California Cosmetology Written ExamHair RemovalHard
A cosmetology license holder in California wants to offer permanent hair removal using an electric current to destroy the hair follicle. Under California law, what must this practitioner do?
- AComplete a 10-hour continuing education course approved by the BBC
- BObtain written client consent forms only, then proceed with the service
- CNothing additional; a cosmetology license authorizes electrolysis services
- DObtain a separate electrologist license, since electrolysis is not within the scope of a cosmetology license
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Obtain a separate electrologist license, since electrolysis is not within the scope of a cosmetology license
Electrolysis is a licensed practice separate from cosmetology in California and requires a distinct electrologist license issued by the state; cosmetology licenses do not authorize this permanent hair removal method.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. No continuing education course substitutes for the required separate license.
- B. Consent forms alone do not satisfy the legal licensing requirement for electrolysis.
- C. A cosmetology license does not cover electrolysis, which is a separate licensed profession.
Electrolysis Scope of Practice (CA)
In California, electrolysis (a permanent hair removal method using electric current) requires a separate electrologist license and is outside the scope of a cosmetology license.
- Electrolysis is the only FDA-recognized permanent hair removal method
- Requires a separate California electrologist license
- Cosmetology and barbering licenses do not cover electrolysis or laser hair removal
- Practicing outside scope of license violates the Barbering and Cosmetology Act
Memory trick: Electrolysis needs its own 'electric ticket' license