Laser and IPL treatments are popular for hair removal and skin concerns. Many people see them as quick and low risk. The national radiation safety agency says that view is not supported. Knowing the risks and the right questions can help you choose a provider with care.
This guide draws on consumer advice from the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, known as ARPANSA. It covers what the treatments are and how rules differ between states. It also covers what to raise at your first consultation. It is general information only.
What lasers and IPL actually do
ARPANSA explains that a laser produces a beam of a single wavelength. The beam can be focused on the treated area to target things like hair, brown spots or tattoo pigment. IPL stands for intense pulsed light. It uses filtered pulses of white light and is less targeted than a laser, so its effects are more general.
Both are used for a wide range of cosmetic treatments. ARPANSA lists hair removal, tattoo removal and acne scarring among them. They are also used to reduce the look of blood vessels and pigmentation. Skin rejuvenation and treatments for the appearance of fat and cellulite are on the list too.
The risks to be aware of
ARPANSA lists burns, blistering and scarring among the possible injuries. Keloids, which are thickened and overgrown scars, can also occur. Skin can end up with more or less pigment than before. Damage to the eye is another risk.
ARPANSA says all forms of light based therapy can be hazardous to the eyes. Injuries range from temporary dazzling to permanent damage or blindness, especially near the eye. Eye damage can occur if safety goggles or internal eye shields are not used. If you are curious about lasers used on the eye itself, our post on the common misconceptions about laser eye surgery covers a medical use.
ARPANSA also points to the common causes of injury. These include untrained providers and the wrong device or settings for your skin type or hair colour. Medications that increase light sensitivity and recent sun exposure play a part. Skipped safety steps and faulty equipment are on the list as well.
Rules differ between states
There are no Australia wide requirements for who can deliver these treatments. ARPANSA says cosmetic lasers are regulated in Queensland, Tasmania and Western Australia. Providers there must hold a licence with the state regulator. IPL is only licensed in Tasmania.
The remaining states and territories have no specific licensing framework for these treatments. That means training levels can vary a great deal. Some providers are highly trained and some have little or no training. Rules can also change over time, so check the current position where you live.
Questions to ask before you book
ARPANSA suggests asking about the provider’s qualifications and experience. Ask whether a doctor performs the treatment. If not, ARPANSA suggests you consider seeing a GP or dermatologist first. You should also know who to contact if you have concerns afterwards.
A good consultation should cover a few key points. It is a chance to share anything that could affect your skin. ARPANSA lists these topics for the first visit.
- your medical history and any medications
- recent sun or solarium exposure
- the type of treatment and expected recovery
- the possible risks
- who to contact after treatment
Your provider should also assess your Fitzpatrick skin type. ARPANSA says this sets your safe laser setting. It adds that most burns in laser hair reduction come from getting this classification wrong. A provider who skips this step is worth questioning.
Sun, tans and medications
Tell your provider about any recent sun or solarium exposure. ARPANSA warns that a suntan can turn a previously safe treatment into a burn. Fake tans and melanotan injections also raise the risk of burns. ARPANSA says melanotan users need to wait 6 months before laser or IPL becomes safe again.
If you train outdoors, you may pick up more sun than you think. Group sessions in parks and beach runs are common examples. Our post on group fitness and motivation looks at why many people enjoy training with others. Our guide to avoiding injuries when working out covers other ways to look after your body while you train.
Declare every medication and supplement you take. ARPANSA says this includes prescription, non prescription and herbal products. Some can increase light sensitivity or slow healing. Our post on choosing the best vitamin C gives general information on one common supplement.
Moles, skin checks and test patches
ARPANSA says light based treatments can mask or change serious conditions such as melanoma. This can delay a diagnosis. If a doctor is not doing or supervising your treatment, ARPANSA says to have moles and blemishes checked by a doctor first. See your GP or dermatologist if a mole changes during treatment.
A test patch is another safeguard. ARPANSA says one should be done if you are very concerned or the treatment is higher risk. Hair removal on darker skin is one example it gives. A small area is treated and up to 48 hours is allowed to check for any reaction.
After your treatment
Some side effects are expected. ARPANSA lists redness, swelling, tingling or temporary darkening of spots. These usually settle within about 24 hours, though some last longer. Your provider should explain aftercare and keeping the area clean.
If you feel unexpected pain, ask the provider to stop straight away. For a sudden or severe reaction, see a medical professional promptly. ARPANSA says adverse reactions should be reported to your state or territory Health Complaints Commissioner. Injuries can also be reported to the ACCC.
You can read the full ARPANSA advice for consumers and its overview of IPL for cosmetic purposes. Both explain the risks in more detail. They are a good place to start before your first appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Is laser hair removal regulated in Australia?
There are no national rules on who can perform it. ARPANSA says cosmetic lasers are regulated in Queensland, Tasmania and Western Australia. IPL is only licensed in Tasmania.
Can I have laser or IPL with a tan?
Tell your provider about any recent sun exposure. ARPANSA warns that a suntan can turn a safe treatment into a burn. Fake tans and melanotan also raise the risk.
Do I need a test patch?
ARPANSA says a test patch should be done if you are very concerned or the treatment is higher risk. A small area is treated first. Up to 48 hours is allowed to check the reaction.
What should I do if something goes wrong?
Ask the provider to stop if you feel unexpected pain. See a medical professional promptly for a severe reaction. You can report it to your state or territory Health Complaints Commissioner.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Rules for cosmetic treatments differ between states and can change. Please speak with your doctor, a dermatologist or another qualified health professional before booking any laser or IPL treatment.
