Seeking your dream career? Get the essential details on becoming a laser technician.
Have you ever considered a career as a laser hair removal technician? This growing field allows you to leverage technology to help clients achieve smooth, hair-free skin.
But what exactly does it take to get started? What steps and expenses should you plan for? How long will training and certification take? If you’re curious about launching a rewarding career removing unwanted hair, read on.
We’ll take you through the entire process by answering all the essential questions related to training, continuing education, and costs, among others in the US and specific states.
What Do You Have to Do to Become a Laser Hair Removal Technician?
To become a laser hair removal technician, you must complete specialized training, pass exams for licensure, earn national certifications, gain hands-on experience, and pursue continuing education to stay current on practices.
Education
First, technicians typically need to earn a high school diploma or GED. Afterward, there are two main educational paths:
- Complete an esthetics or cosmetology program at a vocational school. These programs range from 500-2000 hours of instruction over 6 months to 1 year.
Coursework covers skin anatomy, hair removal methods like waxing and electrolysis, sterilization procedures, client safety protocols, and business practices. - Complete a shorter laser certification program focusing just on laser and light-based treatments. Programs range from 30-120 hours and are often approved by state boards.
Topics include laser physics, skin typing, and analysis, use of laser equipment, hands-on practice, and treatment techniques for all skin types.
Based on our experience, the more in-depth esthetics or cosmetology program provides a strong foundation for those new to skin care. However, a dedicated laser certification program may suffice for licensed or experienced professionals.
Earn National Certification
While national certification may not be mandatory in your state, obtaining credentials from a respected organization can showcase your expertise to employers and clients.
The American Electrology Association’s Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE) designation is the most widely recognized certification in the industry. You can qualify for the CPE by passing an exam held annually at the AEA national convention.
The Society for Clinical and Medical Hair Removal also provides sought-after certifications like Certified Clinical Electrologist, Certified Medical Electrologist, Certified Laser Hair Removal Professional, and Certified Pulse Light Hair Removal Professional.
Get Licensed in Your State as Required
Some states mandate that laser hair removal techs hold a specialized license in addition to certifications. You can earn this laser technician license by passing the National Electrology Theory and Practical Exams from the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology.
Taking exam prep courses and practicing with sample tests can help you succeed. Make sure to determine your state’s specific licensing rules and obtain all required credentials.
Continuing Education
Most states mandate technicians complete continuing education annually or biannually to renew their licenses. Requirements range from 4-16 hours covering emerging techniques, regulations, and safety practices. Staying current through ongoing learning is vital.
With the right education, training, and dedication, you can gain the expertise needed to practice laser hair removal. Each state has specific steps to follow to become licensed or certified.
Most states require regular continuing education for license renewal. Requirements vary by state:
- In Texas, continuing education was temporarily waived in 2020 for licenses expiring during the COVID-19 pandemic. Otherwise, technicians must complete 4-8 hours biannually.
- To renew a cosmetology license in Florida, licensees must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years. Courses in laser and light-based hair removal are approved for continuing education credits by the Florida Electrolysis Council.
- In California, continuing education of at least 8 hours is required every 3 years to renew the license.
No more cuts, nicks, or irritation if you partner with Ethos Spa. Find out why we’re the number one laser hair removal option in New Jersey. Contact us now!
How Long Does It Take to Be a Laser Hair Removal Technician?
The typical process of completing training, examinations, licensing, and gaining experience takes 6 to 12 months on average to become a certified laser hair removal technician. However, that timeframe does not factor in continuing education and mandatory license renewals over time.
State-by-State Timeframes
Duration can depend on factors like:
- Hours of mandated training
- Exam requirements
- Licensing for both technicians and facilities
- Whether a cosmetology license is also required
Here are some examples of variations in requirements that may affect timelines:
In California:
- No education hour requirements to become licensed
- Must be a registered nurse or physician’s assistant
- License must be renewed every three years
In Georgia:
- Obtain 3 laser training certificates
- 30+ hours of laser training must be completed
- Exams, criminal checks, and board approval required before certification
In Texas:
- 40 hours of approved laser training needed
The Typical Timeline
While timeframes vary, the typical steps and durations are:
- Training program: 3-6 months
- Exams and certifications: 1-2 months
- Gaining experience: 3-6 months
Based on our experience, while accelerated programs under 6 months are available, budgeting 6-12 months to become fully licensed and begin practicing is wise.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Laser Hair Removal Technician?
The total investment to become a certified laser hair removal technician ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. Notable costs include:
- Tuition for a dedicated training program averages $3,000-$6,000 for a certificate taking 3-6 months. Some accelerated options are under $3,000.
- Many states require completing a broader esthetics or cosmetology program first, ranging from $2,000-$5,000 for 6-12 months of study.
- State exam and licensing fees are typically $100-$500.
- Equipment like textbooks, uniforms, and supplies add a few hundred dollars more.
- Liability insurance costs around $1,000 per year.
- Ongoing education at $500-$2,000 annually is needed to maintain certification.
- Additional expenses like housing may be required if attending an out-of-town program.
Loans, grants, or tuition assistance from employers can offset costs. But overall, budgeting $5,000-$15,000 enables you to cover all mandatory program, exam, and licensing expenses.
Stuck in an endless shave, wax, repeat cycle? Nothing’s stopping you from breaking free! You just need to pair with a better hair removal partner. We offer nothing less than that at Ethos Spa! Book a session today!
