Laser hair removal is a sought out treatment by many. During this treatment, powerful lights are aimed at the hair, and when absorbed the hair follicle is destroyed and slowed down for future growth. While the hair removal can be beneficial, there are possible dangers from it. The light rays can cause skin burns, scars and pain. A UCLA study published in JAMA Dermatology states, “Laser hair therapy is safe in the right hands when it’s done by a reputable dermatologist, as opposed to a random mede-spa employee.” Beware of this treatment when offered in spas.
Body wrap treatments include being wrapped in plastic and other constricting materials. The goal is to detox the skin, open pores and assist with weight loss. This treatment is generally safe, but when left on too long, one can suffer from dehydration and overheating. Using this treatment as a weight loss assistant only results in the loss of water weight.
Gel manicures are desired by many because of their prolonged ability to shine and remain chip-free. Gel manicures are achieved by using ultraviolet light rays to harden and seal the polish. There are concerns that the ultraviolet light rays can pose a danger to one’s hand. Although a 2014 study published in JAMA Dermatology indicates that the level of UVA exposure likely isn’t enough to significantly increase the risk of skin cancer, it doesn’t hurt to take some extra some extra precautions. Dr. Hope Ricciotti, M.D., and Hye-Chun Hur, M.D., M.P.H. of Harvard Women’s Health Watch recommend using waterproof sunscreen on your hands pre-manicure or wearing a pair of gloves with the fingertips cut off.
Facials are a popular treatment given in most spas. People seek these facials because of their effects, such as cleaning out pores, moisturizing the skin and brightening the complexion. Facials are performed with products that can burn the skin if not used correctly. A specific form of skin facials are chemical peels. These peels use strong chemicals in order to treat the skin. A clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University Medical Center, Nia Terezakis, MD, has treated patients that come in with whiteness around their mouth after getting skin peels. These peels can permanently damage the pigment of the skin. Dr. Terezakis states, “There’s nothing in the world that will put the color back in your skin after that.” Skin infections can also arise as a result of these burns. Make sure you have a thorough consultation before the facial.
Brazilian waxes are another method of hair removal. The wax is applied to the skin, and when the wax is removed it rips the hair out of the follicle. When the hair is ripped out of the skin, bacteria can get into the skin, leading to fungal, bacterial and viral infections. Another risk is the possibility of skin burns from the hot wax.
Pedicures expose clients to an array dangers. While pedicures leave feet clean and clipped, if done with unsterile utensils the feet can suffer from viral infections, such as warts. They are also exposed to bacterial infections as a result of ingrown toenails and excessive filing. The sanitation practices vary between salons, so be sure to check the practices.
Yes, spas offer treatments that many find relaxing, but are they worth the possible dangers you may face? These dangers can be combatted if products and procedures are done properly, and if sanitation protocols are followed. A CNN Health report states that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has a limited ability to control the cosmetic ingredients that companies use in their products, therefore, making it difficult for clients to know what steps and products spa employees should use. The best way a client can be sure that they are safe is by verifying with employees that their products are safe and keeping an eye out for that anything that seems fishy.