5 Common Salon Treatments That Can Cause Burn Injuries 

For many of us, visiting the salon is a cherished ritual. It’s a time to relax, pamper ourselves, and leave feeling rejuvenated and beautiful. However, amidst the soothing scents and calming ambiance, salons can pose unexpected dangers. Burn injuries, although less talked about, are surprisingly common at salons and can turn what should have been a blissful experience into a painful ordeal.

At Brassfield & Krueger, we’ve encountered countless salon-related injuries in our 75 years of personal injury law experience. Burn injuries rank among some of the most severe injuries, with lasting physical and emotional effects. We want you to be aware of the risks so you can make informed decisions and protect yourself during your next visit to the salon.

Below, we’ll discuss five common salon treatments that can cause burns, how to identify when legal action is necessary, and how to protect yourself.

Treatments That Can Cause Burn Injuries

1. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are popular for achieving smooth, glowing skin, but they come with risks if performed improperly. The treatment involves applying chemical solutions to your face, which then exfoliate and peel away layers of skin. If these chemicals are left on for too long or used in excessive concentrations, chemical burns can result. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, or blistering.

Improper training or lack of qualifications in salon staff frequently contributes to these accidents. If you’re considering a chemical peel, ensure the technician is licensed and uses reputable products.

2. Hair Straightening Treatments

Treatments like keratin or chemical relaxers promise silky, straight hair but involve harsh chemicals and high heat. These treatments can cause burns to both the scalp and skin if applied carelessly. For example, direct contact between the relaxing chemicals and your scalp can result in chemical burns, while improper use of heated tools can cause thermal burns.

Ask your stylist about their training and the safety and strength of the products being used. Checking reviews of the salon beforehand also helps gauge their level of professionalism.

3. Tanning Beds

Tanning beds often pose a significant risk of burns due to overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged use or improperly calibrated equipment can leave clients with second-degree burns that go beyond mere redness, leading to painful blisters and even permanent skin damage.

It’s also worth noting the long-term damage UV burns can cause, such as an increased risk of skin cancer. Always use tanning beds cautiously, never exceed recommended time limits, and look into safer alternatives.

4. Waxing

Waxing is a go-to treatment for smooth skin, but the process involves heated wax, which can become dangerous if overheated or applied too aggressively. Wax that is too hot can lead to painful burns on sensitive areas of the skin.

Additionally, improper removal techniques can damage the skin, leaving it raw or vulnerable to burn-like symptoms. Be sure your esthetician checks the wax temperature before beginning and informs you if they’re using a patch test for safety.

5. Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is another treatment that presents a burn risk if not performed by a properly trained professional. This process uses concentrated beams of light designed to destroy hair follicles. However, if the wrong settings are used or safety protocols are ignored, clients may suffer burns, discoloration, or even scarring.

Ensure the technician is certified and that the equipment is FDA-approved. It’s also important to inform the technician about your skin sensitivity before beginning the treatment.

When Should You Take Legal Action for a Salon Burn?

Taking legal action against a salon for a burn can be a daunting decision to make. However, if you have suffered from a burn due to negligence or improper treatment at a salon, it is important to consider taking legal action in order to protect your rights and seek compensation for any damages.

Some factors to consider when deciding whether or not to take legal action include the severity of the burn, the extent of any physical or emotional damage, and the level of responsibility held by the salon. If you have experienced extensive burns that require medical attention or have caused scarring or long-term effects on your appearance, it may be necessary to seek legal recourse in order to cover medical expenses and potential future costs related to the injury.

What Should You Do if You’ve Been Burned?

If you have been burned by a hair salon or other beauty establishment, there are a few steps you should take to ensure your safety and protect your rights.

1. Seek Medical Attention

The first step after sustaining a burn is to seek medical attention. Even if the burn appears minor, it is important to have it properly treated and documented by a medical professional. This can also serve as evidence in case legal action needs to be taken.

2. Document the Burn

Take photos of your burn from different angles and keep track of any progress or changes in the injury. It is also helpful to document any pain or discomfort you are experiencing as a result of the burn.

3. Contact the Salon or Spa

If you sustained a burn at a salon or spa, it is important to contact them immediately. They may have their own protocol for handling injuries and may need to file an incident report.

4. Seek Legal Advice

If the burn was caused by negligence or improper use of equipment at the salon or spa, it is important to seek legal advice. A lawyer focusing on personal injury cases can help determine if you have a case and guide you through the legal process.

Protect Yourself and Know Your Rights

Your salon experience should leave you feeling refreshed and confident—not burdened by preventable injuries. If you’ve been burned during a salon treatment, remember that you have options. The attorneys at Brassfield & Krueger have decades of experience helping clients who’ve faced similar situations. Don’t wait in silence. Reach out to us today for a free consultation, and allow us to help you get the justice you deserve.