UK Society of Cosmetic Scientists to meet over light-based cosmetic device safety

The UK Society of Cosmetic Scientists (SCS) is due to meet on January 10 to discuss the safety of light-based cosmetic devices, widely used in hair removal and skin rejuvenation therapies.

Main concerns stem from current regulations permitting the devices to be sold over-the-counter to consumers without the need for a prescription.

The SCS said in a statement: “Although current professional laser and intense light safety standards provide a basic frame of reference for manufacturers, currently no specific standards exist for home-use laser and intense pulsed light devices and it is unlikely that any such standard will be available before the end of 2013.”

The agenda for the meeting includes looking at how Europe is tightening regulations on the providers of light-based therapy, and how this might influence the home device market.

The SCS will also study how the US-based FDA regulates the sales and marketing of such equipment.