I’m curious to know how many of you had laser hair reduction performed by a MD, PA, RN, or a tech without a medical certification. It seems like most of the laser clinics have a doctor as the medical director and techs doing the actual laser management. I have read the FAQ about laser hair removal but I am just wondering about your personal experiences. Thank you!
It varies and is really not that important. It’s important that they have experience and training in laser hair removal specifically as everyone, no matter what their unrelated certification is, has to go through it (because LHR is not taught in any of those programs or in med school). The reason there is a doctor either on site or attached to a clinic is because it’s a requirement in some states.
I’ve had treatments done by an MD himself, but that’s rare.
Experience and training is definitely important. Unfortunately, it’s hard to ascertain whether someone is truly knowledgable & experienced when you yourself might not know much about the procedure. You can’t just take their word for it. Do your research and learn as much as possible so that you can make the right choice. Personally, I chose an MD (which is rare) over an aesthetician. If something were to go wrong, you know you will be in good, intelligent hands. Plus, you can get a prescription for something if needed.
The clinic I go to uses RNs. I’ve never seen a Doctor and can’t help but to wonder if he’s always in Bermuda or something b/c when I hear them talking about asking him questions it seems like a big deal. LOL - I would prefer having an MD on site!
My practitioner holds a state certification and an unrelated college degree.
Do not assume an RN or MD will be a better hair removal practitioner. MDs typically have much less training in LHR than those who hold certifications. It was mentioned above already that there is no LHR training in RN or MD educational programs.
If your practitioner is competent and knowledgeable, side effects are minimal and there should be no reason to require a doctors expertise.
Some states like Washington State do not believe that having just laser certification is enough to operate a laser device.
Are laser technicians and electrologists allowed to use “prescriptive” LLRP (laser, light, radiofrequency and plasma) devices?
No. Individuals in these professions using such devices will be in violation of the DOH rules effective March 2007. Laser technicians and electrologists who use these types of devices may want to
consider the option of obtaining an esthetics or health care professional license.
I think you misread. pdeco1 just stated that anyone without prior certification in laser hair removal will need to get it, no matter what previous education or certification they’ve gotten because it’s unrelated.