Starting November 1, 2024, the Oklahoma Laser Hair Act will bring significant changes to the medical spa industry in Oklahoma.  This legislation aims to enhance patient safety and ensure that these procedures are conducted by properly trained and qualified professionals. 

It specifically says, “A person shall not perform or attempt to perform laser hair removal unless the person holds the appropriate health professional license or certificate as defined in Section 2 of this act. “Laser hair removal” means the use of a class three or class four laser light-based device approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to perform a non-ablative hair removal procedure that does not remove the epidermis. Laser hair removal does not include electrolysis as defined in Section 536.2 of Title 59 of the Oklahoma Statutes;” 

What’s New Under the Oklahoma Laser Hair Act 2024?

One of the most important aspects of this act is the restriction on who is permitted to perform procedures using a class three or class four laser light device. Under the new regulations:

• Medical Assistants and Aestheticians: MAs and aestheticians will no longer be authorized to operate laser equipment for hair removal. There are people working to get the law changed to allow aestheticians to be able to do it with the 40 hours of training, but as of today (October 30, 2024) they are not allowed. 
• Qualified Professionals: The act specifies that only the following individuals may perform these procedures:
  • Doctors: Licensed physicians (MDs and DOs) will remain fully qualified to conduct laser hair removal.
  • Mid-level Practitioners: Advanced Practitioner Registered Nurse (APRPs) and physician assistants (PAs) can perform these procedures if they have received the appropriate 40 hours of laser practitioner training and certification.
  • Registered Nurses (RNs): RNs who have specialized training in laser technology are permitted to perform these procedures if they have received the appropriate 40 hours of laser practitioner training and certification.
  • Nurse Injectors: These professionals will also have the authority to perform these procedures if they have received the appropriate 40 hours of laser practitioner training and certification.

Why Is This Legislation Important?

The Oklahoma Laser Hair Act 2024 aims to increase the standard of care in the cosmetic industry. By restricting laser procedures to licensed professionals, the state seeks to reduce risks associated with improper use, such as burns, scarring, or unsatisfactory results. This move is designed to protect consumers and improve trust in cosmetic services.

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

For those considering laser hair removal, the new regulations are a positive development. Patients can expect a higher standard of care, as only trained and certified professionals will be allowed to perform these procedures.

Consumers should take the following steps:

• Verify Credentials: When seeking treatment, always check the qualifications of the healthcare professional.
• Ask About Training: Inquire about their specific training in laser technologies to ensure they meet the state’s standards.

Conclusion

The Oklahoma Laser Hair Act 2024 represents a significant shift in how laser hair removal is regulated in the state of Oklahoma. By ensuring that only qualified professionals perform these procedures, Oklahoma is prioritizing patient safety and care quality. As the law takes effect, it’s essential for both consumers and providers to understand these changes and their implications for the industry.

Sources: 

https://www.okmedicalboard.org/download/2374/Laser_Hair_Removal_Act.pdf

http://www.okmedicalboard.org/download/510/Approved_Med_Spa_Guidelines_11_7_08.pdf