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| FAQ's: DANGERS OF ELECTROLOGY |
SUB-TOPIC |
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Q. 1
: Can electrolysis cause scarring? |
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Q. 2
: What is the
cause of the popping sound that I sometimes hear during treatment? |
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Q. 3 :
Are electrolysis needles re-sterilized by the electrolysis current
flowing through them? |
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Q. 4
: Should my electrologist be wearing gloves during treatment? |
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Q. 1: Can electrolysis cause scarring?
All
methods of electrolysis (thermolysis, galvanic, and blend) have the
potential of damaging the skin. But probably the most serious result is
pitted scarring. Pitted scarring is associated with the use of fast,
high intensity thermolysis (high frequency) treatment also called flash
thermolysis. While the flash technique is perfectly safe when used
to treat fine, shallow hair, it can become quite dangerous when this
method is applied to thick, deeply rooted hairs like those found in the
beard.
Q. 2: What is the cause of the popping sound that I
sometimes hear during treatment?
During
thermolysis treatment, high frequency energy is produced at the tip of
the probe. When too much energy is delivered, the fluid found in
surrounding tissue immediately turns to steam. The rising steam
continues to travel upwards, finally being expelled from the follicle
with a popping or crackling sound. This sound is characteristic of
excessive high frequency treatment and should be considered a warning
that permanent skin damage may result.
Q. 3: Are electrolysis needles re-sterilized by the
electrolysis current flowing through them?
Electrolysis
current does not sterilize (make free of microorganisms) the needle.
Saving back a needle for another treatment encounter for the same or
another patient is considered an unsafe practice habit that may lead to
serious infection. There is no valid reason for the re-use of an
electrology needle. Additionally, all secondary instruments should be
sterilized with an autoclave (pressurized steam sterilizer) or dry
heat sterilizer. Other components in the treatment area (cables, machine
cases, treatment chair, etc.) should be cleaned with a hospital-type
disinfectant such as glutaraldehyde.
Q. 4: Should my electrologist be wearing gloves during
treatment?
Your
electrologist should always wear some type of protective gloves; working
without gloves can put both patient and provider at risk. Non-sterile
latex or synthetic gloves are an inexpensive protective measure
that should be employed during the entire treatment process. Your
electrologist's proper maintenance of hand washing techniques and
changing of gloves as they are suspected of being contaminated (touching
an unclean surface) are important factors in the maintaining a safe
environment.
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