CME Electrology Techniques & Methods 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During the galvanic method, lye (sodium hydroxide) is produced at which electrode?
- Positive probe (anode)
- Negative probe (cathode) (Correct answer)
- Both electrodes equally
- Neither electrode
Correct answer: Negative probe (cathode)
In galvanic electrolysis, direct current causes a chemical reaction at the cathode that produces sodium hydroxide (lye), which destroys the hair follicle.
Question 2: Which thermolysis frequency range is typically used in professional electrology equipment in the United States?
- 500 kHz – 1 MHz
- 13.56 MHz – 27.12 MHz (Correct answer)
- 2.4 GHz – 5 GHz
- 50 Hz – 60 Hz
Correct answer: 13.56 MHz – 27.12 MHz
US professional electrology devices operate at radio frequencies typically between 13.56 MHz and 27.12 MHz to generate the oscillating current needed for thermolysis.
Question 3: What is the primary advantage of the blend method over pure galvanic electrolysis?
- It uses lower electrical current
- It treats more follicles simultaneously
- It works faster while retaining chemical destruction (Correct answer)
- It requires no needle insertion
Correct answer: It works faster while retaining chemical destruction
The blend method combines thermolysis's heat with galvanic current's chemical action, speeding up lye production and reducing total treatment time compared to galvanic alone.
Question 4: When treating a curved follicle, which probe insertion technique is most appropriate?
- Insert straight down at 90 degrees
- Follow the hair's natural growth angle and curve the probe tip (Correct answer)
- Use a shorter probe to avoid the curve
- Switch to thermolysis only to compensate
Correct answer: Follow the hair's natural growth angle and curve the probe tip
Curved follicles require the electrologist to angle the probe to follow the natural curve of the follicle to avoid a false insertion and ensure effective energy delivery.
Question 5: Which skin condition contraindicates thermolysis treatment due to risk of heat spread?
- Dry skin
- Rosacea with telangiectasia (Correct answer)
- Mild acne
- Hyperpigmentation
Correct answer: Rosacea with telangiectasia
Rosacea with telangiectasia involves dilated superficial blood vessels that can conduct and spread thermolysis heat, increasing the risk of tissue damage and skin injury.
Question 6: What does 'epilated hair' exhibiting a 'sheath attached' appearance after extraction indicate?
- A successful, deep follicle treatment (Correct answer)
- Shallow or incorrect probe placement
- Normal hair cycling
- Excessive current intensity
Correct answer: A successful, deep follicle treatment
When epilated hair retains a moist root sheath (anagen root sheath), it indicates the probe reached the base of the follicle and the hair was properly treated.
Question 7: In the sequential blend technique, what is applied first before the thermolysis current?
- A burst of thermolysis to open the follicle
- A short galvanic current pulse to initiate lye production (Correct answer)
- Topical anesthetic to reduce sensation
- High-frequency flash to cauterize the opening
Correct answer: A short galvanic current pulse to initiate lye production
In sequential blend, the galvanic current is applied first to begin chemical (lye) production in the follicle, then thermolysis is added to heat the lye and accelerate destruction.
CME Electrology Techniques & Methods 2
During the galvanic method, lye (sodium hydroxide) is produced at which electrode?