Find a Certified Electrologist

When choosing an electrologist, professional training and certification matter. Look for practitioners who hold recognized credentials such as:

• C.P.E. — Certified Professional Electrologist
• C.C.E. — Certified Canadian Electrologist

These designations indicate that the electrologist has successfully completed comprehensive examinations and meets ongoing education requirements to maintain professional standards.  The certification designation/title C.P.E. and C.C.E is the property of the FCEA in Canada.  

When considering electrolysis as your hair removal method, it is important to begin with a consultation. A consultation allows you to ask questions, learn about the treatment process, understand the expected length and frequency of sessions, and gain a clear understanding of what to expect both during and after treatment.

Choosing a Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE) for your hair removal needs offers added confidence and peace of mind. The CPE designation indicates that the electrologist has successfully passed a nationally recognized competency examination and is committed to maintaining high professional standards through ongoing continuing education.

In Canada, regulation of electrolysis varies by province, and professional requirements may differ depending on location. For this reason, it is important to ask about an electrologist’s training, certification, and professional credentials. A CPE designation demonstrates that the electrologist has met recognized standards of knowledge, safety, and technical skill that go beyond basic training.

Holding the CPE credential reflects a strong commitment to professionalism and lifelong learning, ensuring their knowledge and practices remain current while upholding best practices .

CPEs participate in ongoing education through approved courses, conferences, and professional seminars. These educational opportunities cover essential topics such as sterilization and sanitation, skin and hair science, proper record keeping and evolving professional standards, helping to ensure safe, effective, and high-quality care for clients.

While detailed cost and treatment timelines are usually better discussed in person after the electrolysis has had the opportunity to do an assessment,  a qualified electrologist should be able to answer basic questions such as:

• What type of electrolysis do you offer?
• How long have you been in practice?
• What training and certifications do you hold?
• Are you a member of a professional electrolysis association? 

Many people feel uncomfortable talking about unwanted hair, so it often stays private, even though it’s far more common than most realize. You may be surprised by how many people have had electrolysis or have considered it. In fact, chances are you already know someone who has, but they simply haven’t mentioned it.

If you feel comfortable, asking a trusted friend or family member can be a helpful starting point. Personal recommendations can offer reassurance, honest insight, and guidance when choosing an electrologist. 

Pay attention not only to the answers, but also to how comfortable and confident you feel during the conversation.

Advertising and online searches can be a helpful way to find electrologists in your area, but it’s important to choose carefully. Many salons and businesses advertise “electrolysis” or “permanent hair removal,” but may actually provide temporary hair removal methods or hair reduction, like laser or IPL or electric tweezers instead.

True electrolysis always involves:

• A fine disposable/sterile filament inserted into the hair follicle 
• Treatment of individual hairs 
• Techniques known as galvanic, thermolysis, or blend

Asking what form of electrolysis is used can help ensure you are choosing a properly trained professional.  For added confidence, look for an electrologist who holds the Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE) designation, as this credential confirms they have met recognized professional standards and are trained in true needle electrolysis.

Choosing an electrologist is a personal decision, and it’s important that you feel comfortable and confident in your provider. You should feel welcome to ask questions and expect clear, professional answers. If you don’t feel the right fit, it is completely appropriate to consider another practitioner.

In some cases, meeting with more than one provider for a consultation can help you compare approaches and choose the option that best meets your needs.