Becoming An Electrologist

General Information

The primary objective of electrology is to help people improve their physical appearance and self-esteem through the permanent removal of unwanted hair. Thousands of women, men, and teens suffer emotional trauma from superfluous hair growth and feel unattractive and self-conscious.

This negative self-image and lack of confidence may become problematic in both the workplace and in social settings.

Electrology, the process of permanently removing unwanted hair, has evolved into its own profession and is receiving greater recognition from the general public as well as acceptance by the medical community. It is medically recognized as the ONLY method of permanent hair removal.

There are many factors within our bodies which can play a role in the development of unwanted hair. Some of the factors are normal, biological changes that we undergo throughout our lives, such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Other causes are related to glandular disorders that may cause elevated levels of androgen hormones. These hormones can be responsible for the development of superfluous hair or hirsutism.

Many people grow excess hair simply because of heredity factors, while in others, stress, emotional problems, and certain medications encourage the body's production of androgens, causing excess hair growth. The electrologist is trained to recognize hair growth patterns and outward symptoms which may require referral to a physician, most times an endocrinologist.

The good news is that unwanted hair can be removed permanently, through electrology treatments. The treatment involves placing a sterile needle/probe into the hair follicle and transmitting a small amount of electrical energy into the follicle. The current destroys the hair's regenerative cells, and the treated hair is then removed from the skin. Once the regenerative cells have been eliminated, there is no possible way for the hair to be reproduced.

A Rewarding Career

An electrologist-patient/client relationship is often a personal one. Great satisfaction can be derived from helping others achieve a better self-image. Whether you have a desire to be self-employed or wish to work with other caring professionals, a career in electrology can provide:

• professional and personal satisfaction in helping others
• opportunity for challenge and self-growth
• flexible hours
• financial independence

For a minimal investment - generally under $10,000 - you can establish your own practice. Most electrologists are, in fact, entrepreneurs - independent professionals and business people in private practices. Others work either under an experienced electrologist, where other allied health services are provided, or in a cosmetology related environment. Which ever you choose, you can earn a substantial income and achieve the financial independence you've always desired. It is estimated that the full-time, established electrologist averages between $25,000 and $50,000 per year. You can set your own work schedule and maintain business hours on the days of your choice.

Every entrepreneur needs to be a self-starter and have an outgoing personality with the ability to communicate easily with others. In addition, an electrologist who works alone must exhibit good business practices, must be able to manage a business with patient/client relationships, and must be knowledgeable in record keeping and marketing.

Obtaining an education in electrology is relatively inexpensive when compared with other professionals of similar income potential. In most states, electrology is a licensed profession.

The AEA Is Here To Help You Achieve Success

For over four decades, the American Electrology Association, a nonprofit organization with over 2,000 members worldwide, has been dedicated to the professionalism of electrology practitioners.

An internationally recognized certification program, inaugurated by the AEA in 1986, is governed by the International Board of Electrologists Certification (IBEC). The Board certification examination was developed as an additional credential to licensing, in conjunction with, and administered by, the prestigious Educational Testing Services of Princeton, New Jersey. The AEA's Office of Continuing Education is affiliated with The National Council on The Continuing Education unit.

Once you have completed your electrology training and passed your IBEC Board certification examination, you will become a Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE). You will also be advised of and encouraged to participate in continuing education programs to keep abreast of pertinent knowledge related to the practice of electrology and to maintain Board certification.

The AEA, foremost in the allied health profession of electrology, invites you to contact us for more information; we seek individuals who can draw from their training and energy to build and maintain high standards of the profession. We look forward to your joining us in a rewarding career as an electrologist.

Additional Resources

• Become A Member of The American Electrology Association
• Become A Certified Professional Electrologist
• Licensing & Legislation
• Electrology Schools
• Electrologist Resources
• Success Coach Articles