Cosmetic procedures are widely available in salons, spas and walk-in clinics. However, physicians are rarely on site for these treatments and the ASDS warns consumers that simple procedures like hair removals or skin treatments can pose serious health risks and complications, especially when performed by inexperienced or unqualified people.

The ASDS also cautions people with darker, ethnic skin tones to be aware that their skin may react differently to the same cosmetic procedures performed on lighter skin tones. There may be differences in skin tone, texture and facial characteristics that produce widely different results. According to Dr. Girish S. Munavalli, an ASDS member, nearly 20 percent of all cosmetic procedures are performed on ethnically diverse groups.

People with darker skin are advised to ask for the credential of the person performing the procedure and ask whether he or she has had experience conducting the procedure on darker skin tones and if there were complications. Patients should also ask that a skin test be conducted near the area of the skin where the procedure is planned. This may indicate whether there will be an allergic reaction of any kind.

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