Electrology Schools in New York State

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

How to Become a Electrologist in New York

There's nothing quite as embarrassing as unwanted hair, so why not go into a cosmetology specialty that allows you to solve this problem for your customers? Electrolysis involves placing a probe into a hair follicle and using a pulse to destroy the hair-growing tissue. Millions of people live in shame of their too-thick or fast-growing body hair, and as an electrologist, you can make a difference. Find out more about this field of beauty by contacting the schools in your area today. They will send you information that can make it simple for you to choose the best program for you!

State License Requirements

While New York does have strict licensing requirements for other beauty professions, it does not currently have any licensing standards for electrologists. Although you can legally work without any professional training or education, it is important to know how to use electrology equipment before you begin working. For that reason, you may want to attend an accredited electrology education program before you become an electrologist.

Education Details

New York is a state where electrolysis is unlicensed, which means that your training may differ significantly depending on where you attend school. You may start with a theory component, which teaches you about the makeup of a hair follicle and how hair grows. Your instructors will go through the process of electrolysis with you so that you understand how it stops hair growth. Once you've developed a solid understanding of hair growth and how electrolysis works, you can move onto the practical applications of your training. Several factors affect how you treat a patient, including probes, intensity, timing, and depth of insertion. You'll study each of these factors and start figuring out how to apply them to individual clients. You can plan on spending lots of time with electrolysis tools to build your confidence. As an electrologist, you are working with some of the most sensitive parts of people's bodies. That's why hygiene and sanitation are such an important part of electrology in New York. A big part of your training involves keeping your tools and work area clean.

License Renewal

New York is one of several states that does not regulate the field of electrology. However, to work most effectively in this state you will need to earn your certification from the American Electrology Association. The cost for the exam is $325 for nonmembers, and $275 for members. This certification expires every five years, so you will want to reapply before the period ends to avoid having to stop your practice. The AEA also offers quality continuing education opportunities for professionals as well.

New York Electrology Careers

One of the main benefits of starting a career in this field is the explosive job outlook. Estimates provided by O*Net indicate a possible 39% increase in skin care specialist jobs between 2010 and 2020. In New York, this growth may lead to over 150 new jobs per year (O*Net, 2010). You may be able to claim a rewarding salary as a New York skin care specialist. According to O*Net, the average salary for a skin care specialist in this state is $28,500 per year. Those with lots of experience or seniority may earn $64,000 or more per year (O*Net, 2013). In New York, electrologists do not have to worry about getting licensed or regulated by the government. However, you may still wish to join a local group like the New York Electrolysis Association.This group helps you market your skills to clients and hosts regular events.

Once you've completed your training and you're ready to start working with clients, you can begin your career at a spa, salon, dermatology clinic, or independently-run shop. Just like in other beauty professions, electrology often requires professionals to work nights and weekends, since you may have to be available for people that work during the day. Since electrology is such a highly specialized profession, you may only need to go to work when you have scheduled appointments. To succeed in this field, you need excellent communication skills. You'll likely spend just as much time giving consultations as you do performing electrolysis. During a consultation, you can provide full information on the procedure, find out if a customer is a good fit for electrolysis, and prepare them for the aftercare aspect of electrolysis. When they leave your room, customers should feel confident of your skills and their choice to get electrolysis. In addition to the other benefits of working in this field, you can leave work every day knowing that you are improving people's lives. Tana, an electrologist, tells about how fulfilled she feels by her career in electrology. After being ridiculed in school for her fast-growing arm and leg hair, she went through electrolysis herself and decided to get started in this field. Like her, you can use your desire to help people to create a great career.

Contact the New York State Board of Cosmetology

New York has no shortage of expert beauty technicians with years of quality service. While there isn’t a dedicated board to the specialty of electrology, many professionals have taken up the trade. Those interested in learning more visit these organizations.

New York Electrolysis Association
Berkowits School
Lia Schorr Institute of Cosmetic Skin Care