What is an Electrolysis and Laser Technician?

Wondering what an Electrolysis and Laser Technician is? Are you in a constant battle to get rid of unwanted hair? Waxing, shaving, plucking – ugh! It’s not fun and you’ve probably thought about finding a more permanent solution. Maybe you’re interested in a future helping others with hair removal. Either way, you may be wondering what exactly an electrolysis and laser technician actually does. To help you on your quest to be (or help others be) ultra-smooth, it’s probably a good idea to discuss the differences between two techniques with the same purpose – hair removal.

What Is Electrolysis?

Electrolysis is the process of inserting an ultra-thin needle into a hair follicle and sending an electric current through it to permanently destroy the growth center of the hair. The number of sessions required to permanently remove the hair will vary from person to person but once complete, the results are typically permanent. Most people find the process fairly painless, but your technician may be able to numb the area with an anesthetic cream. Electrolysis is the only hair removal method endorsed by the FDA for permanent hair removal.

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses a hand-held laser to emit a concentrated beam of light directly to the hair follicles. The light is converted to heat and is absorbed by the pigment of the hair, blocking or slowing down hair growth. This procedure can effectively minimize or delay hair growth, but it is not permanent. Multiple treatments are required, and you may need periodic maintenance treatments. Patients who undergo laser hair removal are cautioned to avoid sunlight and tanning beds for at least six weeks before, during and after treatments and should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF daily. You’ll also need to wear protective eyewear during the procedure. The technician may apply a topical anesthetic to minimize any pain or discomfort.

Which Is Better, Electrolysis or Laser Hair Removal?

The answer is – it depends. Both procedures have pros and cons. You should also consider which procedure you are a better candidate for. Electrolysis is effective on people of every skin and hair type or color. However, laser hair removal is less effective for people with lighter hair color and darker skin. The bottom line is that it’s best to consult a professional to determine which procedure is the most suitable for your specific needs.

Who Can Perform Electrolysis and Laser Hair Removal?

That brings us to what electrolysis and laser technicians actually do. All of the above! Providing they have completed an approved Florida Electrolysis Council and Florida Board of Medicine 320-hour program, licensing exam, and the continuing education requirements. What is most important to note is that electrolysis and laser technicians MUST operate under the direct supervision and responsibility of a physician properly trained and licensed in hair removal in a licensed facility.

The Best of Both Worlds and More

If a career helping people remove unwanted hair sounds like an interesting way to make a living, it can also be a lucrative one. The laser hair removal industry alone, is expected to reach nearly $1.4 billion by 2027. If you really want to maximize your potential, you should check out the Electrolysis & Laser Technician Program at Celebrity School of Beauty. Celebrity’s 650-hour program offers comprehensive training in both electrolysis and laser hair removal, but also includes the fundamentals of skin care, skin therapies and facial treatments. Graduates can apply for dual Florida licensing as an Electrologist and Facial Specialist. Multi-faceted training means a broad set of skills that can open the door to more opportunities! Mornings not your thing? No problem! Celebrity’s Electrolysis & Laser Technician classes are also available in the evening.