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For centuries, people have sought smooth, hairless skin. From the caveman era to ancient Egypt to the Roman Empire, everyday women in these societies used anything they could find to rid themselves of excess hair. Some of their tools included sea-shells, pumice stones, blades, flint razors and they even used walnut oil to prevent hair growth. These practices were often dangerous, ineffective, and uncertain.
By the time of the 1800's, doctors began researching more about hair growth and ways to prevent it. They had discovered that hair began growing from a bulb near the root of the hair follicle. They figured that they could prevent future hair growth by damaging this base known as the 'germinal papilla'.
Dr. Charles Michel
Finally in 1875, a permanent and safe form of hair removal was invented. It was Dr. Charles Michel, located in St. Louis, who created electrolysis, initially in order to treat ingrown hairs. He wrote a report on his work and the electrochemical decomposition of hair follicles that same year.
Dermatologist William Hardaway read Dr. Michel's article and adopted the practice of electrolysis into his own work, with success. He then presented his findings to his colleagues at a meeting for the American Dermatological Association. By sharing information about this new technique, the concept of electrolysis gained widespread attention among medical communities. More and more doctors began treating patients with excess hair this way. Dr. Hardaway helped bring recognition to the invention of electrolysis on a national scale.
DJ Mahler
The next key figure is Dan Mahler, who grew his own expertise in electrolysis throughout the late 1800s. So much so, that he devised his own company for electrolysis machines. Known as 'Instantron,' his company is still making and selling electrolysis equipment today.
In 1916, the method of galvanic electrolysis was established by resident of New York, Paul N. Kree. His work helped evolve electrolysis from a strictly medical procedure into something for the mainstream public. His training and marketing efforts were a great success for several decades. Soon after, the technique of thermolysis was devised by Dr. Henri Bordier of France in 1925.
Arthur Hinkel and Henri St. Pierre requested a patent for blend electrolysis machinery in 1945. This was a major breakthrough in a new and powerful mode of electrolysis. Gordon Blackwell published the 'Electrolysis Digest' in 1956. His analysis and summaries were critical for electrologists all around the world for many years.
Thanks for taking some time to read more about the key figures in electrolysis history. From the earliest days of humanity up until the present time, the process of hair removal has come a long way. We are so appreciative of all the work that went into making what electrolysis is today. We want you, too, to recognize the benefits of electrolysis, first hand! To book a consultation or appointment, please book online today at LimogesBeauty. We look forward to hearing from you.
