Electrolysis Practice Exam

Which process uses direct current to remove hair permanently?

1. Thermolysis

2. Laser hair removal

3. Electrolysis

4. Light-based hair removal

The correct answer is: Electrolysis

Electrolysis is the only process that specifically uses direct current to achieve permanent hair removal. In electrolysis, a fine probe is inserted into the hair follicle, and a direct electrical current is applied. This current destroys the hair follicle's ability to grow hair by causing chemical changes within the cells that are vital for hair regeneration. Because electrolysis targets each individual hair follicle, it is recognized as a permanent solution for unwanted hair. Thermolysis and laser hair removal utilize different mechanisms for hair removal. Thermolysis employs radio frequency energy rather than direct current, inducing heat in the hair follicle to damage it. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, uses focused light to target the pigment in hair, which is effective but not classified as a permanent solution in the same way electrolysis is. Light-based hair removal methods also rely on variations of light energy rather than direct current, making them distinct from electrolysis. Thus, in the context of the question, electrolysis stands out as the method that employs direct current and ensures the permanent removal of hair.