Galvanic destroys the papilla when direct current is used to convert salt water to sodium hydroxide, this is called:

• A. Desiccation
• B. Galvanism
• C. Photothermolysis
• D. Electrolysis

Answer: (D)

This is about electrolysis. When direct current passes through a saline solution, it drives a chemical reaction that splits the salt water, producing sodium hydroxide near the electrode. In galvanic hair removal, this electrolytic reaction creates a caustic alkali that damages and destroys the papilla. That chemical process—electrolysis—is the key mechanism behind the tissue destruction. Desiccation is merely drying tissue, photothermolysis relies on light-induced heating, and galvanism is the general effect of electricity, but the specific reaction described is electrolysis.