Methods Electrolysis

Electrolysis (only direct current). Direct current creates a process of caustic soaking (this process actually dissolves and soaks the keratin proteins in the hair follicle). This method dates back to the 1900’s and, nowadays, is seldom in the Netherlands because it is slow (30 to 60 seconds per hair) and painful.

Diathermie (only using high frequency alternate current): the heat causes the protein molecules, consisting of amino acids, to coagulate and die off. Under this form we can distinguish the following methods:

Classical: 3-6 seconds at lower amperage;

Joanna Lackmethod: for experienced beauticians. This methods uses a specially designed apparatus with a button switch that is operated by the index finger instead of a foot pedal.

Flash-method: 2 seconds at high amperage. This is an interesting method for quickly ‘clearing’ an area with dense hair growth. The disadvantage is that regrowth occurs more rapidly than with the blend method.

Blend method (combination of alternate and direct current): The caustic soaking process will be accelerated by applying heat through alternate current. If hair is only treated with a direct current, the process will take one minute. If the blend method is used instead, this can be reduced to 6 to 20 seconds. This is the most effective method for people with twisted follicles (often found in negroid people)

References:

• “Handboek voor cosmetische en medische ontharing” by Drs. F.C.L. Goosmann (red)
• “Elektrokosmetiek” by Peggy Hoek
• “Opleiding elektrisch ontharen” by K.J.T.E. Lübkemann-de Boer