How to Become a Cosmetic Laser Technician

Author

Dr. Stephen Cosentino

Cosmetic laser technicians are in high demand right now as more and more patients discover the benefits of laser hair removal and other directed light therapies.

If you’d like to become an aesthetic laser operator, your first step is to obtain laser therapy certification from an accredited aesthetics training provider. Then you’ll need to decide which types of cosmetic laser services you’d like to provide and which cosmetic laser jobs are the best fit for your skills and interests.

Here’s what you should know before getting started.

Cosmetic Laser Technician Training — What to Expect

You don’t need a nursing degree or engineering degree to become a cosmetic laser technician. But you do need to enroll in a complete cosmetic laser training that blends hands-on training with detailed instruction in the laser technology you’ll be using to treat patients.

The didactic portion of this course should cover:

The physics of directed light therapy
The basic biological principles of laser light therapy
Contraindications for laser light therapy, including photosensitizing medications
The different laser and pulsed light devices you may encounter in practice
General principles of laser safety and the importance of attention to detail when using therapeutic lasers
Best practices for laser light therapy pricing and marketing
Considerations around leasing and purchasing new and used laser equipment
General practice management considerations, including customer service skills for providers and front-office staff

The hands-on portion of this course may cover common laser and pulsed light treatments, such as:

Hair removal
Tattoo removal
Scar revision
Vaginal rejuvenation
Cellulite reduction and laser lipo
Sub-ablative treatments
IR/radiofrequency skin tightening

The course may also provide prerequisite materials and instruction for attendees seeking one of the two recognized laser hair removal designations — Certified Laser Hair Removal Professional (CLHRP) or Certified Pulse Light Hair Removal Professional (CPLHRP).

Where to Find Aesthetic Laser Technician Jobs

Once your training is complete, you’re ready to begin looking for aesthetic laser technician jobs. They’re out there if you know where to find them.

Looking for Jobs

Start by setting job alerts on digital job boards like Indeed. Connect with aestheticians and aesthetic practice administrators on LinkedIn to keep tabs on who’s hiring. And reach out directly to cosmetic practices offering laser therapy in your area — and beyond, if you’re willing to move for the right opportunity.

Expanding Your Qualifications

To expand the range of positions you’re qualified to fill, enroll in an advanced medical aesthetics training program and obtain an aesthetician license. In all states but Connecticut, you’ll need this state-issued aesthetician credential to practice. Getting it is worth the effort, as general aestheticians can perform a much wider range of cosmetic services than certified laser technicians.

Becoming a Laser Safety Officer

To further expand your marketability as a laser technician, fulfill the requirements for Laser Safety Officer certification and pass one of the two exams administered by the Board of Laser Safety — the LSO or CMLO. This could qualify you for supervisory positions within the aesthetics field and even open up opportunities in non-aesthetic laser applications, should you ever decide to change careers.