In thermolysis, pitted scarring can be avoided by which of the following measures?

• A. Using a smaller diameter probe, increase the timing and intensity and insert more deeply
• B. Using a larger diameter probe, decrease the timing and intensity and avoid shallow insertion
• C. Applying direct current only with low frequency
• D. Cooling the skin with ice before treatment

Answer: (B)

Preventing pitted scarring in thermolysis comes down to how heat is delivered to the follicle and surrounding skin. Using a larger diameter probe spreads the current over a bigger area, which lowers the heat concentration at any single point. Coupling that with shorter, lower-energy pulses reduces the total heat put into the tissue. Inserting the needle deeper targets energy within the follicle itself rather than near the surface, helping protect the epidermis from surface damage that can lead to pits. Together, these adjustments minimize thermal injury to surface skin while still effectively treating the hair.

Other approaches would increase risk of surface damage or aren’t the standard way thermolysis energy is delivered: a smaller-diameter probe concentrates heat and raises the chance of surface injury; direct current at low frequency isn’t how thermolysis delivers energy; and cooling with ice before treatment isn’t a primary method for preventing pitting in this context.