Can a pregnant woman be a laser hair removal technician?

Question

Hi I'm not sure if I am pregnant yet however I was wondering if performing laser hair removal as on my clients would harm the baby?

Jennifer Reichel, MD · Answer

I think you can safely perform laser hair treatments on patients while you are pregnant. I wouldn't recommend performing it on pregnant women, however. I performed many many laser treatments (not hair removal, but other ones) while pregnant - so if I use the "what would I do" method to answer your question, I think you are safe.

Brian S. Biesman, MD · Answer

While there are of course no scientific studies, based on everything we know about  lasers used for aesthetic treatments the operator  should be able to use a laser safely if she is pregnant.  I would certainly discuss this with you're supervising physician.  As a general rule, I do not perform Aestheticlaser treatments (Or administer injections) to patients who are pregnant.However, as an operator you should be safe.

Sheryl D. Clark, MD, FAAD · Answer

As a technician, you are not treating your own skin with laser light; your skin will only be exposed to scattered rays at much lower intensities than what the patient experiences. In any case, laser light can only penetrate millimeters into your skin and certainly cannot reach any vital structures. There should not be any concerns beyond the usual precautions, such as wearing appropriate goggles and avoiding sources of fire and reflected laser light.  However, the definitive answer should come from your obstetrician.

Christopher Dannaker, DO, MPH, FAAD · Answer

In most states such as California, only physicians, or nurses, nurse practitioners and physicians assistants, under the supervision of a supervising physician may use medical lasers.  Your physician supervisor should review all applicable OSHA laws as well as state mandates for determining who may legally operate a medical device in your location or country.

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear toktamf,

In general, all laser hair removal devices emit a low-level
radiofrequency field.  Although it has
never been proven that low-level radiofrequency fields will harm a foetus, as a
young expectant mother, to try and minimize exposure to these types of
electromagnetic radiation is probably a good idea.  One option, if this is a job that you love
and still require, is to wear a lead apron, which will shield you from electromagnetic
radiation.  These, however, are quite
bulky and heavy, but will certainly provide the necessary protection.  One can generally get these types of aprons
from medical supply stores and stores that supply hospitals.  I would suggest Googling “x-ray protective
lead aprons for sale”.  This may allow
you to maintain a job that you might very well like.

Best of luck as a young mother and I hope this information
has been of some assistance.  For more
information, please review the link below.

Sincerely,

R. Stephen Mulholland, M.D.

Certified Plastic Surgeon

Yorkville, Toronto

Can a pregnant woman be a laser hair removal technician?

Answers (5)

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