An IPL/Laser Technician is somebody in the cosmetic medical industry who will specialise in hair removal procedures.
Laser technicians will use intense pulsed light (IPL) emitters on the skin, which will absorb the dark particles that are located in hair follicles. Laser technicians are only able to remove dark hair from the skin. This is because it targets a substance named eumelanin, which isn't produced in lighter hair colours.
Qualifications and entry requirements
There is a strict training, licensing and certification process which is required in order to become a laser technician. Only candidates who have had previous experience in the medical field will be able to acquire a licence. After obtaining a medical degree candidates also have to undertake a 40 hour technician training course. Only when both of these courses have been completed will they be able to apply for a licence.
The job of an IPL/Laser technician is still in it's infancy; however there is a constant increase in interest. Many cosmetic surgery outlets are beginning to offer the service, and are therefore seeking qualified staff. There majority of employment opportunities are available within inner cities. IPL/Laser technician jobs can often be found through recruitment agencies.
Salaries
The average salary of a cosmetic laser technician is £24,000; however those who work for a busy cosmetic establishment may be able to earn up to £40,000.