CHAPTER 39 Epilation of Isolated Hairs (Including Trichiasis)
The method used to permanently remove problem hairs, such as misdirected eyelashes or ingrown hairs, depends on the anatomic location of the hair and the condition of the surrounding skin. The simplest approach, typically used by electrologists, applies electrical current to cause follicular destruction. In radiofrequency surgery, household current is converted to a frequency of 3.9 MHz, resulting in heating and vaporization of water in the tissue and subsequent destruction of the hair root. This process results in minimal lateral heat transfer, allowing for selective ablation of lash follicles without the side effects on the lid previously experienced with electrocautery (see Complications). In the presence of inflammatory disease with ingrown hairs, a more comprehensive skin care program should be used first to decrease the density of papules and pustules. For removal of large areas of hair, new laser applications have been developed. The units are expensive but time saving and effective (see Chapter 48, Lasers and Pulsed-Light Devices: Hair Removal).
