Becoming a laser technician is a great way to start a new career. In this article, we’ll discuss what you need to do in order to become a laser technician and how to get started.
The first step to becoming a laser technician is to get some education. You can earn an associate’s degree or certificate at community colleges and technical schools around the country. These programs usually take two years or less and cost about $10,000.
In addition to getting some schooling, you should also gain some experience working with lasers. This means doing internships in hospitals, offices, or other businesses that use lasers on a regular basis. You might also look into volunteering with local organizations that offer laser treatments or other services related to medical technology. These opportunities will give you valuable hands-on experience that will help prepare you for your career as a laser technician!
How To Become Laser Technician
Laser technicians are certified skin and health care professionals who work in both cosmetological and clinical settings. These professionals apply laser technology to assist patients in procedures ranging from hair removal to reconstructive procedures. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a laser technician, there are several steps to take before you can enter your career. In this article, we discuss what a laser technician is, what they do, how to become a laser technician and what it’s like working as a laser technician to help you decide if it’s the right career for you.
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What is a laser technician?
A laser technician is a professional who works in the healthcare industry and performs specialized cosmetic procedures that use laser technology. Laser technicians support dermatologists in performing procedures like hair, tattoo and cellulite removal. They also perform skin care procedures to promote rejuvenation and help support elastin and collagen in the skin. Laser technicians often hold special certifications to practice in their professions and may work with dermatologists, estheticians and cosmetic surgeons.
Related: Learn About Being an Esthetician
What do laser technicians do?
Certified laser technicians use specialized laser equipment to perform a variety of cosmetic and dermatological procedures. They may work under the supervision of a licensed esthetician, dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to evaluate patient conditions and develop a treatment plan that fits the patient’s needs. Some laser technicians may often specialize in a single area of the profession, such as cosmetic applications. Depending on their specialties, laser technicians may take on a range of job tasks, including:
- Perform procedures based on supervising esthetician or dermatologist patient treatment plan
- Greet clients entering the facility and prepare them prior to procedures
- Prepare and operate laser technology equipment to perform skin care procedures
- Communicate with clients to evaluate skin conditions, overall health and cosmetic needs
- Document patient treatment procedures and medical history to ensure accurate records
- Comply with safety regulations set by the American National Standards Institute on laser technology and application
Related: Esthetician vs. Cosmetologist: A Comprehensive Guide
How to become a certified laser technician
The following steps outline how you can become a certified laser technician and advance your career:
1. Research state and program requirements
Some states have certain requirements that prospective technicians must fulfill in order to enroll in an accredited training program. For instance, some states require students obtain certifications after attending specific vocational schools or training institutions to be eligible for certification as a laser technician. Likewise, some certification programs have strict enrollment eligibility criteria that require students to be registered nurses, estheticians or dermatologists. While not all training programs for laser technician certification require such strict standards, it’s important to research options available to you.
2. Complete an accredited training program
Once you enroll in your technical training program, you can develop your knowledge and skills through hands-on applications and extensive study of the field. Technicians in training cover a range of topics, depending on their specialties. However, many training programs cover several basic topics of laser technology, including how to operate and maintain laser equipment, how to apply pre- and post-care methods and how to ensure safe use of equipment and application to the patient. Most programs also apply hands-on instructional approaches, where students apply their classroom skills in clinical environments to develop their experience in their career field.
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3. Gain clinical experience
Most accredited training programs provide clinical training opportunities that can help you meet the certification requirements. However, it’s still important to gain professional experience in your career field to demonstrate your skills and motivation to develop. Consider an internship or job shadow where you can observe the practice, apply your skills and learn more about the job to build your experience and meet your examination requirements.
4. Obtain your certification
After completing your laser technology training, you can earn your certification through the National Council on Laser Certification. The NCLC requires prospective technicians to meet clinical experience requirements and take a certification exam to apply for their licenses. Depending on the program you enroll in, you may be able to complete your NCLC certification exam during your education. Once you take your exam, you’re eligible for certification.
5. Advance your career
As you spend time in your career as a laser technician, consider opportunities for advancement. For instance, some technicians may pursue additional education to become estheticians or dermatologists. Laser technicians who choose to specialize in esthetics may often pursue additional training in the application of laser technology for treatments or operations that promote skin appearance and health. You may also pursue additional laser technician certification in a specific domain of the field, like hair or tattoo removal.
Related: How To Become a Dermatologist
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FAQ about working as a laser technician
Consider the frequently asked questions below for additional insight into working as a laser technician:
What’s the job outlook for laser technicians?
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, laser technicians in skin care may expect a 17% increase in occupational growth over the next decade. The projected job availability for laser technicians may continue to grow because of the increase in available technological methods that laser technicians can apply to treat skin conditions and perform cosmetic procedures. With the positive outlook, a career in laser technology can provide long-term growth and stability.
How much do laser technicians make?
According to Indeed’s salary data, laser technicians earn an average salary of $54,579 per year. While this salary figure represents the average for all technicians who work with laser technology, your income potential can vary based on several factors. One factor that can affect your earning potential is your professional specialty.
For instance, some laser technicians may earn higher incomes working with aestheticians than technicians who specialize in hair removal. Your experience level can also influence how much you make as a laser technician. Additionally, some employers in larger metropolitan areas may offer higher salaries than clinics and private facilities in more rural areas.
Related: How Much Do Dermatologists Make?
What skills do laser technicians need to be successful?
Certified laser technicians rely on a mix of hard and soft skills to perform effectively in their professions. Aside from the technical skills and dermatological knowledge that the profession requires, laser technicians must also have strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients every day. Excellent attention to detail is another quality that technicians must often rely on to operate laser equipment, treat patients and uphold safety and sanitation policies.
What’s the work environment like for laser technicians?
Most laser technicians work in a spa or cosmetological setting, where they work with estheticians and cosmetologists and care for clients visiting their facilities. In these environments, technicians may work a traditional schedule during business hours, with some part-time hours on weekends or holidays to accommodate client needs. Technicians who work in dermatology clinics and with licensed aestheticians may often work with patients who require laser procedures for medical conditions and reconstructive treatments.
