Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenna Balthazar.
Hi Jenna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
After graduating from high school, I felt a bit overwhelmed. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with my life or what path to take. My mom, a hardworking single parent and self-employed electrologist with a thriving business of over 12 years, encouraged me to consider joining her in the field. At first, I couldn’t really picture myself doing this type of work. But the way she presented the idea stuck with me.
What really drew me in was the thought of working for myself while also helping other women feel more confident by addressing something as personal as unwanted hair growth. That combination of independence and purpose really resonated with me.
I enrolled at the Orlando Institute of Electrolysis, earned my license, and soon after, I opened my own electrolysis practice. I was just 19 at the time, and to be honest, I was surprised by how much I loved the process of building something on my own. It gave me a strong sense of independence and pride.
Over the years, I’ve had the chance to meet so many wonderful people through this work. It’s given me a deep appreciation for human connection. I’ve learned that people really do need people—especially when someone is facing a vulnerability like facial hair. Helping women feel more confident in their own skin is something I take to heart.
More recently, I’ve had the joy of working alongside my mom in a shared office space. After years of having our own separate locations in different cities, it’s been incredibly special to now work together under one roof. We’ve been in our beautiful, expanded space in Ocala for the past four years, and it’s been a fulfilling and successful chapter for both of us.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As you can imagine, starting a new business comes with its fair share of challenges. It was definitely not a smooth road in the beginning. Like many small business owners, I faced the high costs of getting things up and running, plus a lot of idle time just waiting for the phone to ring. One of the hardest parts was bringing in new clients and building trust in a service that many people weren’t familiar with.
I quickly learned—sometimes the hard way—that in this business, word of mouth is everything. I spent quite a bit of money on advertising, and while it helped a little, nothing compared to the impact of a happy client sharing their positive experience with friends or family. That kind of personal recommendation has been the most valuable marketing tool by far.
Another major challenge came when laser hair removal started gaining popularity. For a while, it felt like electrolysis took a backseat in the hair removal world. Even though electrolysis is the only FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal, that didn’t stop people from purchasing laser packages left and right. It was frustrating to watch, especially knowing that many clients would eventually return after not getting the results they hoped for with laser treatments.
But over time, as more people became educated about the differences, and as I continued building strong relationships with my clients, my business began to grow steadily. With each passing year, it’s developed into not just a profitable practice, but a busy, rewarding, and genuinely fun place to work.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I specialize in permanent hair removal and primarily use the thermolysis modality, also known as radio frequency energy. It’s a technique that feels like a bit of a lost art these days, especially with the rise of laser hair removal. While both methods are used for reducing or the removal of hair, they are very different. Electrolysis is still the only FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal.
One of the most important things I educate my clients on is the hair growth cycle. Hair grows in different stages and cycles. Each hair cycle must be treated in order to see permanent, lasting results. As treatment continues, clients will notice the hair becoming finer and less overall. With consistency—whether that’s weekly or monthly sessions—hair growth will gradually slow down. This can take up to two years before seeing permanency. Eventually, most clients only need maintenance appointments and can come in as needed. It’s truly a beautiful process to witness, and the transformation isn’t just physical. For many, the change is deeply emotional and confidence-building—regardless of gender.
Over the years, I’ve had the honor of working with a number of transgender clients. For many of them, this is both a challenging and exciting time in their lives. Electrolysis, particularly on facial areas, often requires a lot of work and time. I especially enjoy beard or facial hair removal because it’s both rewarding and technically challenging. But even more than that, it gives us time to connect. I truly enjoy hearing my clients’ stories and getting to know them on a personal level.
I feel incredibly blessed to have met such a wide range of people through this work. Building trust and relationships is at the heart of what I do, and I never take that responsibility lightly. My hope is that every client who walks through my door feels safe, comfortable, and genuinely cared for. Anything discussed during treatment remains completely confidential—what’s shared in my office stays within these walls.
I’ve spent the last 30 years in this field, and I still feel deeply grateful every day to be doing this work. Helping people reach their goals and feel more confident in their own skin is something I never take for granted.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I’ve noticed that many clients who have undergone laser hair removal are mostly grateful for the results they’ve achieved, and I’m glad it’s been helpful for them. However, it’s also quite common for those same clients to turn to electrolysis to complete their journey—especially when it comes to treating stubborn white or gray hairs, very light or blonde hair, and fine peach fuzz. These types of hairs don’t respond well to laser treatments, which is where electrolysis becomes essential.
This is an industry where collaboration really matters. I’m thankful to be part of a professional community where working together with dermatologists, laser technicians, and other skincare professionals enhances the overall care and results for clients. When we combine our strengths and expertise, the client ultimately benefits—and that’s what it’s all about.
Pricing:
- 15 minute treatment is $40
- 30 minute treatment $55
- 60 minute treatment $100
Contact Info:
