Electrology is the practice of electrical hair removal to permanently remove human hair from the body. Electrology is the only method approved by the FDA for permanent hair removal. It does require multiple sessions to achieve best results, due to hair growth cycles.

History

The term electrology was coined by Dr. Charles Michel in 1875, who reported successful permanent hair removal on a patient with trichiasis using a fine wire attached to a battery and inserted into a hair follicle. His method was reported in a medical journal and gradually adopted by others.

Method

Electrology is accomplished by inserting a very fine needle into each hair follicle at the angle of the hair shaft, towards the papilla. The needle is then charged with an electric current to destroy the hair root either by heat (thermolysis), chemical reaction (galvanic) or both (blend).

Thermolysis

Thermolysis or short-wave produces heat. This method heats the water in the follicle, causing hair cells to be destroyed by the boiling water.

Galvanic

The galvanic method causes a chemical reaction in the salt and water in the follicle. This method is slower than thermolysis but is more powerful and can remove hair in large areas.

Blend

The blend method combines galvanic current with thermolysis current. Blend method can offer more effective results for different types of hair.

Training and regulation

In many states and countries, electrologists are required to be licensed or certified within their jurisdiction. In the U.S., electrology training typically requires 300–1500 hours of coursework, followed by passing a state exam.

See also

• Laser hair removal
• Hair removal
• Hirsutism
• Hypertrichosis