Interested in starting your career as a Laser Technician in Iowa and not sure where to begin? Take a few minutes to read our summary of what education you need, any certifications required, job opportunities and salary expectations.

Based on the US Labor Bureau, the state of Iowa estimates job market growth for skincare specialist of over 11.5% through 2024. This is slightly less than the national average of 13% which makes Iowa an average location start a Laser Technician career.

The requirements for any person providing laser treatment were set by an adhoc committee on the Use of Lasers, Intense Pulsed Light Devices, and Radio-Frequency Devices in 2006 and accepted by the medical board that same year. These rules can be found here.

Education Required

Prior to 2006, no specific regulation was in place for Iowa with respect to the use of lasers in treatment. After multiple problems report to the medical board, an adhoc committee was put in place to set the education, training, licensure and supervision requirements from 2006 and forward. These rules specifically impact the practice of laser treatments by estheticians, cosmetologists and electrologists.

Within the report, the state board of medical examiners defined a minimum education requirement for laser technicians to include the following:

• Anatomy, physiology and pathology related to the condition being treated and the body’s response to the device being used
• Basic physics relevant to the device being used, including wavelength emitted and the chromophore targeted
• Safety issues relevant to the device being used
• Sedation and anesthesia utilized for such procedures, including risks associated with administration of topical anesthesia
• Possible complications and the appropriate treatment or referral for treatment of the complications
• How to properly evaluate various conditions and determine whether treatment by laser or an associated device is appropriate and whether it is appropriate for the knowledge and skill level of the healthcare provider intending to perform the care

Laser Technician Schools in Iowa will offer a combination of this coursework as well as on-site training which meet the obligations set above.

In order to perform laser treatments, aside from laser hair removal, a physician must diagnose the condition and delegate the procedure to the laser technician. This requirement ensures laser treatments which go below the dermal laser of the skin are performed and inspected by a medical doctor.

Iowa Laser Technician Certification(s)

The Committee on the Use of Lasers, Intense Pulsed Light Devices, and Radio-Frequency Devices also stipulates different licensure requirements based on the type of procedure being performed.

• Laser Hair Removal – Requires licensure as an esthetician, cosmetologist or electrologist. Can be performed without physician supervision. Each of these licenses will require training and a written exam approved by the state.
• Invasive Laser Treatments – May be delegated by Physicians but only to non-physicians with proper certification with the state.

Job Opportunities

The job market in Iowa for skincare specialist has been growing year over year, with a wealth of opportunities to start a career. You can see a detailed list of job postings on our Laser Technician Jobs page. Just filter to Iowa to find opportunities in your area.

Laser Technician Jobs

Salary Expectations

Skincare Specialists in the state of Iowa can expect an average income of $27,070 per year, or $13.01/hour. This salary expectation slightly less than the national average of $30,270 which is driven by the lower cost of living in the state. Working under the supervision of a physician may increase your salary as the scope of your laser treatments will increase in complexity. Experience can also increase your salary over time.