Galvanic Electrolysis Flashcards
What kind of current is used and what does it produce?
Constant direct current to produce a chemical reaction that destroys the hair follicle.
What is the positive electrode called?
Anode
What is the negative electrode called?
Cathode.
What is an electrolyte?
A fluid that conducts electricity.
What is produced at the anode?
Acid
What is produced at the cathode?
Alkali
During the process the cathode is?
the needle
During the process what is the anode?
The indifferent electrode that the client holds.
What acts as the electrolyte in the process?
Salt water in the body.
Explain the process?
Galvanic current flows through the body and produces chemical change at the two electrodes. The needle passes the direct current into the hair follicle and causes the water and salt to change into sodium hydroxide, chlorine gas and hydrogen gas. The sodium hydroxide destroys the hair follicle.
What is sodium hydroxide also known as?
Lye
What happens to the chlorine gas and hydrogen gas?
Escapes from the follicle - known as frothing. Indicates the follicle is moist, more destructive lye has been produced.
Benefits of galvanic.
Most successful method but slowest.
less discomfort.
Chemical reaction produces wider field of tissue destruction.
Good for curved or distorted follicles
Less tissue destruction as current attracted to highest moisture gradient (dermal papilla)
What are you aiming for in relation to current intensity?
To increase the current intensity until you achieve an effective level, treating as quickly as possible with the lowest intensity and minimum discomfort.
Why is the action of the lye greatest at the lower part of the follicle?
Because of the moisture gradient - more moisture is present a the lower part of the follicle. This reduces the possibility of the current causing superficial skin damage.
