fbpx
The Metallic Taste Mystery

The Metallic Taste Mystery: Galvanic Electrolysis and Sensory Perceptions

Galvanic Electrolysis, a popular hair removal method, has sometimes left clients puzzled with a peculiar metallic taste during the treatment. At Permanence, we believe in demystifying every aspect of our services. Let’s delve into this phenomenon from the perspective of a Galvanic Electrologist using Galvanic Multi Probe Electrolysis. Experiencing a metallic taste in your mouth during a session? It’s intriguing, isn’t it? This sensation can be attributed to the stimulation of the lingual nerves – a benign occurrence.

During galvanic electrolysis, as the electric current is applied to the skin and enters the hair follicle via a probe, it is possible for the electric current to inadvertently stimulate nearby nerves, including the lingual nerves. This stimulation can lead to sensory perceptions, interpreted by your brain as a metallic taste.

  1. Nerve Stimulation: The lingual nerves are part of the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensory information from the face and mouth. When an electric current is applied to the skin during galvanic electrolysis, it creates an electric field that can interact with nearby nerves. This interaction can lead to nerve depolarization, which is the process by which nerve cells become activated and send signals to the brain. 
  2. Sensory Perception: The nerves in the mouth and tongue are involved in transmitting various sensory signals, including touch, temperature, pain, and taste. When the lingual nerves are inadvertently stimulated by the electric current from the galvanic electrolysis probe, they might send signals to the brain that are interpreted as different sensations, including a metallic taste.
  3. Brain Interpretation: Our brain receives and processes sensory signals from various parts of the body. However, the brain does not always interpret these signals accurately. For example, when certain nerves are stimulated, the brain might interpret the signal as a taste sensation, even though the source of the stimulation is not related to taste. 
  4. Similar Phenomena: The sensation of a metallic taste during galvanic electrolysis is somewhat analogous to the sensation people experience when touching their tongue to a 9-volt battery. The electric current from the battery stimulates the nerves in the tongue, leading to a unique metallic taste perception. In both cases, the sensation arises from the interaction between nerves and the electric currents. 
  5. Sensitivity Variation: Not everyone undergoing galvanic electrolysis will experience a metallic taste. Sensitivity to nerve stimulation can vary greatly among individuals. Some might experience the taste sensation more strongly than others, while some might not experience it at all. 

In summary

The metallic taste sensation experienced during galvanic electrolysis is likely due to the interaction between the electric current from the probe and the lingual nerves responsible for taste and the other sensations in the mouth. It is a complex interplay between nerve stimulation, signal transmission, and brain interpretation. While the sensation can be unusual or unexpected, it is generally temporary and not harmful, and should subside soon after the treatment has begun or near its completion.

Share this post

More from our Blog

Sydney CBD Bookings

Drummoyne Bookings