This is the first method of permanent hair removal, developed about 100 years ago, which has subsequently lent its name to all methods of permanent hair removal. It is a direct current, or polarized type of current, that causes a chemical reaction in the hair follicle. This reaction creates a lye, which dissolves the papilla. Even when the hair is removed, root bulb included, the papilla immediately starts to grow another hair in its place.

If hair removal is to be permanent, it must disable or destroy the papilla. The lye created by electrolysis is very efficient in destroying the papilla. Electroysis works very well on white and blonde hair and therefore it would complement laser hair removal treatments.