High-powered devices like picosecond lasers are incredible tools – when used safely. They can lighten tattoos, rejuvenate skin, reduce scarring, and boost confidence. But these machines are not toys. They require highly trained, experienced skin specialists to operate them safely and responsibly.
Many clients look for cost, before-and-after photos, or popular brand name devices… but qualifications should be the very first question you ask.
What Happens When The Wrong Person Uses A Laser?
Pushing treatments too hard, too fast can:
Tattoo ink can contain carcinogenic substances. Your body needs time to filter out broken-down ink particles and toxins safely. That’s why I believe in:
Slow, cautious, skin-kind treatment using minimal settings for maximum safety.
Good results take time. Your health matters more than rushing.
Laser practitioners should have Ofqual-regulated qualifications that align with the treatments they offer. Here’s what to look for:
And it doesn’t stop there…
Essential Professional Requirements
| Requirement | Why it matters |
| Core of Knowledge (CoK) | Mandatory laser safety training — refreshed every 5 years |
| Insurance | Protects you and the practitioner — only issued with correct qualifications |
| Local Authority Licensing | Many councils (especially in cities like London) require a Special Treatment Licence |
| Laser Protection Advisor (LPA) guidance | Ensures safe and compliant working practices through “Local Rules” |
While the cosmetic industry in England isn’t fully regulated yet, insurance companies are and they insist on these standards for a reason. So always check your therapist is insured (and that’s YOUR therapist – not just the clinic!)
Unqualified use of Class 3B or Class 4 lasers (like the PicoSure) can cause serious harm.
Don’t be shy! — Responsible professionals will happily show you proof!
✔️ Is YOUR insurance active and does it explicitly cover this treatment?
✔️ Do YOU hold Ofqual-regulated qualifications for this treatment? (If they don’t then the insurance is likely to be void!)
✔️ Is your therapist and/or clinic licensed by the local council (if applicable)?
✔️ You should always have a consultation where you should be asked to complete forms that ask information about your health, medical history and information about your tattoo.
✔️ You should always have a patch test, when the therapist tests the treatment in a very small area to see how your skin reacts and what settings to use. Every time the settings change a patch test should be performed, also after the machine has been serviced or a new machine is used. You should have a patch test if you experience any changes with your skin, medication or lifestyle, also if it has been more than 6 months since your last treatment.
⚠️ Look closely! Some clinics display certificates, but they may belong to another person so check the name! As someone else may actually perform your treatment!
Ask who will do your treatments, if there are different therapists working at the clinic are they all trained and qualified or is there only one qualified and the others work under them? (If so their insurance isn’t valid!)
You deserve transparency. You deserve safety.
In Summary
✔ Qualifications matter — for your skin, your health, and your long-term results
✔ Good laser practitioners take a slow and steady approach
✔ Legal compliance, safety standards and insurance should always be in place
✔️ Power and trauma don’t mean you get the best long term results
Your body is precious. Don’t hand it to anyone who hasn’t earned that responsibility.
Keep your eyes peeled for my next posts:
✨ The importance of regularly serviced lasers — and how this affects results
✨ Why patch testing isn’t optional — it’s essential!
Sign up to my mailing list to ensure you receive all updates, my last minute booking availability, new products and treatments, offers and special discounts.
Happy shopping!