A Bengaluru consumer commission has directed a beauty clinic to pay Rs 1.10 lakh in damages and litigation costs to a woman who alleged that she suffered facial burns after a Rs 1,100 laser hair removal session. The commission held that cosmetic service providers must assess a customer’s skin condition, allergies and potential risks before treatment.

President K Shivaram and members Rekha Sayannavar and Suma Anilkumar of the III Additional Bengaluru Urban District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission were hearing a complaint against the clinic alleging that the technician continued with the treatment despite the woman reporting an intense burning sensation, leaving her with painful wounds, skin darkening and swelling that affected her confidence and professional life.

“The complainant is a young woman, the very purpose for which she had approached opposite party (clinic) was to improve and maintain her appearance and skin condition .…