An electrolysis apparatus and system

Abstract

An electrolysis apparatus for removing hair of a subject, the electrolysis apparatus including: a. an electrolysis device configured for delivering electrical impulses to a hair follicle of a hair of the subject, and b. a skin cooling device adapted to cool the skin of the subject.

Description

AN ELECTROLYSIS APPARATUS AND SYSTEMField of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrolysis apparatus and in particular to an electrolysis apparatus for permanent removal of hair.

[0002] The invention has been developed primarily for use in electrolysis treatments on adults and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.Background of the Invention

[0003] Electrolysis machines are designed to permanently remove hair. By contrast laser hair removal methods reduce hair regrowth but do not permanently remove all hair. During electrolysis a typically hair-thin, sterile probe is inserted into a pore leading to a hair follicle. Once the sterile probe has been located within the hair follicle, an electric current is passed which interacts with and traumatizes the hair papilla, the hair matrix and the hair follicle bulge. This in turn causes irreversible damage to the hair follicle preventing any re-growth of hair from the same follicle.

[0004] Electrolysis has been used to safely treat most areas of the human body. Electrolysis is typically prescribed for people who have hirsutism, are gender transitioning or are unhappy about where their hair is growing. The causes of unwanted hair growth include hereditary issues, hormone levels, such as high levels of androgens, certain drugs e.g. steroids and illnesses such as polycystic ovary syndrome. Another increasingly more common cause is paradoxical hypertrichosis.

[0005] A typical electrolysis device comprises a housing including a current generator and a processor, a controller, a user interface for inputting a command to deliver an electric pulse and a probe. The probe includes a needle that is thin enough to enter the pore of a subject’s skin.

[0006] It usually takes multiple sessions of electrolysis to remove all targeted hair, mainly due to the discomfort experienced by the patient undergoing the electrolysis process.

[0007] The current pulse heats up or burns the targeted parts of the hair. The heat is also transferred to the surrounding skin. Not only does this cause discomfort immediately but causes a build-up of heat in the skin which can cause permanent damage to the skin.

[0008] While hair removal via electrolysis methods have been around for a relatively long time, the technology, in use, has not improved significantly.

[0009] Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such background art is prior art, nor that such background art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field in Australia or any other country.Summary of the Invention

[0010] The invention seeks to provide an electrolysis assembly which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the present invention may be said to involve an electrolysis apparatus for removing hair of a subject, the electrolysis apparatus including: a. an electrolysis device configured for delivering electrical impulses to a hair follicle of a hair of the subject, and b. a skin cooling device adapted to cool the skin of the subject.

[0012] In one embodiment, the skin cooling device includes a cooling arrangement.

[0013] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling the skin of the subject via one or more selected from conduction and / or convection.

[0014] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is a refrigeration device.

[0015] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling a fluid.

[0016] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling a cooling member.

[0017] In one embodiment, the cooling member is configured for being applied to the subject’s skin.

[0018] In one embodiment, the probe includes a needle.

[0019] In one embodiment, the cooling member is configured to at least partially surround the needle in use.

[0020] In one embodiment, the probe is movable in a longitudinal direction relative to the cooling member.

[0021] In one embodiment, the probe is movable relative to the cooling member between an inserted position in which the probe is inserted into a hair follicle in use, and a retracted position in which the probe is removed from the hair follicle.

[0022] In one embodiment, the cooling system is configured for cooling the cooling member.

[0023] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is a thermoelectric cooling device.

[0024] In one arrangement, the skin cooling device includes a cooling head.

[0025] In one embodiment, the cooling head comprises an outlet.

[0026] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus includes an ultrasonic exfoliator.

[0027] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator is configured for removing dead skin cells from the skin of the subject by application of an ultrasonic frequency to the skin of the subject.

[0028] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator includes an ultrasonic blade configured for applying to the skin of the subject.

[0029] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic blade also operates as the cooling member.

[0030] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator includes the skin cooling device.

[0031] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus includes a controller.

[0032] In one embodiment, the controller is configured for actuating operation of the skin cooling device in accordance with the levels of power usage by the electrolysis device.

[0033] According to another aspect, the present invention may be said to involve an electrolysis apparatus for removing hair of a subject, the electrolysis apparatus including: a. an ultrasonic exfoliator configured for removing dead skin cells from skin of the subject by application of an ultrasonic frequency to the skin of the subject; b. an electrolysis device configured for delivering electrical impulses to a hair follicle of a hair of the subject, and c. a skin cooling device adapted to cool the skin of the subject.

[0034] In one embodiment, the skin cooling device includes a cooling arrangement.

[0035] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling the skin of the subject via one or more selected from conduction and / or convection.

[0036] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is a refrigeration device.

[0037] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling a fluid.

[0038] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling a cooling member.

[0039] In one embodiment, the cooling member is configured for being applied to the subject’s skin.

[0040] In one embodiment, the cooling member is configured to at least partially surround the probe in use.

[0041] In one embodiment, the probe is movable in a longitudinal direction relative to the cooling member.

[0042] In one embodiment, the probe is movable relative to the cooling member between an inserted position in which the probe is inserted into a hair follicle in use, and a retracted position in which the probe is removed from the hair follicle.

[0043] In one embodiment, the cooling system is configured for cooling the cooling member.

[0044] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is a thermoelectric cooling device.

[0045] In one arrangement, the skin cooling device includes a cooling head.

[0046] In one embodiment, the cooling head comprises an outlet.

[0047] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus includes an ultrasonic exfoliator.

[0048] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator is configured for removing dead skin cells from the skin of the subject by application of an ultrasonic frequency to the skin of the subject.

[0049] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator includes an ultrasonic blade configured for applying to the skin of the subject.

[0050] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic blade also operates as the cooling member.

[0051] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator includes the skin cooling device.

[0052] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus includes a controller.

[0053] In one embodiment, the controller is configured for actuating operation of the skin cooling device in accordance with the levels of power usage by the electrolysis device.

[0054] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus comprises a sensor for heat effected by the electrolysis device onto the skin of a subject.

[0055] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus comprises a temperature sensor or heat sensor for sensing the heat generated and transferred to the skin of the subject.

[0056] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus includes a temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the skin of the subject.

[0057] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the level of cooling applied to a subject’s skin in accordance with the level of power usage by the electrolysis device.

[0058] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the level of cooling applied to a subject’s skin in accordance with the detected temperature of the user’s skin.

[0059] In one embodiment, an electrolysis device comprises a housing including an electrical impulse or current generator, a processor, a controller and a user interface for inputting a command to deliver an electric pulse.

[0060] In one embodiment, the electrolysis device comprises an applicator head.

[0061] In one embodiment, the electrolysis device comprises a main body.

[0062] In one embodiment, the applicator head is coupled to the main body.

[0063] In one embodiment, the applicator head includes an electrically chargeable probe.

[0064] In one embodiment, the skin cooling device is integrated with the applicator head.

[0065] In one embodiment, the skin cooling device is coupled to the main body.

[0066] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus comprises a switch that turns on the skin cooling device.

[0067] In an embodiment, the actuation of the electrolysis apparatus to electrically charge the needle automatically actuates operation of the skin cooling device.

[0068] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus includes a controller.

[0069] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus comprises a timer.

[0070] In one embodiment, the controller is configured for actuating operation of the skin cooling device when the timer reaches a predetermined time period

[0071] In one embodiment, the predetermined time period is 15 minutes or half an hour or one hour or longer than one hour.

[0072] In one embodiment, the predetermined time period may be a prolonged treatment time. A prolonged treatment time may be a longer than usual duration of treatment and can depend on the patient’s tolerance for the treatment.

[0073] In one embodiment, the skin cooling device is disposed on the applicator head.

[0074] In one embodiment, the skin cooling device is disposed to operate through the applicator head.

[0075] In one embodiment, the outlet of the head of the skin cooling device outlet is positioned adjacent the probe. In one embodiment, the skin cooling device provides cooling to the skin of the subject simultaneously during electrolysis treatment.

[0076] In one embodiment, the skin cooling device is a handheld device. The user can use the handheld device to direct cool air to areas of the skin which are being treated.

[0077] In one embodiment, the skin cooling device includes a cryogen spray.

[0078] In one embodiment, the cooling head may comprise a nozzle.

[0079] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement includes a refrigeration circuit.

[0080] In one embodiment, the user interface comprises an actuator activatable by a foot of a user.

[0081] In one embodiment, the user interface comprises a foot pedal.

[0082] In one embodiment, the foot pedal comprises a cover for securing a foot of the user.

[0083] In one embodiment, the cover comprises a flexible material for securing a foot of the user. The flexible material may be rubber or silicone or another suitable material.

[0084] In another embodiment, the foot pedal comprises an adjustable strap for securing the foot of a user.

[0085] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus comprises a cord supporter.

[0086] In one embodiment, the cord supporter comprises an arm. The cord supporter may have one or more joints. The cord supporter may comprise one or more holding formations for gripping and holding the cord. The cord holder may be configured for gripping and holding the cord attached to the probe.

[0087] One or more of the joints may have 1 or 2 or 3 degrees of freedom of movement.

[0088] In one embodiment, the arm may be attached to a housing of the electrolysis apparatus.

[0089] In one embodiment, the arm may be configured for pivoting about a substantially vertical axis.

[0090] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling the skin of the subject via one or more selected from conduction and / or convection.

[0091] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is an air conditioner.

[0092] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement includes a cooling member configured for being applied to a user skin.

[0093] In one embodiment, the cooling member is configured to be cooled by the cooling arrangement.

[0094] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the present invention may be said to involve an electrolysis system for removing hair of a subject, comprising a. an ultrasonic exfoliator for removing dead skin cells from the skin of the subject before hair removal; and b. an electrolysis device configured to remove hair from the skin of a subject.

[0095] In one embodiment, the electrolysis system includes a skin cooling device adapted to cool the skin of the subject.

[0096] In one embodiment, the skin cooling device includes a cooling arrangement adapted for removal of heat for cooling the skin of the subject.

[0097] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling the skin of the subject via one or more selected from conduction and / or convection.

[0098] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is a refrigeration device.

[0099] In one embodiment, the refrigeration device includes a refrigeration circuit.

[0100] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling a fluid.

[0101] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling a cooling member.

[0102] In one embodiment, the cooling member is configured for being applied to the subject’s skin.

[0103] In one embodiment, the cooling member is configured to at least partially surround the probe in use.

[0104] In one embodiment, the probe is movable in a longitudinal direction relative to the cooling member.

[0105] In one embodiment, the probe is movable relative to the cooling member between an inserted position in which the probe is inserted into a hair follicle in use, and a retracted position in which the probe is removed from the hair follicle.

[0106] In one embodiment, the cooling system is configured for cooling the cooling member.

[0107] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is a thermoelectric cooling device.

[0108] In one arrangement, the skin cooling device includes a cooling head.

[0109] In one embodiment, the cooling head comprises an outlet.

[0110] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus includes an ultrasonic exfoliator.

[0111] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator is configured for removing dead skin cells from the skin of the subject by application of an ultrasonic frequency to the skin of the subject.

[0112] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator includes an ultrasonic blade configured for applying to the skin of the subject.

[0113] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic blade also operates as the cooling member.

[0114] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator includes the skin cooling device.

[0115] In one embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus includes a controller.

[0116] In one embodiment, the controller is configured for actuating operation of the skin cooling device in accordance with the levels of power usage by the electrolysis device.

[0117] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the present invention may be said to involve an electrolysis system for removing hair of a subject, comprising a. an electrolysis device configured to remove hair from the skin of a subject, the electrolysis device comprising a housing and a probe, the probe being connected to the housing by an electrical cord; b. a cord supporting arrangement configured for supporting the electrical cord above the subject over the distance between the housing and the probe.

[0118] In one embodiment, the cord supporting arrangement is pivotable around a substantially vertical axis.

[0119] In one embodiment, the cord supporting arrangement includes a supporting arm.

[0120] In one embodiment, the supporting arm comprises a plurality of segments joined by at least one or more joints.

[0121] In one embodiment, the at least one or more joints configured for allowing pivoting between adjacent segments.

[0122] In one embodiment, the cord supporting arrangement includes at least one or more holding formations for holding the cord along the length of the arm.

[0123] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the present invention may be said to involve an exfoliator apparatus for removing hair of a subject, the exfoliator apparatus including: a. an ultrasonic exfoliator configured for removing dead skin cells from skin of the subject by application of an ultrasonic frequency to the skin of the subject, the ultrasonic exfoliator comprising: i. a skin cooling device adapted to cool the skin of the subject.

[0124] In one embodiment, the exfoliator apparatus includes an electrolysis device configured for delivering electrical impulses to a hair follicle of a hair of the subject.

[0125] In one embodiment, the exfoliator apparatus includes an ultrasonic blade configured for applying cooling to the skin of the subject.

[0126] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic blade is reconfigurable between an exfoliating condition and a cooling condition.

[0127] In one embodiment, the skin cooling device includes a cooling arrangement.

[0128] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling a cooling member.

[0129] In one embodiment, the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling a cooling member by thermoelectric cooling.

[0130] In one embodiment the ultrasonic blade is the cooling member.

[0131] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0132] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0133] Figure 1 shows a schematic of an electrolysis apparatus for removing hair of a subject;

[0134] Figure 2 shows a schematic of an electrolysis apparatus in which cooling is provided simultaneously with electrolysis;

[0135] Figure 3 shows a view of a control panel for a skin cooling device in accordance with an embodiment of an electrolysis apparatus;

[0136] Figure 4 shows an ultrasonic exfoliator in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

[0137] Figure 5 shows an electrolysis apparatus with a cord holder in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0138] Figure 6 shows a foot pedal of an electrolysis machine in accordance with one embodiment of the invention,

[0139] Figure 7 shows a schematic of an electrolysis device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; and

[0140] Figure 8 shows a schematic perspective view of a hand held electrolysis probe with a cooling member.Description of Embodiments

[0141] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[0142] In a first aspect an electrolysis apparatus is denoted by the reference numeral 1000 or a multiple thereof.

[0143] Now described with reference to figure 1 , there is provided a schematic of an electrolysis apparatus 1000 for removal of hair of a subject or patient comprising an electrolysis device 100 configured for delivering electrical impulses to a hair follicle and / or root of a hair of the subject. The electrolysis apparatus 1000 also comprises a skin cooling device 200.

[0144] The skin cooling device 200 comprises a cooling arrangement 210 adapted to cool air via conduction and / or convection, a cooling head 220 comprising an outlet 225, and a motor and fan arrangement 240 for driving cooled air out of the outlet 225 and onto the subject’s skin that is being treated with electrolysis, in use. The subject can be a human or an animal that has hair that grows out of a follicle.

[0145] In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 1 , the electrolysis apparatus 1000 includes an electrolysis device 100 and a skin cooling device 200. The electrolysis device 100 and skin cooling device are preferably housed within a housing 110(shown in figure 5).

[0146] The electrolysis device 100 preferably includes I a current generator 120 for generating a treatment pulse. The electrolysis device 100 preferably also includes a user interface 130 such as physical buttons or a touchscreen display with digital buttons to input commands. It is envisaged that in preferred embodiments, the electrolysis apparatus 100 can be configured to deliver any one or more of all existing and future types of electrolysis treatment protocols. The user may wish to change a level of a parameter such as the mode, type of electrolysis. Other parameters are related to intensity of the pulse such as amount of current and impulse time.

[0147] The electrolysis device 100 can include a display 140 which shows the settings that have been selected and to show any alarms or notifications which are important to the user.

[0148] The electrolysis apparatus 100 comprises a controller 150 for controlling the current generator 120. The controller 150 preferably includes a processor 152 and a digital storage media 154 configured with instructions for directing the processor. The controller 150 preferably also includes a transceiver for receiving signals, for example from sensors, and transmitting signals to control operation of the electrolysis apparatus 1000, for example by sending signals to the current generator 120 to generate a desired impulse, or sending signals to the skin cooling device 200, for example to increase airflow or reduce the temperature.

[0149] The electrolysis device 100 further includes a probe 160 that is configured for manual manipulation over and around the subject’s body to be able to apply an electric current directly to a hair follicle. The probe 160 preferably includes a needle 101 that can be electrically charged from the current generator 120 via an electrical cord 115.

[0150] As mentioned above, the electrolysis apparatus 1000 shown in figure 1 further comprises a skin cooling device 200. The applicant has found that a skin cooling device 200 which applies cooled air to the skin which is being treated helps alleviate discomfort experienced by the patient and allows the user to conduct longer electrolysis sessions permanently removing more hair in a single session. This reduces the number of sessions required to fully treat a patient.

[0151] It is envisaged that the skin cooling device 200 may operate on the principles of cooling the subject’s skin using convection or conduction. In order to cool skin using convection, the skin cooling device 200 will preferably cool a flow of air, and blow the cooled air flow over the subject’s skin. In order to cool skin using conduction, it is envisaged that the skin cooling device 200 can cool down a cooling member which may be held against the subject’s skin.

[0152] In the embodiment shown in figure 1 , the skin cooling device operates using the principle of convection. The skin cooling device 200 includes an cooling arrangement 210 adapted to cool a flow of air. The skin cooling device 200 also includes a cooling head 220 (shown in figure 2) comprising an outlet 225, and a motor 240 for driving cooled air out through the cooling head 220 and onto the subject’s skin being treated with electrolysis, in use.

[0153] Figures 1 and Figure 2 illustrate schematic views of an embodiment of the electrolysis apparatus 1000 including an electrolysis apparatus 100 and a skin cooling device 200 housed within a single housing 110, and with the cooling head 220 disposed on the probe 160.

[0154] In alternative embodiments (not shown) as it is envisaged that the cooling head turned and 20 and the probe 160 may not be connected to each other and may be usable separately from each other.

[0155] As shown in Figure 2, it is envisaged that the skin cooling device 200 will work simultaneously with the electrolysis needle 101 to cool the surrounding skin while the electrolysis needle 101 delivers impulses to remove hair. The outlet 222 of the skin cooling device 200 is preferably on a cooling head 220 that is disposed adjacent the probe 160 such that the cooling device moves when the user moves the probe. The cooling head 220 can comprise a nozzle to enable the cooled air to be sprayed out, preferably at a location adjacent the treatment area where the needle 101 is applying current to a hair follicle in use. An advantage of having the outlet 222 of the cooling device adjacent to the skin cooling device 200 is that the user does not need to handle a separate device with a separate hose. In other words, a separate skin cooling device 200 does not interfere with the electrolysis process. This could distract the user and cause error. For example, the user could apply the electrolysis in the wrong area or the cords could tangle leading to unnecessary stresses on the cooling hose or the cord of the electrolysis apparatus 100. Alternatively, if cooling is required to be done by a separate person, this will require additional labour.

[0156] In the embodiment shown in figure 5, the direction of the outlet 222 of the cooling head 220 can be adjustable using a nozzle 224 in order to accurately direct the cool air onto the skin. If the cooling head 220 is attached to the probe 160, the user can use their other hand to manipulate the subject’s skin during the treatment.

[0157] In another embodiment (not shown), the cooling arrangement 210 can comprise a super cooled or cryogen spray, or the cooling of the flow of air may be supplemented by passing it over or through frozen elements such as dry ice, liquid nitrogen, or the like. Thecryogen spray can comprise any suitable non-toxic and biocompatible refrigerant which is sprayed directly onto the skin. In an embodiment the refrigerant can be 1 ,1 ,1,2- tetrafluoroethane which is an environmentally compatible, nontoxic, nonflammable refrigerant that provides epidermal protection and a local anaesthetic effect.

[0158] The cooling arrangement 210 can include a refrigeration circuit (not shown) which uses a refrigeration process to cool air as is known in the art. The refrigeration circuit can include a compressor, a condenser an evaporator and an expansion device.

[0159] The skin cooling device 200 comprises a motor and fan arrangement 240 which pumps cooled air through the conduit 245 to the cooling head 220 which includes an outlet as mentioned above.

[0160] It is envisaged that the skin cooling device 200 can include its own controller, complete with processor, digital storage media and transceiver, however it is preferable that the electrolysis apparatus 1000. The skin cooling device 200 may be provided with its own control panel or user interface 250.

[0161] Figure 3 shows an example of a user interface or control panel 250 for the skin cooling device 200. The user can preferably adjust the temperature and the fan speed to deliver the desired cooling. The control panel may be a touchscreen type interface, or any other suitable user interface, and may be provided with its own display. Alternatively, the display for the electrolysis device 100 can double as the display and / or interface for the skin cooling device 200. It is envisaged that the skin cooling device 200 can provide temperatures of the range of 0 degrees Celsius to about -32 degrees Celsius. The lefthand side of the panel illustrates levels of fan speed and buttons for increasing or decreasing the fan speed. The right-hand side of the panel shows a temperature section with buttons for increasing or decreasing the temperature. The further right hand side of the panel has an on / off button and a button for turning on or turning off the fan.

[0162] As shown in figure 1 , the electrolysis apparatus 100 further comprises a temperature sensor 170 for detecting detect the heat of the skin of a subject after treatment, preferably at a location directly adjacent the probe. The temperature sensor 170 may be an infrared temperature sensor.

[0163] It is envisaged that the controller 150 may be configured to control the amount of cooling effect in accordance with the power output of the current generator, so that as more heat is generated in the subject’s skin, increasing amounts of cooling effect are provided. The controller can also be configured to control operation of the skin cooling device to call the subjects skin when the temperature sensor 170 detects that the temperature of the subject’s skin is over a particular threshold.

[0164] In this way the electrolysis apparatus 100 works in concert with the cooling device to reduce damage caused to the subject’s skin.

[0165] In another embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus 1000 comprises a clock device 180 which can be used to set a timer. When the timer goes beyond a predetermined time period a signal may be provided that cooling is required and the cooling device may be triggered to switch on. In this way, the controller 150 can be configured for automatically actuating the skin cooling device 200 when the electrolysis device 100 has been used for a period of time over a predetermined threshold time period.

[0166] For example, the predetermined treatment time is 15 minutes or half an hour or one hour or longer than one hour.

[0167] In another example, the predetermined treatment time may be a predetermined prolonged treatment time. The predetermined prolonged treatment time can differ from patient to patient and can be based for example, on a history of the patient example from previous sessions.

[0168] In another embodiment, the user can simply turn on the skin cooling device 200 when commencing the electrolysis, and turn it off when electrolysis is complete.

[0169] In a preferred embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus 1000 further comprises an ultrasonic exfoliator 300 for removing dead skin cells from skin of the subject.

[0170] As shown in Figure 4, the ultrasonic exfoliator 300 is a handheld device and comprises a relatively blunt blade 320 which vibrates when switched on. The blade 320 can be made of stainless steel. When the blade 320 is pressed against the skin, the vibrations loosen dead skin cells, dirt and comedones which are removed when the user presses and scrapes the blade along the skin. The ultrasonic exfoliator is preferably connected to the housing 110 by a power cord (not shown).

[0171] The ultrasonic exfoliator 300 comprises a sound wave generator 310 which generates ultrasonic waves, as are known in the art. The sound wave generator 310 is preferably also housed within housing 360. These waves are directed to the blade 320 which in turn, vibrates.

[0172] In this embodiment, it is envisaged that the ultrasonic exfoliator 300 includes an ultrasonic blade 320 which is also configured for applying cooling to the skin of the subject. In this way the ultrasonic blade 320 also operates as the cooling member. The ultrasonic blade may be cooled by a cooling arrangement such as an thermoelectric cooling device in the body which cools the ultrasonic blade. It is envisage that the ultrasonic blade can be used to both exfoliate and cool the subject’s skin at the same time, or can be used to cool or exfoliate independently. It is further envisaged that theultrasonic blade can be reconfigurable between an exfoliating condition and a cooling condition. In the exfoliating condition the blade is better positioned for exfoliating the subject’s skin, for example by presenting an edge along the subject’s skin. In the cooling condition, the blade maybe positioned for better heat transfer, for example by laying a flat surface in abutment with the subject’s skin. The ultrasonic blade 320 may be cooled by thermoelectric cooling, by conduction or convection by a cooling device within the ultrasonic exfoliator.

[0173] It is further envisaged that the combination of the exfoliator and the cooling device can be provided as a separate appliance from the electrolysis device.

[0174] In other embodiments, the ultrasonic exfoliator comprises a vibration motor (not shown). The vibration motor is operably connected to the blade 320 and causes the blade to vibrate.

[0175] In an embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator may be connected to the housing 110 of the electrolysis apparatus 1000 by a power cord for electrically powering the ultrasonic exfoliator 300. The housing 110 of the electrolysis apparatus 1000 can also comprise a power source for the ultrasonic exfoliator.

[0176] In another embodiment, the ultrasonic exfoliator 300 may include a battery 330 and the electrolysis apparatus 1000 may include a charging mount on which the ultrasonic exfoliator may be mounted for charging the battery 330. Alternatively, the user can simply plug in the ultrasonic exfoliator into an adapter (not shown) on the housing 110 of the device.

[0177] Advantageously, an ultrasonic exfoliator 300 efficiently and effectively removes any dead skin cells and dirt and clogs which are blocking the pores to be treated. When used on the skin before the electrolysis apparatus 100, the pores of the target hairs are open and the user is able to more effectively and efficiently treat the target hairs.

[0178] In other embodiments other forms of exfoliation can be used to remove dead skin cells and to prepare the skin before electrolysis.

[0179] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5 the electrolysis apparatus 1000 includes a cord supporter 400. The cord supporter 400 is configured for gripping and holding the cord 115 attached to the needle. The cord supporter 400 comprises an arm 410 with at least one holding formation 420 for gripping and holding a cord. The holding formation 420 can be a hook, for example as shown in Figure 5.

[0180] The arm 420 can have one or more pivoting joints 440. The arm 420 can have two or more segments 425, each segment 425 separated from the other by a joint 440. The one or more joints 440 can allow each segment of the arm to rotate relative to an adjacentsegment. In figure 5, the cord supporter 400 has three segments 425 and two joints 440. In one embodiment each joint 440 can have three rotational degrees of freedom. In other embodiments, each joint can have 1 or two rotational degrees of freedom. In other embodiments, the one or more of the joints 440 can be configured to have a 360-degree range of motion. Preferably, the arm 420 can be pivoted about a substantially vertical axis in use.

[0181] The cord supporter 400 can have one or more holding formations 420 which engage with and retain the cord therewithin. The one of more holding formations 420 can be a resiliently flexible C-clamp (not shown). The c-clamp has an opening in which the cord can be pushed into. The holding formation can be a hook formation. The holding formation can be any suitable clamp or device which holds the cord to the arm.

[0182] Advantageously the cord supporter 400 will help keep the cord out of the way of the user and not get tangled as the user moves around with the needle. Also, the greater the degree of motion of at least the joint closest to the user, the easier it will be for the user to manipulate at least the end of the arm in use.

[0183] In an embodiment of the electrolysis apparatus 1000, and as shown in figure 6, the electrolysis apparatus 1000 preferably further comprises an actuator 500 in the form of a foot pedal that is operably connected to the current generator 120. Upon actuating the actuator 500 by pivoting the foot pedal, the current generator 120 generates and delivers an impulse to the patient via the needle.

[0184] Figure 6 shows an embodiment of an actuator 500 as a foot pedal actuateable by a foot of a user. Advantageously, this allows the user to focus both hands on targeting the individual hairs. In this way, one hand can manipulate and / or smooth out the skin of the subject, or hold the subject still and the other hand can hold and insert the needle into the follicle.

[0185] In the embodiment shown in figure 6, the foot pedal 500 comprises a cover 550 for securing a foot of the user. The foot pedal cover 550 defines an opening 560 through which the foot can be inserted and located over the foot pedal.

[0186] The cover 550 is preferably composed of a flexible material for engaging with a foot of the user. The flexible material may be rubber or silicone or another suitable material that holds the foot snugly within the opening.

[0187] Advantageously, the user can insert their foot into the opening, lift their foot until the top of the foot engages with the underside of the cover 550 and drag the foot pedal 500 into a desired location as they move around the patient to deliver the electrolysis.

[0188] In another embodiment (not shown), the foot pedal can include an adjustable strap for securing the foot of a user to the foot pedal.

[0189] Figure 7 illustrates an electrolysis apparatus 2000 for removal of hair of a subject. The electrolysis apparatus 2000 comprises a skin cooling device 2200 for removing dead skin cells from skin of the subject before hair removal such as shown in Figure 4, as well as an electrolysis device 2100.

[0190] The ultrasonic exfoliator 2300 operates in concert with the electrolysis device 2100. In this embodiment, the cooling head 2220 of the skin cooling device 2200 is handheld where the user can apply the cooling as required. In this embodiment, the electrolysis apparatus 2000 also includes a cord supporter 2400 as described above.

[0191] It is envisaged that the electrolysis apparatus 1000 can include an electrolysis device 100 together with either or both of the skin cooling device 200 and the ultrasonic exfoliator 300. It is envisaged that the electrolysis apparatus 1000 can include an electrolysis device 100 with a cord supporter 400 as described above.

[0192] Another embodiment of an electrolysis apparatus 3000 is shown in figure 8. In this embodiment, the cooling arrangement 210 of the skin cooling device 200 is a thermoelectric cooling arrangement disposed within the probe 160. The thermoelectric cooling arrangement cools a cooling member 270. The cooling member 270 includes a pair of arms 272 that extend distally to a cooling abutment member 274 that is configured for abutment with the skin of the subject, preferably by presenting a substantially flat surface that can be abutted with the skin of the subject. Preferably, the cooling abutment member 274 extends to abut with the skin of the subject substantially surrounding the tip of the needle 101. In alternative embodiments (not shown) it is envisaged that the cooling abutment member may extend to only partially surround the distal tip of the needle 101.

[0193] It is further envisaged that the needle 101 will be movable relative to the cooling abutment member 274 between a retracted position in which the needle is retracted from the skin of the subject in use, and an inserted position in which the needle extends distally of the cooling abutment member so that it can be inserted into a hair follicle in use.

[0194] In the embodiment shown, a biasing arrangement (not shown) preferably biases the needle to its retracted position.

[0195] In this way, the cooling member 270 can be used to both cool the surrounding skin of the subject while the electrolysis is being performed, and the cooling member 270 can be used to stabilise the probe.Interpretation

[0196] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. For the purposes of the present invention, additional terms are defined below. Furthermore, all definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms unless there is doubt as to the meaning of a particular term, in which case the common dictionary definition and / or common usage of the term will prevail.

[0197] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular articles “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise and thus are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. to “at least one”) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, the phrase “an element” refers to one element or more than one element.

[0198] The term “about” is used herein to refer to quantities that vary by as much as 30%, preferably by as much as 20%, and more preferably by as much as 10% to a reference quantity. The use of the word ‘about’ to qualify a number is merely an express indication that the number is not to be construed as a precise value.

[0199] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “comprise”, “comprises” and “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated step or element or group of steps or elements but not the exclusion of any other step or element or group of steps or elements.

[0200] The term “real-time” for example “displaying real-time data,” refers to the display of the data without intentional delay, given the processing limitations of the system and the time required to accurately measure the data.

[0201] As used herein, the term “exemplary” is used in the sense of providing examples, as opposed to indicating quality. That is, an “exemplary embodiment” is an embodiment provided as an example, as opposed to necessarily being an embodiment of exemplary quality for example serving as a desirable model or representing the best of its kind.

[0202] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements thatare conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and / or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

[0203] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and / or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of’ will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0204] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and / or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.Embodiments:

[0205] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0206] Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[0207] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.Specific Details

[0208] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

[0209] It will be appreciated that the methods / apparatus / devices / systems described / illustrated above at least substantially provide an electrolysis machine.

[0210] An electrolysis machine described herein, and / or shown in the drawings, are presented by way of example only and are not limiting as to the scope of the invention.Unless otherwise specifically stated, individual aspects and components of An electrolysis machine may be modified, or may have been substituted therefore known equivalents, or as yet unknown substitutes such as may be developed in the future or such as may be found to be acceptable substitutes in the future. An electrolysis machine may also be modified for a variety of applications while remaining within the scope and spirit of the claimed invention, since the range of potential applications is great, and since it is intended that the present invention be adaptable to many such variations.Terminology

[0211] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.Different Instances of Objects

[0212] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.Combinations of features in embodiments

[0213] Different features are described in different embodiments in this specification, however it is envisaged that any features shown in any embodiment described may be used with any other features in any other embodiment in any combination, unless this is not logically possible.Comprising and Including

[0214] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[0215] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements / features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.Scope of Invention

[0216] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[0217] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.Chronological order

[0218] For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be carried out in chronological order in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.Markush groups

[0219] In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognise that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.Industrial Applicability

[0220] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the beauty industries.

Claims

Claims1) An electrolysis apparatus for removing hair of a subject, the electrolysis apparatus including: a. an electrolysis device configured for delivering electrical impulses to a hair follicle of a hair of the subject, and b. a skin cooling device adapted to cool the skin of the subject.2) The electrolysis apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the skin cooling device includes a cooling arrangement.3) The electrolysis apparatus of claim 2, wherein the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling the skin of the subject via one or more selected from conduction and / or convection.4) The electrolysis apparatus of claim 2, wherein the cooling arrangement is a refrigeration device.5) The electrolysis apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the skin cooling device includes a cooling member configured for being applied to the subject skin, and wherein the cooling arrangement is configured for cooling the cooling member.6) The electrolysis apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a needle for electrolysing a hair follicle and wherein the cooling member is configured to at least partially surround the needle in use.7) The electrolysis apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the electrolysis apparatus includes an ultrasonic exfoliator; and wherein the ultrasonic exfoliator includes an ultrasonic blade configured for cooling the skin of the subject.8) The electrolysis apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the electrolysis apparatus comprises a heat sensor for sensing heat effected by the electrolysis device onto the skin of a subject.9) The electrolysis apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a controller configured for actuating operation of the skin cooling device in accordance with one or more selected from a. the levels of power usage by the electrolysis device; and b. the detected temperature of the user’s skin.10)The electrolysis apparatus of claim 9, wherein the electrolysis apparatus comprises a timer and the controller is configured for actuating operation of the skin cooling device when the timer reaches a predetermined time period.11)The electrolysis apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the skin cooling device comprises an outlet for cool air, and the electrolysis apparatus includes aprobe for electrolysing hair follicles, and wherein the outlet of the skin cooling device is positioned adjacent the probe.12)The electrolysis apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the electrolysis apparatus comprises an actuator activatable by a foot of a user.13)The electrolysis apparatus of claim 12, wherein the foot pedal comprises a cover for securing a foot of the user.14)The electrolysis apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the electrolysis apparatus comprises a cord supporter.15)The electrolysis apparatus of claim 14, wherein the cord supporter comprises an arm, and one or more joints.16)An electrolysis apparatus for removing hair of a subject, the electrolysis apparatus including: a. an ultrasonic exfoliator configured for removing dead skin cells from skin of the subject by application of an ultrasonic frequency to the skin of the subject; b. an electrolysis device configured for delivering electrical impulses to a hair follicle of a hair of the subject, and c. a skin cooling device adapted to cool the skin of the subject.17)An electrolysis system for removing hair of a subject, comprising a. an ultrasonic exfoliator for removing dead skin cells from skin of the subject before hair removal; and b. an electrolysis device configured to remove hair from the skin of a subject.18)An electrolysis system for removing hair of a subject, comprising a. an electrolysis device configured to remove hair from the skin of a subject, the electrolysis device comprising a housing and a probe, the probe being connected to the housing by an electrical cord; b. a cord supporting arrangement configured for supporting the electrical cord above the subject over the distance between the housing and the probe.19)An electrolysis apparatus for removing hair of a subject, the electrolysis apparatus including: a. an ultrasonic exfoliator configured for removing dead skin cells from skin of the subject by application of an ultrasonic frequency to the skin of the subject, the ultrasonic exfoliator comprising: i. a skin cooling device adapted to cool the skin of the subject, andb. an electrolysis device configured for delivering electrical impulses to a hair follicle of a hair of the subject. )The electrolysis apparatus of claim 19, wherein the ultrasonic exfoliator comprises an ultrasonic blade configured for applying cooling to the skin of the subject.

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