Cosmetic use of lasers and intense lights

In response to the deregulation of certain laser and intense light treatments from October 2010,  the Independent Healthcare Advisory Services (IHAS), Association of Laser Protection and Healthcare Advisors (ALPHA), Local Government Regulation (LG Regulation, previously LACORS) and the Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Authority (Habia) have formed a working group, in association with the Department of Health and Health Protection Agency to develop an industry accreditation scheme to establish essential standards for the laser and intense lights cosmetic industry.

The scheme will ensure that the capacity to provide comprehensive information about lasers and intense light treatments and accredited providers remains available to Councils and the public. IHAS/ALPHA/ LG Regulation/Habia are in discussions to establish a pilot scheme with the London Local Authorities using their regulatory framework under the Health and Safety at Work Act etc. 1974 and London Special Treatments Licensing in conjunction with the standards.

In addition to this pilot any Local Authority enforcing the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 can use those existing powers with non-surgical laser and intense light providers.

For more information visit IHAS website www.independenthealthcare.org.uk

Notes:

IHAS: a representative organisation for the independent healthcare sector which exists to share innovation, knowledge and expertise for the common good.

ALPHA: a representative body of Laser Protection Advisors (LPA) and Expert Medical  Practitioner  service providers, working in the field of Aesthetic Medicine/Cosmetic Procedures.

L G  Regulation: the local government central body responsible for overseeing local authority regulatory and related services in the UK.

Habia:  the Sector Skills Body (SSB) responsible for setting standards and skill issues in the hair and beauty sector.