Abstract
In Gauteng, South Africa, aesthetic treatments, such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and laser treatments have grown in prevalence and have also gained popularity worldwide. However, the use of IPL and laser devices are not governed by any legislation or licensing, making IPL and laser machines in South Africa available to non-medical fields of practice, such as the beauty sector and also to Somatologists. Despite the lack of legislation, IPL and laser treatments remain popular with the public.
Additionally, the public’s perception is that IPL and laser treatments are convenient and less painful when compared to the more traditional hair removal methods, such as waxing, tweezing and threading. Whilst IPL and laser treatments are used for skin rejuvenation, they are considered quicker and are also recommended to be used in conjunction with certain skin products for better results, as opposed to just being a treatment alone, to treat various skin imperfections. However, the public is unaware of the importance of the protocol that guides the operation of these IPL and laser devices to prevent unwanted adverse effects that can occur from not adhering to these IPL and laser protocol guidelines.
The purpose of this study was to establish if IPL and laser protocol guidelines are being adhered to by Somatologists in Gauteng, South Africa. The study made use of a quantitative exploratory, descriptive research design that included semi-structured questionnaires that were handed out to Somatologists who operate IPL and laser devices.
The study concluded that there was a lack of adherence to the IPL and laser protocol guidelines by Somatologists who perform the IPL and laser treatments. Other aspects considered in this study, included minimum training time on the devices and the lack of attending IPL and laser workshops to consistently upgrade knowledge and skills was also evident.
M.Tech. (Somatology)