Whats the difference between thermolysis and normal electrolysis? I’m confused. Also, does it cause permenant scarring and does it hurt?
There is another site, www.hairfacts.com. that you might want to visit. Here is some information you asked for concerning the different modalities used to destroy hair follicles permanently.
"Three kinds of energy are used:
Galvanic electrolysis works by causing salt and water in the skin around the probe to be chemically altered to produce a small amount of sodium hydroxide, or lye. Lye is the active ingredient in some crystal drain openers. If enough is produced, it can damage the cells that cause hair growth. The chemical reaction is expressed like this:
NaCl (salt) + H2O (water) + direct current = NaOH (sodium hydroxide) + Cl (chlorine) + H (hydrogen)
Thermolysis works by causing water molecules in the skin around the probe to vibrate, which creates heat. If enough heat is produced, it can damage the cells that cause hair growth.
Blend is based on the theory that lye is more caustic when heated. Theoretically, blend is more effective than other methods if performed correctly. Blend is recommended by several experts, [4, 5, 6] but electrologist skill is by far the most important factor in safe and effective treatment."
Some areas “hurt” more than others. You must feel some sensation with permanent hair removal. Most people tolerate electrolysis well. Some practitioners are better than others at finding good levels so a session can be within that tolerable range.
Scarring can happen when a practitioner performs electrolysis incorrectly. Go to a skilled professional. If someone can recommend an electrologist to you who has had work done and results, that would be ideal. Scarring is not a natural, expected outcome for electrolysis. You have to be a real baffoon of an electrologist to mess someone up, in my opinion. A modern electrologist who keeps up with her/his continuing education and is dedicated to giving clients the best possible care, is someone you want to seek out.
Dee
“Electrolysis” is the term used for treating the hair follicle with an electrified needle. Technically, electrolysis is the modality using galvanic current and thermolysis is the modality that uses a high frequency current. There are many techniques that use galvanic and high frequency currents, including combining them. So, I hope that this did not confuse you more!
Scarring is a very, very rare occurance with electrology treatments. Most scarring, in my opinion, is from poorly trained electrologists - and they do exist!
The sensation with treatments varies a great deal. Client sensitivity and the techniques and modalities used all have an effect on whether or not the client experiences pain. Many clients, when experiencing their first treatment will say, “Is that all it is?” Others are saying, “Oh, that stings!” You cannot gauge what your own sensation will be until you try it.
And don’t forget that what you feel has a lot to do with the body you present for treatment.
The average client doesn’t really appreciate how their lifestyle (Smoking, drinking, caffeine addiction, dehydration, sleeping less than 8 hours a day) effect what they feel far beyond what the practitioner can adjust for. A $10,000 Epilator Machine/Electrolysis Machine can only lessen what one feels. The client bringing a well rested, well cared for, well nourished body can make up for more than anything other than poor technique from the practitioner.