Choosing a Laser Hair Removal Specialist in Georgia

In Georgia, there are two levels of laser practitioners that you will come across: assistant laser practitioner and senior laser practitioner, and the licensing requirements are marginally different and depend on the years of experience. They do not have to be medical professionals. Facilities that provide laser services must have an agreement with a consulting physician who is trained in laser modalities and who has established proper protocols, and who should be available for an emergency consultation. This does not necessarily mean that a medical practitioner must be on-site at all times.

You should be aware that the FDA considers laser hair removal a medical procedure. The problem is that individual states have different licensing requirements; there is no nation-wide standard. All things considered, before you allow a person to perform laser hair removal, bear in mind the following:

1. The person you choose should be a specialty-specific, board-certified physician, trained in laser hair removal. If the individual isn’t a physician, ask whether or not a physician supervises.
2. You want to be sure that the staff doctor is medically capable of handling any potential problems as it relates to the procedure. Ideally, you want a dermatologist or a plastic/cosmetic surgeon to be on staff, in the unlikely event of a laser related mishap.
3. Does the facility own more than one type of laser? Your laser specialist should be aware that different lasers are necessary for different individual, depending on the skin color or the color or texture of the hair to be removed.
4. Where did the laser hair removal specialist get their training on the specific equipment, and exactly how much training? You should look for an individual with hands-on practice and course participation, not from a quick review from the laser salesman. The specialist should also be aware of the technical and medical aspects of laser hair removal. Do they belong to an association of laser professionals, and do they take classes to keep current on new technology and techniques?

While the cost of the service may be important to you, don’t let it be the only factor. By simply asking, the laser hair removal facility may allow you to make ongoing payments, or offer a discount for payment in cash, rather than a credit card.

A friend’s referral is a good starting point, and often sufficient to find a qualified laser specialist. Still, you should still talk to the specialist about issues above, and use your own good judgment. Trust your gut feelings.

For more information on licensing requirements in the State of Georgia follow these links:

Georgia Composite State Board of Medical Examiners
2 Peachtree Street, N.W., 36th Floor
Atlanta, Georgia 30303-3465
TEL: 404.656-3913
Web: www.medicalboard.state.ga.us

Georgia Board of Cosmetology
237 Coliseum Drive
Macon, GA 31217
Tel: 912.207.1441
Web: www.sos.state.ga.us