November 2009
CALFORNIA
Board of Barbering and Cosmetology State of California Department of Consumer Affairs
P.O. Box 944226 • Sacramento, CA 94244-2260
Information: 1-800-952-5210 | www.barbercosmo.ca.gov
To some, the name “Board of Barbering and Cosmetology”, in itself, can be misleading. The name does not encompass all of the professions that the Board examines and licenses. Specifically, it does not recognize the nearly 2,000 Board licensees that work in the profession of permanent hair removal—electrologists. Electrology is the practice of removing hair from, or destroying hair on the human body by the use of an electric needle.
According to the Electrologists’ Association of California, “A trained licensed electrologist selects a fine sterile needle, as thin as a hair, and gently slides it into the hair follicle located along side the hair. A tiny amount of electrical current is applied, destroying the hair root.” The hair “is permanently removed.”
Electrology is a specialized service that can only be performed by licensed electrologists. No other professional, not even cosmetologists, are allowed to perform this type of service. Additionally, any facility that offers electrology services, whether it is a salon, barbershop, or medical facility, must also obtain a State Board establishment license.
Some services that electrologists cannot provide are cauterizing spider veins, laser treatments, and the administration of medication. These types of services must be performed by licensed medical professionals.
With the current status of the economy, everyone could use additional income. What better way to increase your income while expanding your abilities than a career in the in-demand profession of electrology? Those who are interested in pursuing a career as an electrology professional in California must complete 600 hours of coursework at one of the three Board-approved electrology schools. Once training is completed, you must submit a license and exam application and pass a written and practical examination. The examination will test your ability in hair removal by electrolysis, thermolysis, or blend and the following:
After you have successfully passed the examination, you will receive a license to legally operate as an electrologist and be on your way to generating additional income.
For more information, contact the Board at 1-800-952-5210 or www.barbercosmo.ca.gov.
CALFORNIA
Board of Barbering and Cosmetology State of California Department of Consumer Affairs
P.O. Box 944226 • Sacramento, CA 94244-2260
Information: 1-800-952-5210
www.barbercosmo.ca.gov
Staff Members:
Kristy Underwood — Executive Officer
Denise Johnson — Deputy Executive Officer
Betty Ho — Staff Writer
The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology does not endorse any article, product, advertisement, or service contained in this newspaper. If you have any questions or concerns about the contents of any article in this newspaper you believe may affect you as a licensee, you may write to: Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, P.O. Box 944226, Sacramento, California, 94244-226
