Electrology Modalities and Techniques
The three families
- Galvanic (direct current): produces sodium hydroxide at the negative electrode (cathode) via lye formation, destroying the follicle chemically. Effective on curved or distorted follicles but slower per hair.
- Thermolysis (high-frequency alternating current): generates heat at the probe tip, coagulating tissue. Fast, but relies on precise placement and duration.
- Blend: combines galvanic and thermolysis, using heat to enhance lye formation. A compromise of speed and thoroughness, useful for difficult hairs.
Key variables: probe (size, insulation, insertion depth), intensity/current, duration/timing, and insertion accuracy. Proper insertion follows the follicle's angle to the bulb; poor insertion causes dimpling, trauma, and ineffective treatment. Multiple probes (e.g., insulated or special-tip) alter current distribution and are chosen to match follicle anatomy.
Traps to watch
- Confusing which modality uses lye (galvanic) versus heat (thermolysis) versus both (blend).
- Believing "more current is always better" - overtreatment causes scarring and pitting.
- Forgetting that insertion accuracy is the single most important technique factor regardless of modality.
- Ignoring equipment maintenance and calibration as a quality/safety issue.
- Assuming one modality fits all hairs; distorted or deep follicles may need blend or galvanic.
Rule of thumb
Match modality to follicle, not to habit. Choose based on hair type, follicle shape, client comfort, and tissue response - and adjust settings to the client's reaction, not a fixed number.
Worked example
A client has coarse, curved hairs on the chin that resist thermolysis. Consider blend or galvanic for improved chemical coverage of the distorted follicle, with careful insertion and reduced intensity to protect surrounding tissue.