Working in a Niche Sector

Thirty years ago, Beauty Therapy training included Electrolysis as part of a two-year full-time course. Electrolysis was a popular procedure and featured on every salon treatment menu.

When lasers/IPL entered the industry, colleges changed their curriculums to make electrolysis optional. Manufacturers criticised electrolysis, labelling it outdated and challenging to learn, while lasers were quicker, easier, and more lucrative. As a result, electrolysis is now mainly taught at private training schools.

Electrolysist numbers dwindled over time. However, people gradually realised that most light-based hair removal could not treat red, blonde, grey or white hairs, was unsuitable for darker-toned skins and could cause paradoxical hypertrichosis in hormonally sensitive individuals.

Although different types of lasers can now treat hair more successfully, electrolysis is still the only method legally called permanent hair removal; other methods are classed as permanent hair reduction. The two treatments can work well together in certain circumstances, using light-based energy to reduce strength and numbers and then eradicating the remaining growth with electrolysis. The savvy business owner offers both methods under the same roof to maximise profits and retain clients.

Demand for electrolysis has surged dramatically. Unfortunately, there are no longer enough qualified practitioners to cope. Most of us have permanently full diaries, with waiting lists stretching for months.

From a business point of view, there has never been a better time to be an electrolysist. I earn enough to make a living and continue my education. I now hold the highest level possible in my profession in both hair and blemish removal and can charge accordingly due to my expertise and experience. I am a sole trader renting an office in a beautiful old building, and I choose my working hours and how I run my practice.

Being part of a niche sector means we have no rivalry, just respect, collaboration and support. Thanks to online interaction, various training courses and nationwide events, I count many UK and US practitioners as colleagues and friends. We offer advice, help and friendship unparalleled in other parts of the aesthetics industry. We also have a respected and established professional body, the BIAE, that provides additional support and training. Insurance is affordable compared to other sectors, and Advanced Electrolysis blemish removal can interact with different skin treatments and programmes.

However, electrolysis should never be just about the money. Unwanted hair growth and unsightly topical blemishes affect people’s lives: being able to help them and seeing their confidence grow is a massive part of why I do my job. I am also an NHS hair removal provider for transgender patients preparing for surgery. This is a hugely rewarding career on every level.

Author: Sharon Birchall MBIAE Jan 2025