I would like to know if a licensed cosmetologist working in a clinic under supervision of a Dr. can inject Botox and do laser?

The short answer is that this varies by state. In general, it is a good idea to stick with a board-certified physician for Botox, and any injection for that matter. It is very easy to train any healthcare provider to perform the injections. But when there is a complication or poor results, and they do occur, a board-certified physician would be better equipped to handle them. Good luck!Dr. Harmych

Thank you for your question.  Only a physician, nurse, PA, or NP should be injecting Botox.  Consult with a board certified injector.  Best Wishes.

While laws vary from state to state, a cosmetologist should not be injecting Botox.  These treatments are usually provided by physicians, experienced nurses, or physicians assistants.  It is extremely important to be treated by someone who is not only qualified but highly experienced whether you are receiving Botox or any other aesthetic treatment.

Thank you for your question. Botox should typically be administered by a physician or nurse. All the best,

I suggest going to a well trained core physician for any aesthetic procedures to limit any complications.  Best, Dr. Emer.

No. It is not legal for a cosmetologist to order and administer Botox or perform or operate any laser devices. 

Although there is a gap between law and what people actually do, there is no legal or experiential justification for a cosmetologist to inject Botox in Florida.  There is no doubt that it does happen, which is perplexing.  Cosmetologists  cannot order Botox from Allergan or any injectable product for good reason.  These are toxins and medical grade products that belong in experienced hands.

No - with just a cosmetology certificate, in Florida, it is not currently legal for a cosmetologist to operate a laser or inject Botox, even under the supervision of a physician.  Even the Florida Board of Nursing says this is outside of the scope of practice for a nurse, let alone a cosmetologist.  

Thanks for the question and one thing you see from the answers is that every state has different rules and regulations. And Florida is no exception where I have been aware of that there has been legislation on the books for several years on who can do what and where. A cosmetologist has no business injecting Botox in Florida or any state – this is not in the scope of their license and even under the auspices of a licensed physician, this is not something that should be done anywhere. Lasers are a little more in the gray area – and again, in Florida, hair removal lasers can be used by cosmetologist, under the auspices of a physician – but in this market and anywhere, it is buyer’s beware – make sure that the person doing anything to you is well trained, well versed, and well supervised. Bottom line – be careful.

It is NOT in the scope of practice for a cosmetologist to administer BOTOX injections to a patient even under the supervision of a Florida licensed MD/DO!!!! In fact it is a loss of license issue for both the cosmo. and doc. If this is or has happened PLEASE pm me the names so a report can be submitted to the DPR & the Fl Board of Medicine. As for laser it depends on the class of laser being applied, i.e. hair removal lasers are Ok but ablative lasers are NOT!