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How much does a cosmetic laser tech make? It really depends on a number of factors, including experience, geographic location, and the type of laser technology they use. Check out this blog post to learn more about what factors affect a cosmetic laser tech’s salary.
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Job Description
As a cosmetic laser technician, you will be responsible for operating laser and light-based equipment to remove unwanted hair, treat skin conditions, and improve the overall appearance of your patients. In order to be successful in this role, you must have excellent customer service skills and be able to explain the procedures you will be performing to your patients.
Duties
A cosmetic laser technician is responsible for operating laser equipment to remove hair, treat skin conditions, and perform other cosmetic procedures. He or she may work in a variety of settings, including a spa, dermatologist office, or laser center. In some cases, the technician may also be responsible for sales and marketing tasks related to promoting the services of the business.
Most cosmetic laser technicians are required to complete a training program before they can begin working. Some programs last as little as six weeks, while others may take up to a year to complete. After completing a training program, the technician must obtain certification from a professional organization such as the National Coalition of Estheticians and Cosmetologists (NCEA) or the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS). Many states also have their own certification requirements that technicians must meet in order to work in that state.
Qualifications
In order to qualify for a position as a cosmetic laser technician, individuals must first complete a postsecondary training program. Although there are no formal education requirements, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a course of study in esthetics, cosmetology, or dermatology. Once they have completed their training, technicians must obtain licensure in the state in which they wish to practice.
Most states require laser technicians to complete a certain number of hours of continuing education every year in order to maintain their license. Many employers also require their employees to complete annual CPR and first aid certification. Some states may also require technicians to take an examination in order to renew their license.
Training and Certification
You must have a certificate or diploma from an accredited college in order to work as a Cosmetic Laser Technician. The average salary for a Cosmetic Laser Technician is $52,000 per year.
Programs
Most community and technical colleges offer 10- to 12-week certificate programs in medical aesthetics or cosmetology with a laser emphasis. Certificate programs typically include laser safety, hair removal, tattoo removal, skin resurfacing, vascular lesions, pigmented lesions and photo rejuvenation.
Some colleges also offer 1- or 2-year associate’s degree programs in medical aesthetics that include more advanced coursework in areas such as business management, salesmanship, insurance billing and marketing. These programs often require an externship at a medical spa or other approved facility.
Certification
Laser technicians may seek certification from a professional organization such as the National Council on Laser Certification (NCLC). The NCLC offers four different types of certification, each with its own eligibility requirements. Board-certified laser technicians must have completed an accredited laser training program and have at least two years of professional experience. In addition, they must pass a written exam and a skills assessment. Certified laser technicians need to recertify every three years by completing continuing education courses or passing an exam.
Salary
A cosmetic laser tech’s salary depends on a few factors, including experience, geographical location, and the type of facility they work in. They can make anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000 per year. The median salary for a cosmetic laser tech is $50,000.
National
The median annual salary for cosmetic laser technicians was $32,590 in 2016, with the top 10% earning more than $54,090, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1 Salaries can vary based on factors such as training, experience, geographic location and employer.
Cosmetic laser technicians in the top-paying industries2 tended to earn the highest salaries:
IndustryAnnual Mean Wage
Offices of Other Health Practitioners$47,610
Outpatient Care Centers$43,730
Physicians’ Offices$43,200
Hospitals; State, Local, and Private$41,760
Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities)$39,870
Local
In the United States, the average annual salary for a cosmetic laser technician is $52,000, which is about $25 per hour. However, salaries can vary greatly depending on experience, location, and employer. For instance, experienced laser technicians working in New York City or Los Angeles may earn significantly more than those working in smaller cities.
Job Outlook
Growth
The job outlook for cosmetic laser technicians is bright, with a projected job growth of 12% between 2018 and 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This is faster than the average rate of growth for all occupations. The need for cosmetic laser procedures is expected to continue to grow as more people seek ways to improve their appearance.
As the baby boomer population ages, there is an increased demand for minimally invasive procedures, such as those done with lasers, to help people look younger. In addition, advances in technology are making lasers safer and more effective, which is also helping to drive growth in this field.
Competition
Competition for jobs should be strong because the number of graduates from cosmetic laser technician programs exceeds the number of job openings. Many laser technicians find jobs in spa settings. However, licensure may be required for some states and for specific types of lasers.
