Beyond Laser & IPL: Why Electrolysis Deserves A Spot in Every Treatment Room.

In a world where new technologies in beauty and aesthetics seem to appear overnight, there’s one time-tested treatment making a quiet, confident return: Electrolysis.

Once seen as the “gold standard” for permanent hair removal, electrolysis quietly took a back seat in the 1990s when laser and IPL hit the market. It was pushed aside in favour of newer, quicker, tech-forward treatments that seemed to meet the demand of the time.

But here’s what’s happening now: electrolysis is having a renaissance—and for good reason.

Electrolysis: The Precision Partner for Laser & IPL Laser and IPL treatments have transformed our industry, offering fast and effective hair reduction for many clients. But here’s the truth every therapist knows:

• They don’t work for everyone

• They don’t treat all hair colours or skin tones

• They don’t permanently remove every hair

This is where electrolysis steps in—not as a competitor, but as a powerful complement.

Electrolysis is the only treatment for permanent hair removal. It’s incredibly effective for fine, light, grey, white, and red hairs that Laser and IPL can’t target. It’s also safe and reliable for smaller, delicate areas, hormonal hair growth, and clients with medical conditions like PCOS or undergoing gender-affirming treatments.

A Growing Demand—and a Shortage of Electrologists There’s something not enough people are talking about: We have a skills shortage in this modality.

As demand for inclusive, long-term hair removal grows, the industry is facing a real gap in qualified professionals. Clinics are struggling to find trained electrologists—those with the confidence and clinical knowledge to perform safe, effective treatments.

For therapists looking to future-proof their careers, this shortage represents a huge opportunity. By gaining these skills now, you’re setting yourself apart in a competitive field.

Why Therapists Are Returning to Electrolysis More and more beauty professionals are realising what experienced electrologists have always known: A single modality simply doesn’t meet the needs of every client.

What’s driving the renewed interest?

• Client demand: More informed clients are seeking tailored, lasting results

• Hair diversity: Light, fine, or sparse hairs resist Laser/IPL but respond well to electrolysis

• Medical & hormonal cases: Conditions like PCOS, HRT, and menopause-related growth need more than surface solutions

• Skin tone considerations: Electrolysis is safe for all Fitzpatrick types

• Professional reputation: Offering permanent solutions elevates your clinical standing

• Industry shortage: Trained electrologists are in demand—and short supply

Training: What You Need to Know One of the biggest misconceptions in the industry is that you can “pick up” electrolysis in a day.

Electrolysis is not a one-day skill.

It requires in-depth knowledge, precision, and practice. This is a hands-on modality where technique matters—and client safety is paramount.

How to become a Professional Electrologist. Pre-Requisites HLTINF005 – Maintain Infection Prevention for Skin Penetration Treatments. This unit is essential for working safely within skinpenetration frameworks and complying with hygiene and regulatory standards.

The SHBBHRS013 - Provide Hair Reduction Treatments course is a Nationally Recognised unit from the current Diploma of Beauty Therapy. Upon completion, you will receive a Statement of Attainment, granting you national recognition as an Electrologist Practitioner.

As outlined by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), Electrologists must undergo comprehensive training from recognised Australian institutions. This ensures that practitioners possess the knowledge and skills needed to perform Electrolysis safely and effectively.

Self-Paced Online Theory Modules • Dive into the foundations of electrolysis • Study skin anatomy, hair growth cycles, and treatment science • Learn safety protocols and contraindications • Accessible anytime, so you can learn at your own pace

Face-to-Face Practical Training • Intensive inperson practical sessions with live models • Guided by a highly experienced electrologist trainer • Learn correct techniques, probe selection, and effective treatment planning •

Small groups ensure personal feedback and skill development

Self-Paced Practice Hours (Recorded & Reviewed) • Continue refining your skills in your own time • Record your practice treatments and submit them for professional feedback • Receive personalised tips to improve accuracy, consistency, and client safety • Build confidence before treating paying clients

Why Electrolysis Matters More Than Ever Therapists today want to deliver better, lasting outcomes for their clients—not just follow trends. Electrolysis empowers you to: • Work safely and inclusively across all hair and skin types • Treat hormonal growth, post-laser regrowth, and sensitive areas • Offer truly permanent hair removal It’s not a “step back”—it’s a step up in client care.

A Skill That Stands the Test of Time Technology will continue to evolve, but some treatments remain timeless because they work.

Adding electrolysis to your skill set doesn’t mean ditching modern devices—it means offering a complete service. You’ll have the skills and flexibility to meet your clients where they are— and achieve the results they deserve.

Whether you’re just starting out or are ready to deepen your clinical expertise, becoming a trained electrologist is a decision that will serve you, your clients, and your business for years to come.

Karen Geiszler is the founder of KG Beauty & Modality Training and a nationally recognised educator in advanced beauty modalities. With over 35 years of industry experience, Karen is passionate about empowering therapists with real skills that make a lasting difference for their clients. Ready to add Electrolysis to your skill set scan the QR CODE book a training discovery call today.

@klgbeautyandmodalitytraining