is inserted into the hair fol licle, alongside the hair to the dermal papilla, and a short wave current referred to as thermolysis is sent through. This is the thermal heat action that will cauterize and render ineffective the papilla without destroying the outer layer of skin. The hair is then removed, or epilated, and will not grow again. Once the hair germ cell, the matrix, has been eliminated, there is no possible way for the hair to be reproduced.

THE COMPLEXITIES

OF ELECTROLYSIS

The electrolysis process looks very simply on paper and in theory; in practically, however, there are a number of factors that make the actual process a bit more complex. These factors can, extend the ac- tual time required for the per- manent removal of hair, and/or lend the apprehension of re- growth where none in fact exists.

What are they?

As previously mentioned, permanent hair removal may appear to be a simple procedure, but when the complexities the practitioner must take into ac- count are considered, it is ob- vious that the permanent re- moval of hair requires a great deal of anatomical knowledge,

-72-

Pili-Bigemini FIG. 2

~

Pilosebaceous Cluster

FIG. 3

practical skill, and manual dex- terity.

The electrologist must be intellectually prepared with a basic understanding of skin, in-