Electricity & Safety

Understanding electrical principles and safety is essential for cosmetologists who use electrical equipment for facials, scalp treatments, and other services. This knowledge also appears on the NIC exam.

Types of Electrical Current

Direct Current (DC)

Direct current flows continuously in one direction.

Characteristics:

• Constant, steady flow
• Has a positive (+) and negative (-) pole
• Produced by batteries and DC power supplies
• Used in galvanic treatments

Salon Uses:

• Galvanic facial treatments
• Iontophoresis
• Desincrustation

Alternating Current (AC)

Alternating current rapidly changes direction at regular intervals.

Characteristics:

• Flow reverses direction (60 times per second in US)
• Standard household electricity
• Powers most salon equipment
• Can be modified for treatments

Salon Uses:

• Most electrical equipment
• High-frequency machines
• Steamers, dryers, heating tools

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Electrical Modalities in Cosmetology

Galvanic Current

Galvanic current is direct current (DC) that produces chemical effects when passed through the body.

Two Main Uses:

How It Works:

• Uses positive (anode) and negative (cathode) electrodes
• Creates chemical reaction in tissues
• Client holds one electrode; esthetician uses other on skin
• Requires conductive gel or solution

High-Frequency (Tesla Current)

High-frequency current is rapidly oscillating alternating current that produces heat and germicidal effects.

Characteristics:

• Thermal (heat-producing)
• Germicidal (antibacterial)
• Stimulating to skin

Electrode Types:

Benefits:

• Kills bacteria on skin surface
• Increases blood circulation
• Helps heal acne lesions
• Stimulates glands and metabolism

Microcurrent

Microcurrent uses extremely low levels of electrical current similar to the body's natural current.

Benefits:

• Muscle re-education and toning
• Increased ATP (cellular energy) production
• Improved product penetration
• Anti-aging effects

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Electrical Equipment Safety

Basic Safety Guidelines

GFCI Protection

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are safety devices that protect against electrical shock.

How GFCIs Work:

• Monitor current flow between hot and neutral wires
• Detect imbalance (current leaking to ground)
• Trip and shut off power in 1/40th of a second
• Prevent electrocution

Where Required:

• Near sinks and water sources
• Wet salon areas
• Anywhere water and electricity may mix

Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers protect against:

• Electrical overload
• Short circuits
• Fire hazards

Action: Automatically shut off power when current exceeds safe levels

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Safety Precautions

Before Using Electrical Equipment

1. Check all equipment for damage or wear
2. Read manufacturer's instructions
3. Test equipment on yourself first
4. Explain procedure to client
5. Check for contraindications

During Treatment

1. Never leave client unattended
2. Keep hands dry when operating equipment
3. Don't touch metal while using electrical devices
4. Monitor client comfort throughout
5. Follow proper timing guidelines

Contraindications for Electrical Treatments

DO NOT use electrical treatments on clients with:

Signs to Stop Treatment Immediately

• Burning or stinging sensation
• Excessive redness
• Client discomfort
• Equipment malfunction
• Any adverse reaction

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Electrical Terms for the Exam

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Equipment Maintenance

Daily Practices

• Wipe down equipment after each use
• Check cords for damage
• Ensure proper storage
• Clean electrodes and attachments

Regular Maintenance

• Follow manufacturer's service schedule
• Replace worn cords immediately
• Keep equipment clean and dry
• Document maintenance performed

When Equipment Malfunctions

1. Stop use immediately
2. Unplug from power source
3. Remove from service area
4. Tag as out of order
5. Have professionally repaired
6. Never attempt DIY repairs