Electrology Schools in Connecticut

Browse our directory of electrology schools in Connecticut, or skip ahead to learn about the state's electrology licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Electrologist in Connecticut

Working as an electrologist is perhaps a unique niche within the larger beauty industry. Problems with unwanted hair are very personal problems that are often a cause of considerable embarrassment and loss of self-esteem. Electrologists, the professionals who use the processes of electrolysis to permanently remove the unwanted hair from the face or body, must be deeply sensitive individuals who can resonate to the discomfort many clients feel in coming to you for help with this intimate issue. They must be able to make their clients feel comfortable and taken care of, and they must have top-notch technical skills to utilize the tools of the profession for best effect. In addition, they must be able to run a small business, handling all of the business details that require time and attention. Electrolysis works, basically, by using an electrical current to kill the hair root, thus making hair re-growth impossible. A fine needle is inserted directly into the hair root. There are three modalities of electrolysis that are typically used: galvanic, thermolytic, and blend. Galvanic sends an electrical current into the hair root, causing a chemical reaction that kills the hair root. Thermolytic uses radio waves to create heat, causing electrocoagulation of the hair root, killing it. Blend combines elements of both the galvanic and thermolytic modalities and has many of the advantages of both. Electrologists are generally trained in all three modalities as well as when and how to use each one.

State License Requirements

Electrologists in Connecticut are required to be licensed by the state. To be eligible for this license, you must complete 600 hours of training at a state-accredited institution. You must be at least 18 years of age, and have a high school diploma or equivalent. To become licensed, you will need to take and pass an exam that tests both your theoretical knowledge and your practical skills.

Education Details

Electrolysis programs are offered at many schools of cosmetology, as well as some free-standing schools. Some community colleges may also offer programs in electrolysis, leading to a two year associate's degree. In community college programs, you will study more general subjects such as the social sciences, humanities, and sciences, as well as specialized courses in electrology. Programs in cosmetology and free-standing schools are more targeted in that they focus on the theory and skills you need to become a practicing electrologist. You will learn the anatomy and physiology of skin and hair, and the process of hair growth. You will learn the different modalities electrolysis uses, and how to perform each one with minimum pain and minimum damage to surrounding skin. Courses will focus on sanitation and sterilizing skin and equipment. In addition to learning how to do the electrolysis procedure per se, you will learn about running an electrolysis business, including skills such as maintaining databases, invoicing, and working with third party payers such as insurance companies.

License Renewal

Connecticut licensees must renew their licenses every two years after licensing in the last day of their birth month. Failing to renew by this date causes your license to lapse. To renew a lapsed license, you must complete either 135 hours of education through a refresher course or successfully pass the Prometric Licensing Examination. Cosmetology and barber licenses cost $100 to renew. Electrology licenses cost $205 to renew. Massage therapy licenses come with a renewal cost of $255. Connecticut does require you to complete 10 cosmetology continuing education hours to renew your license, though CEUs are always recommended to stay current in the industry.

Connecticut Electrology Careers

According to statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for skincare specialists, including electrologists and laser hair removal specialists is $28,940. Electrologists are among the most professional and the most specialized of the skincare specialists, and thus, can often command a significantly higher salary. If you run your own electrolysis business, you also stand to earn a higher income. This is also true if you are aligned with healthcare providers, and practice your profession in medical settings. Accepting reimbursement from insurance companies and other third party payers can also increase your earnings potential (www.bls.gov/oes/CURRENT/oes395094.htm). Demand for electrologists in the state of Connecticut is expected to grow in the coming years.

Electrologists work in a variety of different settings. Probably most often, they work in beauty salons and spas, in a separate area that affords you and the client complete privacy. Some electrologists open their own offices. Still others offer their services at physician's offices and other medical facilities, often by referral from medical providers. Electrologists must be able to perform a variety of tasks during the course of the day, from scheduling and billing, to cleaning and neatening your work area, to greeting clients and making them feel comfortable, to performing the electrolysis procedure itself. Of course, active listening skills are invaluable, as many clients will want to talk during their procedure. And, since it usually takes multiple sessions to remove an area of unwanted hair, you will develop a relationship with your clients that lasts over a period of time and may require that you listen to them speak about many aspects of their lives. Electrologists work by appointment and, thus, have considerable scheduling latitude. They must be available, however, when their clients wish to utilize their services, which will probably mean working at least some evening hours and weekends. Still, it is possible for electrologists to work either part-time or full-time, and fit their work life around other commitments such as taking care of young children. If you are seeking a career in the beauty industry that has meaning and can make a real difference in people's lives, and you have the maturity and poise to deal with very personal issues, a career in electrology in Connecticut may be a very good career option for you!

Contact the Connecticut State Board of Cosmetology

Connecticut is a state where the hair care and beauty industry is thriving due in part to established professionals with diverse skills. These skills have grown to include on-site electrology in recent years. Those who wish to learn more about acquiring electrology techniques consult with these groups to start.

Connecticut Department of Health
Electrology Institute of N.E.
American Institute of Education