Before I Became a Laser Tech, I Was a Client—Here’s What Happened

When it comes to skincare treatments, doing your research is everything. Before stepping into an aesthetic clinic—or trusting a stranger with your face—you need to be informed. I learned this lesson the hard way.

At 17, I struggled with persistent forehead acne that left me with scars. I hated my skin. Every day, I layered on heavy makeup just to feel comfortable leaving the house. Desperate for a solution, I searched online, but the overwhelming amount of conflicting advice left me confused.

Then, I stumbled upon a nearby "laser clinic" and booked an appointment—without knowing what to expect.

The Red Flags I Ignored

The first sign of trouble? When I called to book, the man on the phone promised, "Our laser will make you look ten years younger after one treatment!" That should have been a huge red flag—I was only 20! But I brushed it off and went anyway.

When I arrived, I realized the "clinic" was actually a hair salon, with a small backroom where treatments were performed. The technician didn’t explain anything—no details about the procedure, no mention of potential risks, no aftercare instructions. She just placed metal goggles over my eyes, making me even more uncertain about what was happening.

Then, something alarming happened: I heard her speaking in another language, calling someone into the room. I peeked under my goggles and saw her flipping through a manual for the laser machine while discussing settings with her husband. That should have been my cue to leave. But I stayed—because I was desperate for clear skin.

The Treatment: Painful, Uninformed, and Useless

The procedure was painful and filled with bright flashes of light that I could see even through the goggles. Alarmed, I asked if that was normal. The technician dismissed my concerns and continued.

When it was over, she simply told me to book another session in a few weeks—no aftercare instructions, no mention of sunscreen, nothing. It was the middle of summer, and I had no idea the treatment had made my skin more sensitive to the sun. I unknowingly accumulated more sun damage because of her negligence.

I paid over $200 per session and went back twice more, hoping for results. Nothing changed—except for the extra damage to my skin.

What I Know Now as a Laser Tech

Looking back, I’m thankful it wasn’t worse. That woman was using an IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) device, not a laser—a treatment that carries a higher risk of burns and complications than true laser technology. Worse, she clearly didn’t know how to use it properly.

I also now understand that in many places, there is no formal education required to operate laser and IPL machines. Anyone can get behind one and start treating people—terrifying, right?

How This Experience Shaped My Approach

Because of what I went through, I make sure every client in my chair feels informed, comfortable, and confident before any treatment. Here’s what I do differently:

✅ Transparent Consultations – I take my time explaining procedures, answering questions, and setting realistic expectations.

✅ Educating Clients – You’ll always know what to expect before, during, and after a treatment.

✅ Ongoing Support – I provide aftercare guidance and ensure my clients can reach me with any concerns.

✅ Safety First – I use safe, effective technologies and prioritize your skin’s long-term health over quick fixes.

A consultation with me might take longer than what you’re used to, but that’s because I believe informed clients make the best decisions for their skin.

Want to Book a Consultation?

📞 Text/Call: 403-991-1663📧 Email: lauraslasers@gmail.com📲 Message me on Instagram: @lauras_lasers