How to Choose a New York-Based Laser Hair Removal Specialist

One thing should be perfectly clear; laser hair removal is considered a medical procedure, and is regulated by the U.S. government’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Sadly, there are no nation-wide licensing requirements; they vary depending on the state that the operation is within. Even so, there are some things you should take into consideration, before you give a person “license” to perform this procedure on you.

1. New York State permits non-medical practitioners to use a laser. What that means, is that even the salon’s receptionist could, theoretically, be your laser hair removal specialist. Before you allow someone to work their magic on you, consider the following:
2. The individual you choose to should be a physician, preferably board-certified, and trained specifically in laser hair removal. If the person is not, you need to learn whether or not there is a physician who supervises.
3. You want to ensure that the physician on staff is qualified to handle any problems that may arise, as it pertains to the procedure. An ob/gyn obviously will not have the same specialization as a cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist who would know exactly how to treat you in the event of accidental overexposure of the laser to your skin.
4. The person performing the laser hair removal should already have strong experience, and not be using you as a guinea pig.
5. You need to find out if they own several lasers. Your specialist is aware that different lasers work better depending on the individual, as regards skin type, color or hair texture.
6. How much training did they receive on the laser, and from where did they get it? You are ideally looking for training and participation at the hands-on level, not from a lesson from the sales rep. The individual should be familiar with the technical and well as the medical aspects and possible results. They should also belong to a professional society or association, and take continuing education classes to improve their skills.

A reference from a friend is good; it’s often enough to find a good provider. But, you should still discuss the above issues, and use your own judgment. If your gut feeling says “no,” trust it.

If the cost of the laser hair removal is important to you, you still shouldn’t let it be the deciding factor. Your mother was right when she told you that when you buy cheap, you get cheap. Specialists with higher end fees may be willing to allow monthly payments or provide a cash discount. It doesn’t cost anything to ask.

For more information, including regulations and licensing requirements for laser hair removal centers in New York, please visit:

New York State Education Department
89 Washington Avenue
Albany, New York 12234-1000
Tel: 518.474-3817
Web: www.op.nysed.gov/medcontact.htm

Department of State Division of Licensing Services
84 Holland Avenue
Albany, NY 12208
Tel: 518.474-4429
Web: www.dos.state.ny.us

It’s important to say this again, in New York State, laser hair removal operators do not need to be medical doctors or even have medical training. Keep that in mind when you make your choice.