Laser treatment for unwanted hair removal has become very popular – in part because it is quite effective relative to other procedures that are out there, and in part because it is fast and (in comparison) less painful. In essence, the laser beams destroy the hair at the root (the follicles) and thereby prevent the unwanted hair from growing back. In fact, after several treatments, the procedures could have a permanent effect.
However, the procedures are not without risk. What makes it worse is that the beauty industry has, since October 2010, been unregulated (when it comes to IPL – Intense Pulse Lasers), which means that there are no suitable training requirements for those who perform the procedure. In other words, you’re never sure whether the person who performs the operation is actually qualified or not. Here are the risks of the laser treatments – and what to do if you have been injured.
Potential risks
The risks are usually kept at a minimum if the proper procedures and correct equipment are used. However, here are some common injury claims:
- scarring
- discolouration of the skin, or uneven skin pigmentation
- psychological distress due to disfigurement
- nerve damage
- damage to the eyes
What you may experience
Following are some of the symptoms you may experience:
- Redness and irritation of skin
- Swelling around the follicles
- Tingling or numbness of the treated area
Note that your beautician or beauty expert should advise you about these things in advance. These symptoms are minor and usually go away rather soon – however, if they do not, or if there are worse symptoms, you may want to seek medical help as soon as possible.
The consequences of an injury
They can be serious – often they can change your life. It’s important to make a claim if you feel you are a victim.
Making a claim
Contact a special laser burn solicitor right away – they often work on a no-win-no-fee basis.
It’s important that you make a claim if you have been injured in any way due to laser or IPL treatment, and not just for your own sake. Of course, if you have been a victim, you have the right to compensation in order to make the process of healing and rehabilitation more manageable, but that’s just the start. You also have to make a claim in order to hold those responsible accountable, and in order to help prevent similar injuries from happening to other potential victims – if nothing is ever done, then nothing will ever improve. The industry is under-regulated as it is, and this needs to change. If you have been a victim, consult a legal professional as soon as possible to see what can be done.