Becoming an Aesthetic Laser Technician: Training, Skills, and Career Outlook

You’ve always had a passion for skincare. You look forward to your beauty regimen, reading up on products, ingredients, and formulations, and most of all, helping others with their skin.

Nothing is more thrilling to you than when beauty meets tech. You want a career that blends science, technology, and art skills, and offers continuous learning opportunities as well. 

So, how do you start?

In this article, we’ll divulge how to become an aesthetic laser technician and the steps you’ll need to take to begin a rewarding career in the modern-day beauty industry.

Table of Contents

• How To Become an Aesthetic Laser Technician in 6 Steps
• FAQs About How To Become a Certified Aesthetic Laser Technician
• Become a Certified Aesthetic Laser Technician With Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics

To become an aesthetic laser technician, you’ll need to choose a reputable school after researching your career options, complete a training program, get certified, gain practical experience, and stay updated with advancements.

Step 1: Research Career Options

Researching your career options as an aesthetic laser technician should be your first step along your journey. You’ll want to know that this is the career path you’re really looking for before making the time and money investment of becoming certified.

It’s an exciting time for the aesthetic laser industry.

Fueled by technological advancements and increased consumer demand for non-surgical procedures, the laser treatment sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.9% from 2023 to 2030.

With this anticipated job market growth, where would you work and what job duties would you have?

With certifications, technicians can find opportunities in:

• Medspas and Aesthetic Clinics: Providing laser hair removal, tattoo removal, skin tightening, and resurfacing services
• Dermatology Offices: Concentrating on skin-related treatments like laser therapy for acne scars, pigmentation, and vascular lesions
• Plastic Surgery Centers: Accompanying surgical procedures with skin resurfacing, scar removal, and rejuvenation treatments
• Entrepreneurship: Experienced technicians starting their own practices, offering laser-based services to clients

With the industry growing at such a rapid rate, career opportunities are increasing not just in traditional aesthetic settings but also in wellness centers, luxury spas, and even within fitness facilities. The diverse range of potential employers makes this field a popular option for those seeking flexibility and job security.

Your potential in the skincare industry is endless. Whether you want to work in medical esthetics or other aspects of the skincare industry, Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics is the most advanced esthetician school in Portland. Contact us today to jumpstart your new career.

Step 2: Research State and Program Requirements

The exact requirements for becoming certified in cosmetic lasers can vary from state to state and can depend on your professional background. However, the general steps involved in the certification process may require you to:

• Meet the prerequisites
• Enroll in an accredited training program
• Complete the training hours
• Pass the certification exam
• Maintain certification

Dedicate some time to researching what the requirements in your state are to ensure you’re prepared and up for the challenge.

Oregon Requirements for Cosmetic Laser Technicians

To have permanent certification to practice in Oregon, you are required to:

• Graduate from a licensed school for advanced non-ablative esthetics.
• Pass a written exam (the American Board of Laser Surgery’s Oregon Written Examination for Advanced Aestheticians).
• Enter into a collaborative agreement with a healthcare professional.

You must also complete:

• 500 hours of instruction
• 280 hours of theory
• 195 hours of practical work
• 25 discretionary hours
• 125 completed procedures

Step 3: Choose a School

Look for a school that can give you the training and certification you need to become an aesthetic laser technician.

An exceptional aesthetic laser technician school offers accredited, up-to-date, and comprehensive training with a strong emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice with various laser equipment.

Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics exceeds the criteria for Oregon’s esthetic licensure, offering the hours of theory and practical fundamental skills in a competency-based standard esthetics program and a 500-hour advanced esthetics program.

One of the most advanced esthetician schools in Portland, we offer exceptionally qualified staff and state-of-the-art equipment and devices. We prepare you with multiple program choices, including:

• Standard aesthetics program
• Advanced aesthetics program
• Nutrition certification for estheticians
• Microneedling and PRP Phlebotomy program
• Esthetician continuing education

Contact us today to learn more about the application process.

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Step 4: Complete the Training Course

A well-structured aesthetic laser training program should include both didactic and practical components to ensure that it can provide safe and effective services.

Didactic Instruction

This is the theoretical portion of a laser technician program. It’s classroom instruction that focuses on the science and safety behind using lasers in cosmetic or medical settings. Topics often include:

• Laser physics and safety protocols
• Skin anatomy and physiology
• Laser-tissue interactions
• Client assessment, skin typing, and treatment planning
• Machine settings and operation
• Post-treatment care and potential complications
• Regulatory compliance and legal considerations

Clinical Hands-On Training

This practical portion of training allows students to apply their classroom knowledge under the supervision of experienced professional and licensed instructors. You may perform hands-on treatments, including procedures such as:

• Laser hair removal
• Tattoo removal
• Skin rejuvenation
• Vascular or pigmented lesion treatment
• Body contouring

This real-world environment provides you with the opportunity to practice using the equipment, interacting with clients, and demonstrating clinical documentation.

Step 5: Obtain Certification

Obtaining your certification serves as the foundation for your career as an aesthetic laser technician. Certification ensures that patients are in the hands of qualified professionals who can minimize risks and complications.

At Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics, you can earn your esthetician certificate in as little as 12 weeks. Our Standard Esthetics Program exceeds state requirements and offers more options for equipment than any other esthetics school in Oregon.

This program can integrate with our Advanced Esthetics Program or may be taken as a stand-alone certification. Contact us today to learn about the many benefits of our esthetician certification program.

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Step 6: Advance Your Career

Once you spend some time in your career as a laser technician, you might consider opportunities for advancement.

You may choose to specialize in specific treatments, broadening your expertise by focusing on areas such as laser hair removal, tattoo removal, or skin resurfacing. Additionally, you can obtain advanced certificates to learn new laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) techniques.

Some technicians may pursue further education to become:

• A supervisor
• Specialized in advanced treatments, such as fractional laser resurfacing, non-ablative skin tightening, or laser-assisted lipolysis

With these additional qualifications, you can perform a wider range of cosmetic services. Advancing your education can expand the range of positions you're qualified for and increase your marketability as a laser technician.

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What Is the Job Outlook and Average Salary for an Aesthetic Laser Technician?

According to research, groundbreaking advancements in laser technology have not only broadened the appeal of laser skin rejuvenation but have also enabled an unprecedented level of treatment customization and safety.

With increased demand for non-invasive treatments, the job outlook looks extremely promising with projected growth of 7% by 2034 (the average growth rate for all occupations is only 3 percent).

A laser technician’s salary depends on factors like experience, location, and employer.

According to ZipRecruiter.com, the average hourly pay for a Cosmetic Laser Technician in Oregon is $26 an hour. If you work in a medspa or a beauty clinic, you may receive commission or client tips on the treatments you perform, adding to your base salary.

How Much Does Aesthetic Laser Technician Training Cost?

The cost of schooling is determined by the location, school type, and program length you choose. 

How do you know if you’re choosing the right program if they cost different amounts?

Here’s what you’ll want to look for when figuring out how to become a cosmetic laser technician and choosing an accredited program:

• Comprehensive curriculum: Covers a variety of laser treatments
• Hands-on experience: Vital for developing practical skills
• Certified instructors: Ensures quality and up-to-date knowledge
• State-approved programs: Necessary for meeting local licensing requirements

How do you pay for an esthetician school?

Here are some options for you to explore that may help finance your school tuition and fees:

• Financial Aid
• Scholarships and grants
• Private loans
• School-specific financial aid and/or payment plans
• Working part-time

What Does Aesthetic Laser Technician Training Consist Of?

Engaging curriculum often includes learning about different laser devices, understanding regulatory compliance, and practicing on real clients in a supervised setting.

You’ll learn how lasers and light-based devices work, the structure and function of the skin, and how to treat skin effectively and safely.

Well-rounded instruction and practical training in procedures such as laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, tattoo removal, and body contouring can provide you with the work experience you’ll need to land a dream job.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Laser Tech?

The total time it takes to become a laser tech depends on the type of training program you choose, your state's specific licensing requirements, and whether or not you pursue an accelerated path.

What Is the Work Environment Like for an Aesthetic Laser Technician?

Gone are the days of being stuck inside a dull cubicle or having every day feel like Groundhog Day.

As an aesthetic laser technician, you have the potential to work in medical spas, doctors’ offices, dermatology clinics, laser centers, and more. You’ll consistently interact with the people you work with, including receptionists, fellow laser techs, doctors, and your incredible clients.

Becoming an aesthetic laser technician means you’ll be a lifelong learner — the field is constantly evolving with new technologies and treatment techniques, promising you’ll never get bored, only more interested.

If you are searching for a career that is both lucrative and fulfilling, becoming a cosmetic laser technician could be the right choice for you.

Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics has the highest pass rate in the state.

Our Clinical Master Standard Esthetics Program is an entry-level esthetics program that focuses on incorporating state-of-the-art devices and equipment. Treatments you’ll learn include:

• European, clarifying, and sensitive skin facials
• Skincare consultation and analysis
• Brow and body waxing
• Ultrasonic skin spatula
• Chemical and enzyme exfoliation
• Lash lifting and tinting 
• Professional makeup application
• And so much more

If you choose to advance your skills through our Advanced Medical Aesthetics and Laser Program, you’ll dive into even more specialized techniques such as:

• Photo rejuvenation
• Tattoo removal
• Dyschromia reduction
• Cellulite reduction
• Hydrafacials
• Coolsculpting
  

We pride ourselves on elevating the esthetics industry and its future leaders. To learn more about how you can contribute to the future of beauty, contact us today.

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