Question
Hi I have gotten a few electrolysis treatments, and I am concerned about the risks of blood borne diseases from it. Also, is it under the guidelines for the electrologist to wear gloves? My electrologist does not wear gloves during the procedure although I have see her wash her hands prior to the procedure.
-very concerned

Answer
Hi I have gotten a few electrolysis treatments, and I am concerned about the risks of blood borne diseases from it. Also, is it under the guidelines for the electrologist to wear gloves? My electrologist does not wear gloves during the procedure although I have see her wash her hands prior to the procedure.
-very concerned

Answer
Proper handwashing followed by donning gloves are expected today. In years past, gloves were not worn, but the expectation was that the practitioner would wash her hands before a treatment. Proper hand washing is better than nothing, but adding gloves is even better.
I personally wash and wear gloves for my protection as well as for the protection of my clients. I touch nothing out of the treatment area once the gloves go on.
There has never been a documentated case of any disease being spread by performing the electrolysis proceedure. However, the standard of care and practice today are aimed at preventing the spread of any disease. The biggest thing to watch for as a consumer is to actually observe your practitioner open a sterile, pre-sterilized probe each time you have a treatment. For peace of mind, probes should never be re-used. NEVER!
All will be better than okay if you see your electrologist take these special actions.
You could ask your electrologist to wear gloves. If she resists, you could look for another electrologist. Hopefully, she is not the only qualified person in your area. If you live in a licensed state, you could call the state licensing board and report this. You have every right to expect a high standard of cleanliness. I don't blame you for being very concerned.
D