Laser treatments are a popular and highly effective way of removing unwanted hair from areas of the body. The process involves the use of laser beams to destroy hair follicles. Because this can be done very quickly, and the results last much longer than traditional methods of waxing, threading and tweezing, laser treatment is the preferred method of hair removal for many women and men.
Laser treatment can also be used for smoothing out skin imperfections, such as wrinkles, stretch marks, tattoos and acne scars. To get rid of these imperfections electrodes in the laser beam will blast away the top layers of skin, exposing the pink lower layer or dermis. Heating the dermis stimulates the production of collagen, and this in turn causes healthy, blemish-free layers of skin to form.
What are the risks of laser treatment?
The laser beams can be very powerful, which is why it's somewhat surprising that, until very recently, the cosmetic use of laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) systems at clinics and salons was not regulated by the Government.
In 2016 new legislation was introduced in England. Non NHS clinics and salons offering laser treatment need to be registered with the Care Quality Commission. Also, beauty therapists will need to obtain minimum qualifications before they can carry out laser and IPL treatments. These qualifications are required by law in England.
From April 2017, HealthCare Improvement Scotland (HIS) will require independent clinics providing laser hair removal treatments to be registered. Clinics will be subject to spot checks and need to have a specialist Laser Protection Adviser appointed.
Laser treatments understandably need a high level of technical accuracy as the powerful laser beams have the ability to burn and damage the skin, potentially causing permanent scarring. In some case the skin may even become discoloured. Very often the reason for having the treatment is to get rid of a cosmetic blemish, but the reality is that some people end up with scarring that is worse than before.
That is why, if you are having IPL or laser hair treatment you should have an in-depth consultation with the practitioner to make sure the treatment is suitable for you. You should also ensure that you have a skin test first, and remember that if you have been on holiday or your tan has faded you should ask for another skin test as your skin may react differently.
Move forward with Thompsons
If you have been affected by a beauty treatment which has gone wrong, then contact Thompsons today. We can guide you through your beauty treatment compensation claim, even if you are not sure whether you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to discuss your circumstances, and you can then decide if you would like to proceed with your case. For honest, straightforward advice from a legal expert, talk to Thompsons. Call us on 0800 0891 331 today.
