Terms of UseHow to Become a Laser Hair Removal Technician Explore this Article parts 1 Finding a School Where You Can Train 2 Getting Certified to Become a Technician 3 Working as a Laser Hair Removal Technician Other Sections Expert Q&A Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Heather Richmond, MD
Last Updated: January 6, 2023 References
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This article was co-authored by Heather Richmond, MD. Dr. Heather Richmond, MD is a board certified Dermatologist at Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center in Houston, Texas. With over nine years of experience, Dr. Richmond specializes in comprehensive dermatology including medical, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. She graduated cum laude from Yale University with a BA in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. She earned her MD from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her Internal Medicine internship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and her Dermatology residency at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Dr. Richmond is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and is a member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, and the Texas and Houston Dermatological Societies. This article has been viewed 69,651 times.
Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure received by women and men alike, mostly because it is an affordable, less painful procedure than the traditional electrolysis. As laser hair removal becomes more popular, becoming a Laser Hair Removal Technician can be a challenging and rewarding new career.
Steps
Part 1 Part 1 of 3:
Finding a School Where You Can Train
1 Know your state requirements for Laser Hair Removal Technicians. There are no federal laws governing laser hair removal, so each state has their own regulations. Make sure that you know what those regulations are and find a school which will give you a certification recognized by the state where you intend to work.[1]XResearch source
Some states, beginning with Arizona, will require a certain number of training hours, around 40 hours of class time.
About 24 hours of hands on training could also be required.
In some states, like Georgia, you will need additional licenses, like cosmetology or aesthetician licenses.
Check for updates in requirements as legislative groups develop and meet in your state to set new regulations.
2 Find a school near you. Each state offers accredited schools for training as a Laser Hair Technician. Research the schools available in your area to find the best fit. Consider asking if they offer job placement assistance upon graduation for that extra push once you have finished your training. [2]XResearch source Advertisement
3 Save money for your training. Learning the skills to be a technician and getting your certification can be costly. Be sure that you have balanced your budget and have the savings, scholarships or grants to afford your education. While, in many states, it is not necessary to have a degree or certification, you will need training from a cosmetic laser technician training program to learn the process and proper use of the equipment involved.[3]XResearch source
Training at a laser college or institute costs somewhere in the range of $4250-$6000.
Beauty professionals who add laser removal to their skill set can spend between $1000-$6000 to attend seminars or training courses. To have become a professional, they will likely have spent around $13,000-$20,000 on an associates degree from a community college or trade school.
You may be eligible for financial aid up to $4000 from the National Laser Institute. Two-year associates degrees can cost around $13,000-$20,000.
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Part 2 Part 2 of 3:
Getting Certified to Become a Technician
1 Take classes to learn the basics of laser hair removal. You want to be comfortable in the classroom before you put your training into practice. Technicians need to be familiar with the process as well as safety precautions and machine maintenance.[4]XResearch source
You should be aware that laser hair removal is suitable for dark hair. It does not work for people with white, gray, or blonde hair.[5]X Expert Source Heather Richmond, MDBoard Certified DermatologistExpert Interview
Know the appropriate safety equipment and understand cooling systems.
Be familiar with wavelength settings on the Fitzpatrick scale.
Learn procedures for pre- and post- care.
Learn how to maintain the equipment you will be using.
2 Practice with hands on training. Be sure to practice in a clinic before applying for a job and working on clients. Work in this safe space until you are confident in your skills without an instructor on hand.[6]XResearch source
3 Go above and beyond the requirements to hone your skills. Even if your state does not have minimum requirements for training hours, continue learning and training until you are confident in your abilities. The better you are at the required skills, the more likely you will be hired and have returning clients.[7]XResearch source
Make sure that you know the proper techniques for laser hair removal.
Learn all of the necessary safety procedures.
Become familiar with medical-grade products that have research backing.[8]X Expert Source Heather Richmond, MDBoard Certified DermatologistExpert Interview
Know about trustworthy companies from where you can buy genuine skincare products.[9]X Expert Source Heather Richmond, MDBoard Certified DermatologistExpert Interview
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Part 3 Part 3 of 3:
Working as a Laser Hair Removal Technician
1 Create a resume. Once you have completed your training, create a resume listing your goals, training and relevant experience. You will also want to list your contact information, so employers can reach you if they are interested in setting up an interview.
Keep the font simple and professional.
Your resume should all fit on one page.
Use templates and resume building websites to help you format your resume.
Include past work experience as well as relevant volunteer work.
Proofread your resume for spelling errors and have a friend give you feedback.
2 Check job sites for open positions. Several online resources will list job openings in your area. Search on some of the larger job boards like Indeed, Monster, and Career Builder. You can also search for jobs in your particular region.
3 Visit salons in your area. Compile a list of the salons in your area which offer laser hair removal. Visit each salon to inquire if they are hiring. Be sure to have a copy of your resume on hand in case they are looking for employees, and offer to leave a resume with them for future reference if they are not currently hiring.
4 Build a client base. Some salons may already have a built in client base, but it is helpful to know how to increase your number of clients and build your own client base. The more clients you have, the more work you will have. The better work you do, the more likely you will be able to maintain your client base as well as expand it.[10]XResearch source
Create marketing materials like business cards and post cards. You can give these to potential clients, as well as offering them to your existing clients to share with their friends.
Network with local businesses and share in marketing by exchanging business cards and trading promotional material to be made available at each other’s businesses. Seek partners with similarities to your business, like hair or nail salons which do not offer laser hair removal.
Promote yourself on social media. Create a professional page to explain what you do. You can promote special offers as well as encourage clients to share their experience on your page.
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Expert Q&A
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Question Where should I buy skincare products? Heather Richmond, MD Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Heather Richmond, MD is a board certified Dermatologist at Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center in Houston, Texas. With over nine years of experience, Dr. Richmond specializes in comprehensive dermatology including medical, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. She graduated cum laude from Yale University with a BA in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. She earned her MD from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her Internal Medicine internship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and her Dermatology residency at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Dr. Richmond is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and is a member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, and the Texas and Houston Dermatological Societies. Heather Richmond, MD Board Certified Dermatologist Expert Answer Buy skincare products from reputable skincare companies with a good track record. It is better not to buy from random websites on the internet. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question Which skin care products do dermatologists use? Heather Richmond, MD Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Heather Richmond, MD is a board certified Dermatologist at Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center in Houston, Texas. With over nine years of experience, Dr. Richmond specializes in comprehensive dermatology including medical, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. She graduated cum laude from Yale University with a BA in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. She earned her MD from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her Internal Medicine internship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and her Dermatology residency at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Dr. Richmond is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and is a member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, and the Texas and Houston Dermatological Societies. Heather Richmond, MD Board Certified Dermatologist Expert Answer Usually, dermatologists use cosmeceuticals or medical-grade cosmetic products that have done a good amount of research into their specific products and ingredients to show clinical benefit. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question Do I need a New York state license to become a laser hair removal technician? Community Answer From the research I found online, it appears that New York State does not currently require a license to perform laser hair removal. This is likely to change as committees form to adjust regulations. It is also a good idea to receive as much training as possible to avoid injury and law suits. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 4
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Co-authored by: Heather Richmond, MD Board Certified Dermatologist This article was co-authored by Heather Richmond, MD. Dr. Heather Richmond, MD is a board certified Dermatologist at Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center in Houston, Texas. With over nine years of experience, Dr. Richmond specializes in comprehensive dermatology including medical, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. She graduated cum laude from Yale University with a BA in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. She earned her MD from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her Internal Medicine internship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and her Dermatology residency at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Dr. Richmond is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and is a member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, and the Texas and Houston Dermatological Societies. This article has been viewed 69,651 times. 2 votes - 50% Co-authors: 12Updated: January 6, 2023 Views: 69,651Article SummaryX
If you want to become a laser hair removal technician, look up the requirements in your state. Each state will require a certain number of hours of class training, hands-on training, or a combination of both. Find a state-accredited school in your area and study hard as you take the required courses. Practice the techniques you learn under your instructor until you feel confident enough to apply for a job working independently. Keep reading to learn more about what you’ll study in school, like cooling settings and client care.Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Sep 4, 2016
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Co-authored by: Heather Richmond, MD Board Certified Dermatologist This article was co-authored by Heather Richmond, MD. Dr. Heather Richmond, MD is a board certified Dermatologist at Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center in Houston, Texas. With over nine years of experience, Dr. Richmond specializes in comprehensive dermatology including medical, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. She graduated cum laude from Yale University with a BA in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. She earned her MD from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her Internal Medicine internship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and her Dermatology residency at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Dr. Richmond is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and is a member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, and the Texas and Houston Dermatological Societies. This article has been viewed 69,651 times. 2 votes - 50% Co-authors: 12 Updated: January 6, 2023 Views: 69,651 Article SummaryX
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. 
502 
1 Know your state requirements for Laser Hair Removal Technicians. There are no federal laws governing laser hair removal, so each state has their own regulations. Make sure that you know what those regulations are and find a school which will give you a certification recognized by the state where you intend to work.[1] 
2 Find a school near you. Each state offers accredited schools for training as a Laser Hair Technician. Research the schools available in your area to find the best fit. Consider asking if they offer job placement assistance upon graduation for that extra push once you have finished your training. [2] Advertisement 
3 Save money for your training. Learning the skills to be a technician and getting your certification can be costly. Be sure that you have balanced your budget and have the savings, scholarships or grants to afford your education. While, in many states, it is not necessary to have a degree or certification, you will need training from a cosmetic laser technician training program to learn the process and proper use of the equipment involved.[3] 
1 Take classes to learn the basics of laser hair removal. You want to be comfortable in the classroom before you put your training into practice. Technicians need to be familiar with the process as well as safety precautions and machine maintenance.[4] 
2 Practice with hands on training. Be sure to practice in a clinic before applying for a job and working on clients. Work in this safe space until you are confident in your skills without an instructor on hand.[6] 
3 Go above and beyond the requirements to hone your skills. Even if your state does not have minimum requirements for training hours, continue learning and training until you are confident in your abilities. The better you are at the required skills, the more likely you will be hired and have returning clients.[7] 
1 Create a resume. Once you have completed your training, create a resume listing your goals, training and relevant experience. You will also want to list your contact information, so employers can reach you if they are interested in setting up an interview. 
2 Check job sites for open positions. Several online resources will list job openings in your area. Search on some of the larger job boards like Indeed, Monster, and Career Builder. You can also search for jobs in your particular region. 
3 Visit salons in your area. Compile a list of the salons in your area which offer laser hair removal. Visit each salon to inquire if they are hiring. Be sure to have a copy of your resume on hand in case they are looking for employees, and offer to leave a resume with them for future reference if they are not currently hiring. 
4 Build a client base. Some salons may already have a built in client base, but it is helpful to know how to increase your number of clients and build your own client base. The more clients you have, the more work you will have. The better work you do, the more likely you will be able to maintain your client base as well as expand it.[10] 
Heather Richmond, MD Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Heather Richmond, MD is a board certified Dermatologist at Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center in Houston, Texas. With over nine years of experience, Dr. Richmond specializes in comprehensive dermatology including medical, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. She graduated cum laude from Yale University with a BA in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. She earned her MD from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her Internal Medicine internship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and her Dermatology residency at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Dr. Richmond is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and is a member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, and the Texas and Houston Dermatological Societies. 
Community Answer From the research I found online, it appears that New York State does not currently require a license to perform laser hair removal. This is likely to change as committees form to adjust regulations. It is also a good idea to receive as much training as possible to avoid injury and law suits. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 4 
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