5 Key points when using Consent Forms in Aesthetics

In the aesthetics industry, client consent forms are a crucial element in ensuring client safety, protecting practitioners, and maintaining legal and ethical standards. Whether it’s for procedures like Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments, or more involved surgical procedures, the use of a detailed consent form is indispensable. Here are the key points to consider when using consent forms in aesthetics:

1. Tailoring Consent Forms to the Procedure

Different aesthetic procedures carry varying degrees of risk, so it’s important that the consent form is tailored specifically to the treatment. A one-size-fits-all form may not address the unique considerations of different treatments. For example, a Botox treatment may require different disclosures compared to laser resurfacing or microneedling. Having procedure-specific consent forms ensures that all relevant information is covered.

2. Look at your Consent Form procedure

Do you go through the form with the client in person? It’s imperative to chat about the process of the treatment and also each section of the form to ensure they have a good understanding of what they’re signing and the risks involved. Not only does this ensure they know what the treatment they’re booking entails, but it also helps protect you in the event of a claim of negligence.

3. Clarity and Comprehensiveness

A consent form must be written in a clear and easily understandable language. Clients come from diverse backgrounds and may not have a medical or technical understanding of the procedure they are about to undergo. Avoid overly technical jargon, and make sure the terms of the treatment, its risks, and benefits are explained clearly. The goal is to ensure that the client understands exactly what they are agreeing to. A comprehensive consent form should include:

• Procedure details: Outline the nature of the treatment, its intended outcomes, and how it will be performed.
• Expected results: Clearly set expectations about what the treatment can and cannot achieve.
• Risks and side effects: Detail any potential risks, complications, or side effects, even if they are rare.
• Aftercare instructions: Provide post-treatment care guidelines to ensure the client is aware of how to support their recovery and minimize risks.

4. Visual and Media Consent

Practitioners often use before-and-after photos to demonstrate their work. Always include a separate section in the consent form where clients can give permission (or deny) the use of their images for marketing, educational purposes, or clinical records. Clients should have control over how their images are used, and their consent to share personal photos should be explicit.

5. Review and Update Consent Forms

Aesthetic treatments and technologies are constantly evolving. What may have been an acceptable risk a few years ago could now be outdated with the advent of new research, technologies, or safety protocols. Regularly review and update your consent forms to reflect any changes in procedures, equipment, or best practices.

Conclusion

By focusing on clarity, informed consent, and legal compliance, practitioners like yourself can build trust with clients while providing safe, high-quality aesthetic services AND protect yourself. Don’t forget that if you purchase an aesthetics policy with Insync Insurance, you get access to the FREE Faces consent app, which holds your consent forms digitally and is insurer-approved.