How Much Do Electrologists Make? Salary Facts and Career Outlook

How Much Do Electrologists Make?

Electrology is a niche profession that involves the permanent removal of unwanted hair using electricity. If you're considering a career as an electrologist, you may be wondering about the earning potential. Here, we'll take a close look at how much electrologists typically make.

Who Are Electrologists?

Electrologists are skincare specialists who use electrology techniques to permanently remove hair. Electrology involves inserting a fine probe into each hair follicle and applying a small electrical current to damage the area that produces new hair growth.

Electrologists mainly treat clients who want to remove hair from areas like the face, legs, underarms and bikini line. Reasons people seek electrolysis include:

• Removing unwanted facial hair
• Eliminating ingrown hairs
• Getting rid of post-waxing or post-shaving bumps
• Achieving smooth skin for cosmetic reasons
• Supporting gender transition

Electrologists typically work in salons, spas or private offices. Some travel between locations to serve clients.

Electrologist Salary Statistics

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average national salary for electrologists is $37,280 per year as of 2021. The pay range usually falls between $22,010 and $63,910 annually.

Here's a breakdown of average electrologist salaries by percentage:

• 10th percentile: $22,010 per year
• 25th percentile: $27,080 per year
• 50th percentile (median): $37,280 per year
• 75th percentile: $50,160 per year
• 90th percentile: $63,910 per year

Electrologist pay can vary based on your geographic location. Here are the states with the highest average salaries:

1. District of Columbia - $55,600
2. Washington - $54,450
3. New Mexico - $52,650
4. Maryland - $49,900
5. Alaska - $49,460

And here are the states with the lowest average electrologist salaries:

1. South Dakota - $28,790
2. Nebraska - $30,730
3. Alabama - $31,050
4. Kansas - $31,310
5. Iowa - $31,970

Factors That Influence Electrologist Salaries

Several factors can affect how much an electrologist earns, including:

Location

As shown above, location significantly impacts pay for electrologists. Those working in expensive metro areas and states with a higher cost of living tend to earn more.

Experience

Electrologists gain skills, speed and an established client base as they gain experience. Those just starting out earn less, while seasoned electrologists can charge higher rates.

Type of Employment

Electrologists working as independent contractors or business owners may earn more but also face more overhead costs. Those employed by a hospital system, spa or salon may make less but have more job security.

Hours Worked

Electrologists paid hourly or per service will see their earnings rise and fall based on the number of hours worked each week. More hours equals more pay up to a point.

Tips

Most clients tip their electrologist, especially if they are happy with the results. These tips can add up to thousands in extra income per year.

Products Sold

Electrologists who sell skincare products, post-treatment creams or home care kits at their practice can supplement their income through retail sales.

Job Outlook for Electrologists

The BLS projects that demand for electrologists will grow 24% between 2020-2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to about 1,600 new positions opening up over the decade.

Several factors contribute to the positive job outlook:

• Rising disposable incomes allow more people to afford elective aesthetic procedures like electrolysis.
• The elderly population is increasing, driving up demand for permanent hair removal.
• More physicians are referring patients for electrolysis.
• Greater social acceptance makes procedures like electrolysis more mainstream.

The growing demand for qualified electrologists may give talented professionals more leverage when negotiating pay rates with employers or setting prices for their own practice.

Earning Potential for Electrologists

Electrologists have several options for enhancing their earning ability over time:

Become an Expert

Pursuing advanced certifications in newer electrolysis techniques can set you apart. Specializing in areas like transgender electrolysis care is another avenue.

Build Your Reputation

Positive reviews, before-and-after photos and word-of-mouth referrals can help establish you as a top electrologist in your community.

Start Your Own Practice

Launching a private practice gives you freedom to set pricing, sell retail products, rent a booth at a salon and hire staff under your brand.

Expand Your Services

Providing other sought-after treatments like facials, body waxing, microblading or microdermabrasion can attract new clients.

Move to a Prime Location

Relocating your practice to an affluent area with demand for electrology can boost your earning ability long-term.

Increase Your Efficiency

With training and practice, you can treat more hair follicles per hour. The more clients you can serve, the more you stand to make.

Adjust Your Rates

Periodically evaluate your rates compared to competitors and local economic factors. Raising prices for existing clients requires finesse but can improve profitability.

Other Benefits of Being an Electrologist

In addition to the salary potential, electrology offers some appealing benefits:

• Flexibility - Set your own hours by owning a practice or renting space from a salon.
• Mobile Business - Treat clients in their homes or your home studio.
• Helping People - Improve confidence by eliminating embarrassing hair. Support transgender clients.
• Creativity - Express your artistry through permanent makeup options.
• Mental Stimulation - Electrolysis requires precision, critical thinking and focus.
• Hygienic Environment - Modern tools make electrolysis very sanitary compared to other beauty jobs.

Starting an Electrolysis Career

If the idea of helping clients achieve smooth, hair-free skin appeals to you, a career in electrolysis may offer both personal fulfillment and financial rewards. Do thorough research about the profession, understand the costs of training, and make connections within the industry to position yourself for success.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.