Electrolysis is one of the most popular and effective methods for permanent removal of unwanted body hair. It involves using a very small amount of electricity to destroy the root of each individual hair follicle, preventing hair from continuing to grow. There are three types of electrolysis methods that can be used for this process: the galvanic or chemical method, the thermolysis or short-wave heat producing method and the blend method which combines both galvanic and thermolysis. A career in the electrolysis field requires specialized training and certification, but it is a field that continues to grow yearly.
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Electrolysis Training
Specialized training to become an electrologist or electrolysis technician is offered by many cosmetology schools as part of a comprehensive program or individually at an electrolysis school. Typically you will need to complete 120 to 600 hours of training, depending on the state where your school is located. Classes in electrolysis include hair follicle anatomy and physiology and hair analysis and are designed to train you in latest laser hair removal methods. Electrolyisis schools will also teach you, the prospective electrologist, the correct terminology associated with the field and how to complete all procedures. There is a lot of hands-on training so that the electrolysis technician can gain experience as she learns and prepares. As part of the training, some programs also include internships at salons and spas that will help the student gain further hands-on experience and acquire customer service skills.
Electrolysis Licensing and Certification
Each state has different requirements to obtain a license to practice electrolysis, but all require a certain minimum number of hours of training and work experience. For example, New York requires 120 hours of practice and theory, while New Jersey requires 320 hours and Florida requires 600 total hours in order to meet the licensing requirement. Some states also require a written exam in addition to your electrolysis training.
As an electrologist, if you want to show yourr commitment to the profession even further, you can also seek national certification. According to the American Electrology Association, becoming a Certified Professional Electrologist proves that the electrologist’s knowledge and skills have been measured against a national standard and that the electrologist has made a commitment to maintain this certification by taking continuing education courses. The certification is achieved by taking the CPE exam, which is administered annually before the AEA’s national convention. Recertification is necessary every five years and the organization has more information on the courses that can be applied towards the continuing education requirement.
The Society for Clinical and Hair Removal also offers national certification, arranged by modalities such as Certified Clinical Electrologist, Certified Medical Electrologist and Certified Laser Hair Removal Professional, which is designed for health practitioners including physicians and nurses. In order to be certified, the electrologist must take and pass the appropriate exam.
Electrologists’ Job Duties
An electrolysis technician has many responsibilities during the workday. You will be responsible for getting to know your customers’ needs and preferences, while making them feel comfortable. You need to sterilize the skin area for the procedure and to complete the hair removal. Electrologists provide many services including removing unwanted facial and body hair, reshaping brows and even permanently changing the hair line. For some clients with a doctor’s note, an electrologist can even remove hair from a mole.
Career Outlook for Electrologists’
Electrolysis is a field that offers great growth potential and independence. Many electrologists work independently, but others works for established salons, spas and medical offices. The American Electrology Association estimates that full-time electrologists with established practices and clientele lists earn between $25,000 and $50,000 per year, all while maintaining complete control of their work hours and days.
