Which type of electrolysis uses an electrolytic chemical effect?

The galvanic type of electrolysis is distinguished by its use of an electrolytic chemical effect. In this method, a direct current is applied to the hair follicle through a needle, leading to a chemical reaction in the surrounding tissue. This reaction results in the formation of lye (sodium hydroxide), which is effective in destroying the hair follicle and preventing future hair growth.

This process relies on the concept of electrolysis, where the direct current causes ionization of the electrolyte solution in the follicle. The chemical change is crucial because it allows for the effective destruction of the hair root by creating a highly alkaline environment that damages the cell structure supporting hair growth.

In contrast, thermolysis uses high-frequency alternating current to produce heat that destroys the hair follicle, and the blend method combines both galvanic and thermolysis techniques. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, works by emitting light energy that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair, leading to follicle destruction through thermal damage rather than a chemical process.