Laser Training Schools in Washington

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

How to Become a Laser Technician in Washington

Washington, as a state with an active tourism industry, is a great place to work in the beauty industry. People want to look good, and they're willing to pay for results. Learning about different specialties and career paths can help you find an area of study that suits you. One option to keep in mind is laser hair removal. Working as a laser tech in WA allows you to build a solid base of loyal clients and create a reputation in one area of cosmetology.

State License Requirements

Though most cosmetology careers fall squarely into the beauty industry, laser hair removal involves medical equipment. For that reason, it is under the oversight of the cosmetology industry and the medical industry. Each state sets its own licensing standards and laser operation laws. In the state of Washington, the Washington State Medical Commission restricts who can operate a laser.

Education Details

Only medical doctors, physician's assistants, nurse practitioners, and estheticians can legally operate a laser for laser hair removal. However, with the right training, you can add laser certification to your esthetician license.

Washington laser training programs should provide extensive theory and testing in the following topics:

• Dermatology
• Hair growth cycles
• Hygiene and safety
• Principles of laser hair removal
• Laser modalities
• Client consultation and education
• Protocols for laser hair removal
• Professional standards and laws

WA laser training programs prioritize hands-on experience, which benefits you in your new career. By participating in dozens of laser hair removal procedures, you can become a skilled technician and feel confident working with any part of the body. Use this time to get feedback from your instructor and learn how to be more efficient in your technique.

License Renewal

To become a laser tech in Washington State, you should enroll in a course or program that is recognized by the National Council on Laser Certification (NCLC). They are the official organization that set the standards that laser techs adhere to in order to deliver the care patients expect. If you work as an esthetician, cosmetologist, nurse, or in a related area, this might be a good way to expand your professional opportunities. When you register with the NCLC, you will need to go through the renewal process every three years, and pay a $95 fee.

Washington Laser Training Careers

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. You may look for positions in spas or salons, two of the most popular locations for hair removal. From 2012 through 2022, job openings for skin care specialists in Washington may jump 27% (O*Net, 2016). Salaries in Washington tend to be close to national averages; the average income for a skin care specialist is $34,580 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016).

The Job Outlook for a Laser Technologist in Washington appears to have room for growth. Laser Technologists can expect little to no competition in the Washington market. With a location quotient of 0.82 and an average annual wage of $34,580, Washington is considered to have a lower employment level for this occupation, hence the need for more people, as well as owners, in this industry.

Contact the Washington State Board of Cosmetology