Laser Training Schools in Virginia

Browse our directory of laser training schools in Virginia, or skip ahead to learn about the state's laser training licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Laser Technician in Virginia

If you have steady hands and a passion for customer service, you can put those talents to use in a career in laser hair removal. Laser hair removal requires you to use a very powerful laser to damage hair at its follicle, slowing future growth and decreasing the thickness of hair. This is a very precise task, and a strong sense of focus can help you succeed. Strong customer service skills are extremely valuable in this field, since customers may be nervous or embarrassed about seeking hair removal services.

State License Requirements

If you want to work as a laser hair removal technician, you must first complete your education at one of the many Virginia laser training schools. The training you get at one of these institutions can prepare you to follow the laws of the Virginia Board of Medicine. In the state of Virginia, every laser hair removal facility must have a medical director. Direct supervision of non-medical personnel is required. Once the medical director has allowed you to use the laser, they do not have to be in the facility during hair removal procedures. Once you have a license that allows you to perform laser hair removal, such as an esthetics license or a nurse practitioner license, you can begin working immediately. However, note that the state of Washington requires initial consultations to be completed by medical doctors or nurse practitioners.

Education Details

Before you get to that step, however, you can learn more about laser training programs in VA. These programs may be offered through beauty schools, community colleges, and technical schools.

Your curriculum should cover these and other subjects:

• Hair structure and function
• Hair growth patterns
• Laser hair removal precautions
• Safety protocols with lasers
• Laser theory
• Laser physics
• Indications and contraindications
• Bloodborne pathogens
• Complications and aftercare

You must understand laser theory to work in this field, but it's just as important to build your practical skills. As a student, you should observe laser hair removal procedures and participate in them. This experience is the foundation of your laser technician career.

License Renewal

To work as a laser tech in Virginia, you should enroll in a course or program that is recognized by the standards of the National Council on Laser Certification (NCLC). This organization oversees the national standards for laser technologist practices. They help estheticians, nurses, and other practitioners in related areas, develop the skills to perform in these roles, and give doctors the confidence to hire them. Once you register with the NCLC, you will have to renew your license every three years. Just submit their application, along with the $95 fee.

Virginia Laser Training Careers

Once you've completed your training and earned enough experience to work independently, you can start looking for a job. Virginia spas, salons, and beauty shops that employ medical directors may be employment options to consider. You can also look into becoming a self-employed laser technician if you'd rather work for yourself. The future of skin care is promising in Virginia, and this includes hair removal specialties. Between 2012 and 2022, O*Net expects job openings for skin care specialists to increase 48% (2016). The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average salary of $43,160 per year for skin care specialists in Virginia (2016).

VA laser training is essential for individuals who want to start a career in laser treatment therapy. Laser treatment specialists in Virginia work in a variety of environments, including privately owned treatment centers and with major health and medical networks. The average salary for a laser treatment specialist is $30,090 per year. Individuals who plan on a career in laser treatment will join a work force of 55,000 people. Popular laser treatment centers in Virginia are:

Contact the Virginia State Board of Cosmetology