Cosmetic lasering is shaping the future of the skin care industry and treatments are booming in Australia.
The skin laser treatments market is expected to grow to be worth $US566.2 million ($AUD911 million) by 2030, according to projections by industry analysts Grand View Research.
Cosmetic lasers, which use light energy targeted at the skin, are administered by trained professionals to help clients manage a range of concerns from acne scarring to the removal of tattoos.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Health Science in Aesthetics at Torrens University Australia will be uniquely placed to contribute to this fast-growing industry.
Torrens University is the only higher education provider in Queensland authorised to provide cosmetic laser training, paving the way for graduates to apply for a license with Queensland Health to deliver services.
We spoke with course coordinator Amanda Malden-Browne about future trends in the aesthetics industry and the value of obtaining a cosmetic laser licence.
Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics) provides evidence-based treatments
The Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics) provides students with a well-rounded education to deliver evidence-based treatments for a variety of skin concerns.
Course coordinator Amanda Malden-Browne, who has been working in the aesthetics industry for more than 30 years, says the degree prepares graduates to deliver treatments that can have a significant impact on the confidence and mental health of their patients.
“Graduates are equipped to address a wide range of skin concerns, outperforming traditional treatments with a holistic approach that emphasises dermal care from the inside out,” she says.
“This comprehensive approach allows our graduates to make a long-term rewarding difference in the lives of others while thriving in a dynamic, evolving, and technology-driven field.”
The degree prepares students to work in a variety of clinical and non-clinical roles in the skincare space. On completion of the degree and the laser training courses, graduates are also eligible to obtain a cosmetic laser licence from Queensland Health.
“Graduates in this field have virtually limitless and diverse career opportunities, including clinical and non-clinical roles. Many have had the exciting opportunity to collaborate with world-class professionals such as plastic surgeons, dermatologists, cosmetic physicians, nurse practitioners, and cosmetic nurses,” Malden-Browne says.
Cosmetic laser training and licensing for graduates in Queensland
The use of cosmetic laser technology is tightly regulated, with practitioners required to complete formal training and licensing before offering their services to the community.
Torrens University Australia is at present the only higher education provider that is authorised to provide cosmetic laser training.
Once students have completed their laser studies and their bachelor’s degree, they can obtain a certificate of competency from the university and use this to secure a cosmetic laser licence with Queensland Health.
“Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, with the goal of promoting a profound understanding of the fundamental principles and advanced applications of laser technologies,” Malden-Browne explains.
Amanda Malden-Browne on the value of obtaining a cosmetic laser license
Students in the Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics) receive training from highly experienced staff, including course coordinator Amanda Malden-Browne, who has worked in the industry in the United Kingdom and Australia for three decades.
Malden-Browne says that Torrens University's commitment to cosmetic laser training has been of huge benefit to both the academic staff and the future careers of students.
“Completing extensive cosmetic laser training and obtaining the requisite licensure has greatly broadened the professional capabilities of our academic team.”
Academic staff at Torrens are passionate about the way the aesthetics industry can help patients feel better in their everyday lives. Training in technologies like cosmetic lasering will boost graduates’ ability to help their clients.
“Defining highlights of our careers have been our profound ability to transform our patients' lives, improving their well-being from the inside out,” Malden-Browne says.
Innovations in the aesthetics industry are moving fast and in the coming years, graduates must have a diverse range of skills as technologies like artificial intelligence further personalise skin care treatments.
“Graduates must demonstrate the ability to adapt and design content effectively across various devices, ranging from conventional screens to new immersive platforms, to remain pertinent in a swiftly changing environment,” Malden-Browne says.
The Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics) aims to prepare students for that future.