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Non-surgical cosmetic procedures in Dubai are regulated by the Dubai Health Authority or DHA. 

In general, non-surgical cosmetic procedures are defined as “elective techniques” which are focused on “enhancing a patient’s appearance”, using “non-invasive” or “minimally invasive” procedures. 

• Some examples of non-surgical cosmetic procedures, subject to the DHA regulations include: 
  • Botox
  • Laser and IPL hair removal 
  • Chemical peels 
  • Face fillers
  • Micro-needling 
  • Body shaping treatments 
  • Lymphatic drainage 
  • Cryotherapy, as well as
  • Piercings and
  • Tattoos

Importantly, most non-surgical cosmetic procedures must be performed: 1) in DHA-licensed clinical health facilities, And, depending on the procedure, 2) must be performed by the appropriate health professionals, who are authorizedto perform those kinds of procedures. 

For example, there are certain procedures, which only dermatologists and plastic surgeons can conduct. And, there are some procedures which beauty therapists are authorized to perform. 

The specific requirements and guidelines are set out, in extensive detail, in the DHA’s Standards for Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures, Version 2, which was issued in June 2022, and has been effective as of August 2022.

Laser hair removal and IPL (or intensive pulse light) hair removal treatment, in Dubai, is strictly regulated. The regulating authority over such treatment is the Dubai Health Authority, or DHA.

As a starting point, all laser and IPL hair removal procedures must be performed in DHA-licensed health facilities.  Furthermore, health professionals performing hair laser procedures must have 1) a separate DHA license and 2) special training. 

·         Also, only certain health professionals are authorized to perform hair laser removal and IPL, and they are: 

o    Dermatologists

o    Plastic surgeons, as well as

o    Nurses, beauty therapists and consultants, who carry a DHA “laser technician” license.

There are also specific requirements and standards that every health facility, offering laser therapy, must fulfil. Such as, 1) minimum floor area, 2) appropriate layout and spacing, and 3) a series of safety and protective measures. 

All of these requirements and more are set out, in detail, in the recently updated DHA’s Standards for Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures, Version 2, which became effective in August of 2022. And, in particular, Appendix 5.

Therefore, if you are considering any hair laser treatment, keep these regulations in mind and only seek treatment at properly licensed facilities, in order to protect yourself.