38 ASCP Skin Deep May/June 2021
SCOPE OF PRACTICE
In most states, laser and light energy procedures can
be performed by estheticians under the supervision
of a licensed physician. Additional training or laser
certification is often required in addition to an
esthetician license. In states with master esthetician
licensing (Oregon, Utah, Virginia, Washington State, and
Washington, D.C.), master estheticians are permitted to
perform laser resurfacing procedures. Most states view
the use of lasers/light energy procedures as a medical
practice. However, a number of states have made efforts
to clarify their use and have created new legislation.
Georgia has implemented the Georgia Cosmetic
Laser Services Acts, which provide a set of competencies
required to perform cosmetic laser procedures and become
licensed as a cosmetic laser practitioner. Estheticians
can apply if they meet specific qualifications, such as
holding three or more certificates from approved laser/
IPL continuing education courses. Texas is another
state with similar legislation aimed at protecting
the public and those performing laser procedures.
The Texas Laser Rule states that laser practitioners
must perform cosmetic laser procedures under the
supervision of a physician or mid-level practitioner.
8
Notes
1. Nina Bahadur, " 'Love Your Lines' Instagram Account Celebrates Stretch
Marks as Beautiful, not 'Flaws,' " HuffPost, updated August 14, 2014,
www.huffpost.com/entry/love-your-lines-instagram-stretch-marks_n_5675106.
2. Vanessa Ngan, "Stretch Marks," DermNet NZ, 2003, www.dermnetnz.org/
topics/stretch-marks-striae.
3. Vanessa Ngan, "Stretch Marks."
4. Bardia Amirlak, "Laser Treatment of Scars and Stria Distensae," Medscape, updated
July 17, 2017, https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1120673-overview#a5.
5. Chernoff Cosmetic Surgery, "Reduce Stretch Marks with Fractionated CO2
Laser Therapy," March 14, 2016, www.drchernoff.com/reduce-stretch-marks-
fractionated-co2-laser-therapy.
6. Vanessa Ngan, "Fractional Laser Treatment," DermNet NZ, updated July 2015,
www.dermnetnz.org/topics/fractional-laser-treatment.
7. Vanessa Ngan, "Fractional Laser Treatment."
8. EstheticianEDU.org, "Everything You Need to Know About Offering Laser Skin
Treatments," accessed March 2021, www.estheticianedu.org/laser-skin-treatment.
Liability Insurance
Professional liability insurance for laser and light energy procedures protects you in case a client sues. ASCP members have
access to optional advanced modality coverage that protects you and your esthetics practice if you perform laser procedures
or other advanced modalities, such as permanent makeup or radio frequency. More information about advanced modality
coverage, including the steps for applying, is available at ascpskincare.com/ami. Pricing for laser services ranges from $1,161
to $1,403 per year, and coverage can be bundled with other advanced modalities to save more. If you can answer yes to the
following three questions, you may be eligible for this advanced modality coverage:
• Do I have proof of advanced training with hands-on experience?
• Am I practicing these modalities within the scope of practice authorized by the state in which I work?
• Am I an ASCP member, or do I plan to be?
Learn more about ASCP's Advanced Modality Insurance program for members at ascpskincare.com/ami.
ADVANCED MODALITIES
Stretch marks are best
treated when newly formed,
and using a pulsed dye laser
(PDL) can pick up the stretch
mark pigment, reducing its
appearance.
