Electrosurgical Epilation

Abstract

This article discusses alternative methods for the removal of unwanted hair, the mechanisms of action of each, and their advantages and disadvantages. Epilating needle design is discussed and epilating technique is described. Physician-patient interaction and the role of the dermatologist in electrosurgical epilation are explored.

Evaluation of a Long-Pulsed Nd:YAG Laser at Different Parameters: An Analysis of Both Fluence and Pulse Duration

“…Waxing, plucking, shaving, chemical depilation, and bleaching are temporary methods of epilation that are often irritating 1–3 . While electrosurgical techniques in‐ cluding galvanic electrolysis, thermolysis, and blend meth‐ ods may provide permanent hair removal, they are time consuming, painful, have a risk of scarring, and are impractical for large areas 4–6 …”

Physical means of treating unwanted hair

“…All three methods involve the insertion of a small needle or probe into the hair follicle through which an electric current is delivered, resulting in the production of a microscar that surrounds the follicle, but is barely perceptible at the skin surface (24). Focal erythema and edema following treatment usually resolve within a few hours (25).…”

“…While galvanic electrolysis is effective, it is a slow process, requiring a minute or more for each hair (26). Its advantage lies in its ability to effectively treat curved or distorted follicles because hydroxyl ions, being in a fluid medium, can flow to all portions of the follicle (25).…”

Unwanted Body Hair and Its Removal: A Review

“…31 The amount of sodium hydroxide generated is directly proportional to the current intensity and duration of needle contact. The resulting base then destroys viable follicular tissues via a caustic chemical reaction.…”

“…31 This technique is time consuming, requiring a minute or more to destroy each hair follicle, and consequently is used infrequently. 31 This technique is time consuming, requiring a minute or more to destroy each hair follicle, and consequently is used infrequently.…”