Lasers IPLs and the Law

Before you book an appointment at your local beauty salon for a laser or IPL treatment, read on to make sure you are putting your safety first.

It's not common knowledge that the Care Standards Act 2000 requires any person or business providing treatments using lasers or Intense Pulsed Light systems (IPL or LHE) to:

• Display a Certificate of Registration with the Healthcare Commission (Care Commission in Scotland)
• Comply with the Regulations and Standards
• Be inspected by the Healthcare Commission

The purpose of this legislation is to ensure:

• Safety and quality - Laser/IPL users must always put the client's safety first.
• Information - Laser/IPL users must provide clear and accurate information.
• Accountability - There must be an individual who will take responsibility for ensuring that regulations and standards are fulfilled.

Consistency - A consistent standard of care must be provided.
Any Laser/IPL provider that is not registered is operating illegally and may be operating without valid insurance. You should ask any laser or IPL provider the following questions before booking an appointment:

• Are you registered with the Healthcare Commission as required by CSA2000?
• Do you have a certificate of registration?
• Have you been inspected by the Healthcare Commission?
• Will I be able to see a copy of the inspection report?
• Do you have a Client's Guide that I can look at?

You also have a right to enquire of the NCSC/ Healthcare Commission whether any laser or IPL provider is registered and whether they are complying with the requirements of the Act.

For more information about the Healthcare Commission, or to find out if the clinic you are currently visiting is registered, contact the Healthcare Commission on 020 7448 9200 or email them at feedback@healthcarecommission.org.uk

Remember, it's up to you to make sure that your safety is paramount, don't assume that treatment providers are all as thorough and safe as you would like them to be.