The History and Science of Electrolysis

Why It Remains the Benchmark for Permanent Hair Removal

The Discovery That Changed Aesthetic Medicine

In 1869, Dr. Charles E. Michel, a clinical ophthalmologist, was seeking a permanent solution for trichiasis, a painful condition where eyelashes grow inward toward the eye. Frustrated by recurring growth after plucking, Dr. Michel introduced a fine surgical needle connected to a direct-current dry-cell battery into the hair follicle. The resulting chemical reaction disabled the hair root permanently without damaging surrounding eyelid tissue.

Upon publishing his clinical findings in 1875, Dr. Michel established the foundation of galvanic electrolysis. In 1916, Professor Paul Kree expanded this innovation by developing multi-needle galvanic equipment, making electrolysis practical for broader facial and body areas.

Electrolysis Historical Development:
1869 (Dr. Michel: Galvanic Needle) 
  --> 1916 (Prof. Kree: Multi-Needle Galvanic) 
  --> 1923 (Dr. Bordier: High-Frequency Thermolysis) 
  --> 1938 (St. Pierre & Hinkle: The Blend Technique)

Understanding the Modern Modalities

As electrical science advanced, researchers developed new ways to achieve follicle destruction:

• High-Frequency Thermolysis: Introduced in 1923 by French physician Dr. Bordier, thermolysis uses alternating radio-frequency current to generate heat within follicle tissue. Thermolysis acts rapidly, though its success requires straight, un-distorted hair follicles.

• The Synergistic Blend: In 1938, Henri St. Pierre and Arthur Hinkle patented the Blend method, combining galvanic chemical action with high-frequency thermolysis heat. Thermolysis heats the sodium hydroxide produced by galvanic current, dispersing it through curved or damaged follicle walls. This method remains highly effective for stubborn or coarse hair.

The Biology of Permanent Removal

For hair to be permanently eliminated, the dermal papilla, the vital capillary network supplying nutrients to hair growth cells, must be completely destroyed.

[ Hair Shaft ]
     │
     ▼
[ Hair Follicle ] ── (Sterile Probe Inserted) ──> [ Electrical Energy Applied ]
     │                                                    │
     ▼                                                    ▼
[ Dermal Papilla ] <─────────────────────────── [ Heat / Lye Reaction ]
(Nutrient Source Destroyed)

Hair follicles progress through three distinct growth phases:

1. Anagen (Active Growth): The hair shaft is attached to the dermal papilla. Electrolysis is effective during this phase.

2. Catagen (Regression): The hair detaches from the nutrient source and moves upward.

3. Telogen (Resting): The old hair sheds or remains dormant while a new follicle cycle prepares underneath.

Because follicles cycle through these phases at different times across the body, completing a planned series of electrolysis appointments ensures every hair is treated during its active anagen phase.

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At Beauty Skin Deep in Charlotte, NC, founder Margaret Wingate established a 45-year legacy of clinical electrology, which continues today with practitioner Lesa Wingate, who brings over 30 years of experience. Both professionals use advanced equipment and customized techniques. Beauty Skin Deep provides precise, permanent hair removal tailored to each client.