How South Africa’s laser regulations could impact skin resurfacing in your clinic
What do South Africa’s laser regulations mean for clinics offering skin resurfacing?
Laser-based aesthetic treatments continue to play an important role in modern skin clinics, from pigmentation and vascular concerns to acne scarring, textural irregularities and skin rejuvenation. However, as laser technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, clinics also need to pay close attention to the regulatory and safety requirements surrounding its use.
In South Africa, laser regulation falls within the broader framework administered by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), including its Radiation Control unit. Under the Hazardous Substances Act, 1973, a licence is required for the use of certain listed electronic products, including Class 3B and Class 4 lasers. SAHPRA also maintains separate processes for medical and non-medical laser use.
This is particularly relevant for aesthetic clinics using higher-powered laser systems for procedures such as skin resurfacing.
In September 2026, SAHPRA published an updated Guideline for Use Licence Applications and the Requirements for the Safe Use of Class 3B and Class 4 Lasers or Laser Systems. The guideline provides applicants with information on licensing and the safe use of these laser systems, making it a useful point of reference for clinics reviewing their current laser operations.
For clinic owners, the issue is therefore not simply which laser produces the strongest results. It is also whether the technology, premises, operator training, safety procedures and licensing arrangements are appropriate for the way the device is being used.
Ablative lasers and skin resurfacing
Ablative lasers such as CO₂ systems have long been used for more intensive skin resurfacing.
These treatments intentionally remove or vaporise controlled layers of the skin and can be used to address concerns including significant textural irregularities, acne scarring, photo-ageing and certain lines and wrinkles. Because the treatment creates a controlled injury to the skin, it can involve more downtime and requires careful patient assessment, treatment planning and post-treatment care.
The higher energy levels associated with many ablative systems also make laser safety an important consideration.
South Africa’s requirements for Class 3B and Class 4 lasers include measures designed to control hazards to patients, operators and others who may be exposed to the laser. SAHPRA’s safety requirements provide for the designation of a Laser Safety Officer (LSO), with responsibility for areas including hazard evaluation, control measures, protective equipment, facility and equipment approval, safety audits and training.
For clinics offering resurfacing, this means laser safety should be treated as part of the clinical infrastructure rather than as an administrative requirement.
Non-ablative laser resurfacing
Alongside ablative resurfacing, non-ablative fractional laser technologies have become an increasingly important option for clinics looking to provide skin remodelling with less disruption to the skin’s surface.
Fractional technologies can deliver laser energy into selected microscopic treatment zones, stimulating a wound-healing response and collagen remodelling while leaving surrounding tissue intact.
Different wavelengths can be selected according to the concern being treated. For example, 1550nm fractional technology is commonly used to target deeper dermal structures and can be incorporated into treatment plans for concerns such as acne scarring, fine lines and uneven texture. Other wavelengths, including 1927nm, are used more superficially and can be useful when pigmentation, sun damage and overall skin quality are the primary concerns.
For South African clinics, these technologies can offer another approach to skin rejuvenation, particularly for patients who may not want the downtime associated with more aggressive ablative resurfacing.
However, the fact that a treatment is described as "non-ablative" does not automatically mean that regulatory or safety requirements do not apply. The classification of the individual laser system remains important, and clinics should establish the classification and licensing requirements for the specific device they operate.
SAHPRA states that licences for use are required for Class 3B and Class 4 laser devices, with the licensing process intended to support protection of the patient, operator and general public from excessive exposure.
Choosing between ablative and non-ablative technologies
The decision between ablative and non-ablative resurfacing should not be based on regulation alone.
Each technology has different characteristics, treatment parameters, recovery requirements and potential applications. The appropriate choice depends on factors such as the patient's concerns, skin characteristics, treatment objectives, contraindications, expected downtime and the practitioner's training and competence.
For clinics, however, the regulatory requirements should form part of that decision-making process.
Before introducing a new laser platform or expanding an existing treatment menu, clinics should establish:
What laser classification does the device fall under?
Does the device require a SAHPRA licence for use?
Is the specific device appropriately licensed or authorised for its intended use?
Are the clinic's premises and treatment area suitable for the laser system?
Has a Laser Safety Officer been designated where required?
Are appropriate protective eyewear and other safety measures in place?
Have staff received appropriate training for the specific device?
Are standard operating procedures documented and approved?
Are maintenance, servicing and safety checks being recorded?
Are patient assessment, consent and aftercare protocols appropriate for the treatment?
SAHPRA also notes that unlicensed listed electronic products may be seized, highlighting the importance of confirming the regulatory status of equipment before purchasing or introducing a device into clinical practice.
Regulation and practitioner competence
Laser safety is only one part of the wider professional responsibility involved in aesthetic treatments.
For registered health practitioners, the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) states that practitioners should perform professional acts for which they are adequately educated, trained and sufficiently experienced, and that practice should take place under proper conditions and in appropriate surroundings. The HPCSA also states that the introduction of new interventions within a practitioner's professional scope requires appropriate further training as approved by the relevant Board.
This distinction is important for clinics investing in new technologies. Completing a supplier training course should not automatically be viewed as replacing the practitioner's broader professional responsibilities, scope of practice or competency requirements.
Training should instead be considered alongside the regulatory classification of the device, the practitioner's professional scope and the clinical requirements of the treatment being provided.
What should South African clinics do now?
The latest SAHPRA laser guidance provides a useful opportunity for clinics to review their current systems rather than waiting for a compliance issue to arise.
For clinics already offering laser resurfacing, this could mean checking that licensing documentation is current, confirming the classification of every laser system, reviewing laser safety procedures and ensuring that staff training and treatment protocols are properly documented.
For clinics considering investing in a new CO₂, fractional or other high-powered laser system, regulatory compliance should form part of the purchasing decision from the beginning.
The key question is not simply whether a particular technology can deliver impressive skin results. It is whether the clinic has the appropriate equipment, licensing, safety infrastructure, training and clinical protocols to use that technology responsibly.
As aesthetic technology continues to develop in South Africa, clinics that take a proactive approach to laser safety and compliance will be better positioned to incorporate new treatment modalities while maintaining appropriate standards of patient care.
Important: Regulatory requirements can depend on the specific laser classification, device, intended use and professional circumstances. Clinics should confirm the current requirements directly with SAHPRA and, where relevant, their professional regulatory body before introducing or changing laser treatments.
Comments