Where Should I Get Laser Epilation?

Although laser epilation may seem like a cosmetic procedure, it is actually a medical procedure and requires expertise. For this reason, it is very important for the patient to be evaluated by a doctor before the procedure. Here are the reasons:

1. Detection of Health Problems

A doctor's examination before laser epilation plays a critical role in detecting a serious underlying health problem:

Endocrine Problems: Hair growth may be a symptom of a hormonal disorder.
Paraneoplastic Syndromes: Some types of cancer may have symptoms such as hair growth on the skin.
Photosensitivity and Koebnerization: Some diseases or medications may cause sensitivity or spots on the skin after laser.
The doctor also asks if the patient has a history of hypertrophic scars or keloids in the past and adjusts the laser dose accordingly. If conditions such as herpes or skin infections are detected, the procedure is postponed until after treatment.

2. Patient Information and Suitability Assessment

It is the responsibility of a physician to determine whether a patient is suitable for laser hair removal and to set realistic expectations:

Patient Questions: The physician should answer all the patient's questions and provide detailed information about the procedure.
Device and Dose Selection: Determining the appropriate laser device and energy requires expertise.


3. Legal Regulations and Application

In Türkiye, it is regulated by law that laser hair removal should only be performed by doctors. However, there are complications in practice:

Legal Status: Current regulations state that laser hair removal can only be performed by a doctor. Otherwise, legal action will be initiated.
IPL Use: IPL devices (photoepilation) work in a similar way to lasers and can cause the same complications. With a regulation change made in 2012, the use of these devices in beauty salons without a doctor's supervision was permitted. This regulation has been brought to court by the Turkish Dermatology Association and the result is awaited.
As a result, laser hair removal should definitely be performed in a clinic with a doctor.
Laser hair removal should be planned and applied by a doctor in accordance with the patient's health condition and skin structure. The doctor must evaluate the patient, inform him/her and determine all precautions to be taken during the procedure. However, trained healthcare personnel can perform this procedure under the doctor's instructions and supervision.

It should not be forgotten that laser hair removal is not just a beauty treatment, but a medical procedure that can cause serious health problems if not done correctly.