Which? Warns Of The Dangers Of Mixing Sun And Laser Hair Removal, UK
Holidaymakers having laser hair removal in preparation for escaping the British weather this weekend must do their research and consider the risks, warns Which?
Which? research1 shows that almost two fifths (39 per cent) of people thinking about having cosmetic treatments consider cost to be the most important factor in their decision and only 14 per cent consider the risks.
But, with around 3,000 unlicensed and unregulated providers of laser hair removal in the UK2 a lot of people could damage their skin if they don't properly research the practitioner they intend to use. Having laser hair removal treatment while being tanned or just before going out in the sun can cause burning, scarring, blisters or changes in skin colour.
Frances Blunden, health campaigner, Which?, says:
"Remember to stay out of the sun before and after having laser hair removal treatment as your skin may have a reaction. Plan it for a time when you know you won't be in the sun.
"If you are having laser hair removal treatment, make sure that the clinic is licensed and the practitioner properly qualified. Otherwise, you could be putting yourself in the hands of untrained staff who don't explain all the possible risks."
Mr David Gault, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at the Portland Hospital, London, comments:
"When you have laser hair removal the laser itself targets the pigment in your hair in order to destroy it. Unfortunately, when the skin is tanned, the deeper melanin colour of the skin can also become a target. Therefore in some unfortunate cases, the patient's skin can be left patchy and mottled - not the look they were expecting. In some cases the appearance is actually leopard-like - with white spots."
Laser hair removal is the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment - in 2005, 166,000 treatments were carried out and the market worth £41.5 million3. Which? is now asking the government to ensure there is stricter regulation in place so that people are better protected.
-- Treatment should only be carried out by trained operator who must have at leasta BTEC qualification in light based treatments, or the equivalent, or be a qualified health professional.
-- Ask if they have experience in treating different skin and hair colours.
-- Ask to see the clinic's Healthcare Commission registration number. If they aren't registered, you should walk away.
During the procedure:
-- Remember that laser hair removal can be painful - be prepared.
-- Ensure you are given special goggles to protect your eyes.
-- Understand that your skin will be red and sensitive after treatment.
Nearly 700,000 cosmetic procedures were undertaken in Britain last yearand 84 per cent were non-surgical.
The Healthcare Commission covers the regulation of laser providers in England only. In Scotland it's the Scottish Commission for the Regulation of Care and in Wales, the Healthcare Inspectorate Wales.
1. In September 2006 Which? surveyed 306 people online who were planning or had undergone cosmetic procedures and interviewed 30 of them in depth by telephone.
2. According to an estimate by the IHAS (Independent Healthcare Advisory Service) there are around 4,000 unlicensed laser hair removal providers in the UK. According to the Healthcare Commission, there are just 960 that are regulated in England.
3. Cosmetic Surgery Market Intelligence study from June 2006 published by Mintel International Group Limited.