Ready to Rejuvenate? The Essential Guide to Cosmetic Laser Treatments

Author

Dr. Stephen Cosentino

Do you love helping people feel better about themselves when they look in the mirror? Do you consider yourself a “people person”? Are you comfortable utilizing the latest technology in your work?

If you answered “yes” to all three of these questions, maybe you should become a cosmetic laser technician.

Certified laser technicians, as they’re also known, are among the most in-demand professionals in the field of medical aesthetics. Working as a laser technician is an excellent way to break into the fast-growing, ever-changing aesthetics industry — and possibly to move up the ranks into higher-paying, more prestigious roles.

What Do Cosmetic Laser Technicians Do?

Cosmetic laser technicians’ work varies depending on their specialty, where they work, and their patient population. But in general, cosmetic laser technicians operate cosmetic laser machines under the supervision of a trained medical practitioner. They perform laser treatments including:

Tattoo removal
Skin tightening
Laser hair removal
Scar removal
Fat removal

Skilled technicians may utilize multiple types of laser technology. The main types of laser machines are:

Diode laser machines, which use special diodes to stimulate collagen production, reduce the appearance of spider veins and other types of unsightly blood vessels, and remove unwanted hair.
YAG laser machines, which are mostly used in tattoo removal.
Laser lipolysis machines, which use special lasers to dissolve fat subcutaneously.

How Do You Become a Cosmetic Laser Technician?

Becoming a cosmetic laser technician is mostly a matter of training. Cosmetic laser training, to be precise.

These training programs emphasize hands-on work in a mix of simulated and real-world practice settings. But before you start working with actual patients, you’ll learn the ins and outs of laser technology and complete a comprehensive safety certification.

Prerequisites for cosmetic laser training are usually minimal — no nursing degree required. After you get certified, you may wish to pursue Laser Safety Officer certification to increase your employability and earning power in the future.

Why Should You Become a Cosmetic Laser Technician?

These are just some of the benefits of working as a cosmetic laser technician. As if you needed more convincing.

Quick education and training. You can complete your cosmetic laser certification in a matter of days. You may still need to complete a period of on-the-job training once hired, however.

Competitive pay. Cosmetic laser technicians qualify as skin care specialists, who earn about $40,000 per year on average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Because they’re more specialized, cosmetic laser technicians often earn more than the average for this cohort, particularly in high cost-of-living areas where their skills are in high demand. Seasoned laser technicians can earn upwards of $50,000 per year.

Advance at your own pace. Whether you work at a dermatology clinic, a medical spa, or some other practice setting, there’s plenty of opportunity to advance at your own pace.

Work with people all day. This is not solitary work. As a cosmetic laser technician, you’ll be in close contact with patients and colleagues. That’s a big perk of the job if you’re a social type.