Lax Laser Hair Regulations in Canada Highlight the Importance of Having a Trained Professional

A recent editorial in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) commented on the dangers of Canada’s lax laser hair removal regulations. Currently any person, regardless of the amount of training they have or do not have, is legally allowed to operate a laser hair removal device.  No license is required and training is left up to the manufacturers of the machines themselves.

The article comments on the dangers of improper hair removal, quoting Diane Kelsall, Deputy Editor, Clinical Practice of CMAJ, who writes that, “Although controlled trials of laser hair removal have shown that severe adverse effects are uncommon, there have been reports of burns, pigmentary changes, scarring, reactivation of herpes viruses and even paradoxical hypertrichosis, the growth of unwanted hair.  Eye complications have also occurred when the eyes have not been shielded adequately.”

The risk factors discussed above are reason enough to make sure you visit a qualified laser hair removal specialist.  While all U.S. operators of laser hair removal machines must have a license, it is a good idea to look one step further and make sure that you are getting laser hair removal from someone who is also a member of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS), an organization dedicated to promoting research and education in the field of medical laser applications.  Experience is also a key factor in looking for a qualified laser hair removal specialist.  You want to look for an office that specializes in laser technology, not an office that specializes in another field, but offers laser hair removal to make some extra money on the side.

Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center employs licensed laser hair removal specialists, is a member of ASLMS, and has been providing safe laser treatments for all skin types since 1999.  Under the guidance of Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Owner, Dr. David Whiteman, Laser Lights has performed over 50,000 treatments.

While stricter regulations on laser hair removal are greatly needed in Canada, we in the United States are lucky to have licensed experts like the team at Laser Lights for safe laser hair removal on all skin types.  Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

And don’t forget to follow us on facebook!