Techniques & Methods
By Rita Reckas
Registered Electrologist
© 1995 Rita Reckas & Transgender Forum
The blend combines the thoroughness of one technique (galvanic) with the swiftness of the other. The combined qualities have made the blend especially effective in treating deep bulbous hairs, including those with curved follicles, and for coarse hairs. For this reason it is a favorite technique for removing the male beard.
The development of the blended current method was the result of dissatisfaction with certain aspects of both galvanic electrolysis and of high frequency methods generally referred to as thermolysis.
Galvanic electrolysis uses direct current (DC) and is very effective but also very slow, even with the use of multiple needles. Thermolysis, which uses alternating current (AC), is much faster, but can also be much less effective and regrowth can be a problem.
In 1948 Arthur Huikel, working with Henre E. St. Pierre, developed the electronic epilator which sought to combine the advantages of both techniques in one process since called the blend.
Galvanic current produces lye in the follicle, which chemically attacks the follicle, while the high frequency current heats up all the moisture, furthering the destruction of the follicle . In this manner the two currents team up to produce a very efficient form of follicle destruction by basically melting it away.
But, while blend has many advantages, it isn't for everybody.
Since electricity does pass through the body as part of the galvanic action people with heart conditions, metal implants and high blood pressure should not use it. It is also not recommended for pregnant women. Some people are also allergic to the lye that the galvanic action produces. Thermolysis is recommended in these cases.
Needle & Insertions
The two main kinds of needles being used today are gold plated or stainless steel which are used depending on the person's skin texture and sensitivity.
I prefer gold needles for people with very small pores and sensitive skin. Some people are allergic to gold however.
Stainless steel is preferred for thermolysis and is pretty good with all types of skin. In some cases only steel needles can be used because a gold needle will bend in certain types of skin.
Needles also come in various diameters which should be matched to the same diameter of the hair being treated.
The insertion of the needle is very important. The operator has to be very accurate and careful or results will be poor. He or she should have good visibility and plenty of light illuminating the work area and should be wearing the proper glasses. The environment should be one conducive to concentration so that an accurate insertion can be made and so that the needle is not left in longer than necessary to destroy the follicle.
1) My cosmetics physician is afraid to do electrolysis on my underarms. She says, it may develop infections. I know that in the U.S under arm-electrolysis is done. How can I convince her? She uses blend-method, lives in Germany.
Rita: If everything is sterilized and sanitary there should be no problem. This area is no more likely to have an infection risk than anywhere else. After treatment you should not bathe in a public pool or allow the area to have contact with anything dirty, but other than such normal precautions there is little to be concerned about.
Rita: You are doing things the right way, but two years may still be a bit optimistic. Males have a lot of leg hair and it can take more like three years to do the job. Again, everything depends on the coarseness of the hair, regularity of treatment (which you are doing) and operator skill. Be patient!