Electrolysis Technician
If you are looking for a career in the beauty industry that has long-term security and new opportunities for graduates, you may consider becoming an electrolysis technician. BeautySchools.com understands the importance of this field of study for prospective students. We have lots of helpful information below, including licensing requirements, curriculum details, and how to reach out to schools in your area. With our simple process for contacting schools, you don’t have to search multiple sites to get a full perspective. We recommend contacting 3-4 programs to be sure you choose the best one for you.
What is electrolysis?
At the highest level, an electrolysis technician is a professional who specializes in permanent hair removal by applying an electrical charge to individual hairs at the follicle. Although it is not a new process, it has become one of the most popular beauty services today.
How is it different from Laser Hair Removal?
First, electrolysis is completely safe and it works on all hair types and colors and can be performed in any setting, including at home. Electrolysis is much less expensive than laser hair removal and is currently the only permanent hair removal treatment recognized by the FDA. A professional electrolysis technician requires, at minimum, a state license to practice, and some states require certification as well.
Three Basic Types of Electrical Current
- Glavanic electrolysis uses a direct current to transform your skin’s water and salt into sodium, which thus destroys the follicle.
- Thermolysis alternates currents to heat the water in your skin to destroy the follicle.
- Blend electrolysis uses a combination of glavanic electrolysis and thermolysis to destroy the follicle.
Advance Your Career in Electrology
Like other careers in the cosmetology field, there are numerous opportunities for you to continue you career development after receiving a state license license. In addition to state specific electrology associations, we recommend becoming a part of a national organization for electrologists including the American Electrology Association and The Society for Clinical and Medical Hair Removal.
Is this the career for you?
Performing electrolysis consists of very detailed and time-consuming work because as an electrolysis technician you must go over the area to be treated inch-by-inch, and remove individual hairs one at a time. The most common areas of skin that clients will ask to be treated include You should also have knowledge of basic hygiene and sterilization procedures to prevent causing an infection during or after treatment. As an electrolysis technician you can work in a variety of settings such as a salon, spa or medical facility. If you are going into business for yourself, then you will need to have the basic skills it takes to run a small business including basic record-keeping, time management, and marketing knowledge will help you to succeed.
Aside from having patience, a steady hand, good vision and attention to detail, you should also have very good interpersonal skills, and love working with and helping people.
Find a school by CLICKING HERE to view our state page and narrowing down to your state!
What are the education and certification requirements?
Most states require an electrolysis technician to be licensed, and some require additional certification and on-going education. Check out our electrolysis training program page for more detailed information about the training required. You can also contact your state’s board of health to find out the specific requirements for your state. You will typically need a minimum of 200 hours of formal training in order to become a licensed technician, and then you need to pass a written exam and another exam where you demonstrate your basic ability.
There are programs that offer a 3-month course for licensing, or you can take the necessary courses as part of a cosmetology program. If you plan on making electrolysis a career and not just a side-certification as past of a career as a cosmetologist, then you should look into becoming a Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE). This requires finding a program that is accredited by the International Board of Electrologists and/or the American Electrology Association Board.
Programs can run anywhere between nine months and one year, but it is worth the time and effort to look into professional certification as it can affect your salary and employment prospects when looking for a job. Download the American Electrology Association’s application form and find more information on testing or find a school by viewing our state page!
Job outlook and salary information
Overall Average Salary While some electrolysis technicians can earn as much as $51,000 per year, the Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the overall average salary as about $32,030 for full-time workers. The salary of electrolysis technicians can vary significantly, depending upon various factors. However, according to the BLS, the median salary is about $13.90 per hour.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the highest-paying states to pay an average of $40,000-$46,00 a year and includes Delaware, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington State. Keep in mind, these ranges can fluctuate based on if you are in more of an urban or rural location as well. Salary Based on Employer There are many places that an electrolysis technician may choose to work, and the salary they will earn really depends on the employer. According to the BLS, the highest-paying sector for electrolysis technicians is that of doctor’s offices, paying an average of $39,540 per year.
The second highest-paying sector is recreation, paying about $38,450 per year. Technicians who choose to work in outpatient care facilities earn an average of $37,650 per year, and those who work in hospitals earn an average of $37,280. Department stores pay quite well, with an average salary of $36,660 per year, while individual health services and travel accommodations pay an average of $33,220 and $31,660 per year respectively. Job Outlook and Advancement Opportunities There are many possibilities for advancement in the electrolysis field. Technicians who choose to work for large salons or electrolysis facilities can become supervisors or managers with experience. Some even choose to become teachers in colleges and universities, while others open their own salons after gaining experience elsewhere.
The job outlook for electrolysis technicians is extremely favorable. This is mainly due to the fact that more people today are concerned with their personal appearance, and they are willing to spend the money on electrolysis treatments. Thus, the demand for these professionals is quite high, making careers in electrolysis some of the most lucrative careers today.
Thank you for visiting BeautySchools.com! We hope you take the next step toward a career in electrolysis. To learn if this type of program is best for you, simply request information from our featured schools in your area!
Browse All Electrology Schools in the U.S.
You must attend a school that is approved by your state to provide training in the discipline you want to practice. Check with the school and the state board to be sure that your program of study will prepare you for any applicable state licensure.