Laser hair removal is a highly popular cosmetic treatment offered by estheticians at offices, spas and beauty salons. There are various governing bodies which oversee ownership, training and facility requirements of laser hair removal technicians.
Many states mandate laser hair removal technicians obtain a state license by passing both theory and practical NIC National Electrology exams.
Education and Training
Although state licensing requirements can vary significantly, most require those providing laser hair removal services to have either a high school diploma or GED certificate as well as successfully complete an approved training program, commonly referred to as a certification course. Certification courses typically last from two to four weeks and include both classroom study and hands-on instruction at facilities that contain equipment capable of conducting laser hair removal procedures. Laser hair removal training aims to equip students with the ability to assess and treat patients, perform procedures safely, and follow-up on treatments. Most laser hair removal courses are offered through advanced education programs for estheticians or cosmetologists; however, some nurses and physicians also opt to complete such programs.
Once trained, laser hair removal technicians can expect to earn between $20 and $40 per session once in the field. Experience gained through training programs or working at spas/salon should increase this figure further. An ideal laser hair removal technician should possess exceptional verbal communication skills as they will need to explain procedures to clients while answering their queries and making recommendations.
As laser hair removal is considered medical treatment, many states have passed laws specifying the number of hours state-approved training a laser hair removal technician must undergo in order to qualify as a technician. Arizona mandates 40 hours of state-approved training and 100 cosmetic laser procedures as minimum requirements; in Texas where their laser hair removal statute resides, estheticians and master cosmetologists are required to complete 40 hours of state approved training before passing an exam and receiving their license to practice laser hair removal.
No matter the requirements in your state, attending a reputable laser hair removal school is strongly advised as top schools provide comprehensive coursework that teaches how to perform treatments safely while also maintaining and calibrating equipment. Furthermore, many schools offer internship programs which give hands-on experience while giving practical skills training; furthermore instructors from experienced schools will share their knowledge with you and share in sharing expertise in this field.
State Licensing
Laser hair removal is one of the most frequently performed non-invasive aesthetic procedures in the US and as such is subject to regulation by state cosmetology and medical boards. Estheticians must possess a license in order to practice laser hair removal; otherwise it is mandatory to complete an approved laser hair removal certification program; some cosmetology schools offer comprehensive esthetician or master cosmetologist programs that incorporate laser hair removal as part of their curriculum.
Most states mandate a minimum number of classroom hours and clinical practice experience in order to earn an esthetician license, while some even administer a national cosmetology exam known as the National Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC). For laser hair removal specialists interested in pursuing laser as a career option, additional certification exams such as Society for Clinical and Medical Hair Removal’s Certified Laser Hair Removal Professional (CLHRP) certificate require 40 classroom hours of instruction prior to taking this exam.
Other states consider laser hair removal part of “medical procedures,” and therefore only permit doctors or medical personnel such as nurses and physician’s assistants, such as nurses or physician’s assistants, to administer treatments in medical offices, hospitals or med spas. Even so, estheticians or beauty professionals trained by an accredited laser training center may still operate the equipment within such environments.
New York’s powerful physicians’ lobby has long opposed efforts to create licensing requirements for nonmedical salons that use lasers; but in 2019, this opposition started to change as the state medical society gradually lifted their opposition against nonmedical salons providing cosmetic laser services.
Where LHR treatments are considered medical procedures, a consulting physician must be present during all operating hours at the facility to oversee and audit procedures and protocols. However, in certain states such as Georgia, Texas and Massachusetts the law allows non-physicians to perform LHR without physician oversight provided that they undergo training from an accredited laser training program and adhere to established protocols.
Insurance
Laser hair removal is an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure, yet also poses medical risks that could result in complications. Therefore, practitioners who offer this service must carry malpractice insurance to protect both themselves and their clients from potential legal fees, judgements or settlements should they be found negligent. When choosing an insurer that specializes in beauty industry coverage it’s vital that they work with someone you can trust who knows the industry intimately.
Some states have strict laws when it comes to procedures that tread the fine line between beauty and medicine, such as laser hair removal. California, for instance, only physicians, physician assistants, or registered nurses are able to perform laser hair removal services – hence why laser treatment centers in this state are known as medical spas and usually located within doctors offices or plastic surgery facilities.
To successfully open a laser hair removal center, it is a wise strategy to secure commercial space in a high-visibility location. Preferably it should be located near an upscale shopping center or boutiques that already appeal to your target clientele, such as 21 to 45 year-old professionals who already attend such venues.
Consider also seeking national electrology certification; this can set you apart from competitors while giving clients peace of mind. One popular credential available through the American Electrology Association is called Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE).
Finally, it is wise to consider purchasing excess liability insurance for your salon. This type of coverage pays any claims that surpass your general liability policy’s coverage limit; an absolute must for laser hair removal specialists working in states with strict licensing requirements.
Though not mandatory for practitioners to acquire a state license, it’s wise to fulfill all minimum requirements in your region. Also reach out to your state department of health services and local city government to obtain additional rules and regulations, like Texas’ requirement that practitioners keep an on-call physician available at all times for emergency consultations.
Experience
Many states mandate laser hair removal technicians become certified through an accredited organization, such as the Society of Clinical and Medical Hair Removal. Certification typically involves training in safety protocols associated with using laser systems as well as examination and case studies. If one wishes to establish their own salon, a business plan should also be drawn up that addresses competing with existing clinics, financing sources and anticipated staff needs as well as anticipated competition levels from competing clinics and financing requirements for an expected staff requirement list. In certain states only certain types of professionals can own and operate laser hair removal businesses – another important consideration.
California is notorious for having some of the strictest laws regarding procedures that exist between beauty and medicine, such as laser hair removal treatments. According to California’s Medical Board, only physicians, physician assistants, and registered nurses can perform this service, giving rise to an immense “medspa” industry offering hair removal services provided by trained medical professionals under supervision from doctors.
Even in states that do not directly license laser hair removal technicians, it is still beneficial to obtain national credentials that demonstrate your commitment and add value to your resume. The American Electrology Association offers the Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE) credential which requires completion of a program, passing an exam and meeting continuing education requirements.
Consumers seeking laser treatments have become more savvy at finding reliable providers that prioritize client safety while offering them a range of treatment options tailored specifically to them. When looking for providers in your state that prioritize client safety and offer treatments that best meet their needs, search for those licensed by and accredited by your cosmetology board; those that employ highly skilled practitioners as well as state-of-the-art equipment with strict safety protocols.
Select a provider who provides free consultation to determine if laser treatments are right for you. At this visit, the practitioner should give an overview of the procedure as well as answer any queries about it that arise.
