Abstract: A method of removing hair by epilation employing thermolysis in which the probe is inserted into the follicle parallel to the hair shaft, applying multiple bursts of energy to the tip of the probe located adjacent the papilla in an amount for each burst not exceeding 80% of that required to destroy the papilla, followed by applying the same level of energy at intermediate points along the follicle, and repeating the procedure after the hair shaft is removed. Multiple applications of heat are applied to destroy the papilla without damaging the skin. Hair regrowth is minimized by applying the heat at various points along the length of the follicle.