What causes blanching during electrolysis?

Blanching during electrolysis refers to the temporary whitening or lightening of the skin that occurs as a result of the electrolysis process. The correct choice highlights that this phenomenon is caused by shallow insertion using alternating current.

When alternating current is used, it leads to a less intense thermal effect compared to direct current. This shallow insertion allows for the current to impact the hair follicle without penetrating too deeply, which can create localized oedema or swelling around the hair follicle. This reaction can cause the nearby blood vessels to constrict momentarily, thereby resulting in the blanching appearance of the skin.

Understanding the mechanism behind this effect helps in managing client expectations during treatment, as blanching is a common and temporary reaction that may occur. It is important for electrologists to differentiate between the various currents and their impact on the skin and hair follicles, which is critical for effective and safe hair removal. Other methods or settings may not produce this specific effect, emphasizing the importance of technique in electrolysis practice.