The invention of the laser has led to many advancements in the electronic and medical device industries. In the aesthetic arena, new and improved lasers are entering the market every few months. This rapid development is leaving the classification criterion to continually be redefined. Therefore, the following information is deemed to be a guideline and is not considered to be a definite and thorough description.

Aesthetic lasers that are used by med spas most often have low power outputs and are most commonly placed in the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Class 2 of lasers. Another organization is the Laser Institute of America (LIA). The majority of cosmetic lasers fall into the ANSI Class 3 or 4 categories with most surgical medical lasers being in Class 4. Those used to perform aesthetic laser treatments are most often classified as Class II or III medical devices.

Class 1

This class of lasers is considered not to pose any hazard when operated under and according to normal operating conditions. This category includes lasers which are completely enclosed such as CD players, fiber-optics systems, or laser printers. These devices that cannot have emissions exceeding the maximum permitted exposure (MPE) under any conditions are considered to be class 1 systems.

Still, problems can occur if the laser is outside of the enclosure.

The placement of hazard or warning labels are required for this class inside the unit or underneath cover panels where the person performing the repair can be adequately warned of a potential hazard.

Class 2a

Not many lasers qualify for this class of low-power, visible light lasers. Any laser in this class is considered to not pose a threat if the beam of light is directly viewed for periods of time less than 1000 seconds (about 16 minutes). Any visible light laser with a total output power less than 1 milliwatt, but greater than a few microwatts, may be class 2.

Class 2

These visible light lasers are intense enough that the cause the normal aversion response. (The aversion response is when the eyelids close, or the head moves in order to avoid the light.)

Class 3a

Class of lasers that includes those emitting ultraviolet or infrared light as well as visible light. All devices within the Class 1 AEL (Allowed Exposure Level) with laser output between .18μm and 1mm fall in this class. Common Laser pointers that are readily available are class 3a laser devices.

Class 3b Lasers

This class includes the same spectrum as class 3a, but increases the output level to that of Class 2 AEL.

Class 4 Lasers

These lasers includes any power output that exceeds the Class 2 AEL. Almost every laser that produces more than 0.5 watts is in this class.

As an aesthetician, you are now crossing the line from treating clients to treating patients. All the components of aesthetic care play an even more important role when designing a post-procedure treatment plan for the patient who just underwent a deep chemical peel for acne scarring. Or, the Rosacea patient who just completed her first intense pulse light treatment. It’s important to remember that you are the skin care expert in your recommendations of skin care products and regimens to your clients. However, you are also a critical adjunct to the physician who has planned an aggressive therapy treatment for his patient.

Medical Spa MD is a medspa community of Plastic Surgeons, Cosmetic Dermatologists, and Aesthetic Physicians with more than 3,500 physician members. Medical Spa MD offers medical esthetician training manuals and offers information on non-surgical cosmetic medical technologies and treatments.