Seven steps for a successful laser burns claim

Laser and chemical peel burns from cosmetic treatments that have gone wrong can cause severe physical and psychological trauma. These cosmetic burns often lead to visible scarring and disfigurement on the face or other areas of the body. If these become permanent scars, it can be extremely traumatic for the survivors of burn injuries. 

Beyond the physical trauma, cosmetic laser burns can also have a lasting psychological impact. Seeing permanent scarring and disfigurement can cause depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. The outward signs of trauma are visible, making it difficult to move forward emotionally. Some clients have told us they are no longer able to recognise themselves due to the treatments. 

The impact of the traumatic injuries caused by defective cosmetic lasers and chemical peel burns should never be minimised. The physical and emotional scars can last a lifetime if the injured individuals do not receive the compensation they need to pay for their recovery, remedial treatment and ongoing care. 

If you have experienced a defective or negligent beauty treatment, we recommend you follow seven crucial steps to ensure you have all the relevant information and evidence to support a successful personal injury claim.

1. If you experience pain or discomfort, report it to your practitioner so the treatment can be stopped immediately, minimising the risk of ongoing injury.
2. Seek medical treatment immediately. Burns are serious injuries that usually require urgent medical care. Do not wait to see if the burn injury improves on its own. Sometimes we cannot see how a burn will develop long term, so do not leave it to chance. Quick treatment and appropriate aftercare can help minimise scarring.
3. Document your injuries by taking dated photos from all angles. These will be critical evidence for a claim if you choose to pursue legal action. Do not alter the photos in any way. Taking photos over a period of time can also show the progression of the affected areas and healing process. 
4. It is best to leave all communications with the beauty salon, along with settlement negotiations, to your lawyer. Do not sign any documents or agree to any compensation or refunds before you consult your lawyer. 
5. Keep a record of any financial losses resulting from the burn injury. This includes medical bills, costs, and lost wages. These can potentially be recovered as part of the cosmetic claims process. Take pictures of your receipts as these could fade over time. We would recommend keeping a diary to record your recovery, dates of medical appointments, the receipts and any notes that may be useful.
6. Ensure you continue to follow advice from medical professionals relating to aftercare instructions. Proper wound care can help minimise scarring. Follow all instructions and attend all the required appointments to demonstrate you're taking appropriate action to minimise your losses.
7.  If you decide to bring a claim, instruct a dedicated and experienced personal injury lawyer that has expertise in defective products and cosmetic treatment claims to ensure you recover the compensation and rehabilitation you deserve. 

Following these steps immediately after the injury can help ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your losses. Leigh Day has a dedicated team that specialises in defective products and beauty treatments. We understand these types of cases and can advise you if your claim has merit, maximising your chance of compensation if it does. 

If you have sustained burns or scars following laser hair removal treatment, you may be eligible to claim cosmetic compensation. Our specialist personal injury solicitors are ready to help you. Contact Tina Patel on 020 7650 1373 for a no obligation discussion to see if we can bring a no-win no-fee claim.