Managing Partner
You may be able to sue if a cosmetic treatment caused chemical burns that resulted in scarring, lasting skin damage, or ongoing pain. These injuries are more common than many people realize, especially with services like hair relaxers, chemical peels, laser treatments, and skin-lightening procedures, all of which involve powerful substances or devices. Liability often comes down to whether a provider used an unsafe product, failed to warn you about known risks, or performed the treatment in a way that put your safety at risk.
What Counts as a Cosmetic Chemical Burn?
A cosmetic chemical burn occurs when harsh chemicals or heat damage the skin beyond the expected level of irritation. These injuries can range from blistering and discoloration to permanent scarring or nerve damage.
Common sources include:
- Hair relaxers or dyes that are left on too long or improperly mixed
- Chemical peels applied at unsafe concentrations
- Laser or IPL treatments set to incorrect levels
- Waxing or depilatory creams used on sensitive or compromised skin
- Cosmetic products contaminated or improperly formulated
When burns go beyond temporary redness and healing does not occur as expected, legal options may be considered.
When a Salon, Spa, or Provider May Be Liable
Cosmetic professionals owe clients a duty to act with reasonable care. In California, this means following accepted industry practices and adjusting treatments based on your skin type, medical history, and prior reactions.
You may have a claim for professional negligence if a provider:
- Used a product or device incorrectly
- Ignored contraindications such as sensitive skin or recent procedures
- Failed to perform a patch test when appropriate
- Left chemicals on your skin longer than recommended
- Continued a treatment after you reported burning or pain
Liability does not require intent. A preventable mistake can be enough.
Product Liability for Defective Cosmetic Products
Some chemical burn cases involve defective or unreasonably dangerous products rather than provider error. California product liability law allows injured consumers to pursue claims against manufacturers and distributors.
This may apply if a product was:
- Improperly formulated or contaminated
- Labeled with inadequate instructions
- Sold without adequate warnings about burn risks
- Unsafe even when used as directed
In these cases, you do not need to prove negligence. It is enough to show that the product was defective and caused your injury.
Failure to Warn and Informed Consent Issues
Even when a treatment is performed correctly, you have the right to be warned of material risks. Providers must give you enough information to make an informed decision.
A failure-to-warn claim may arise if:
- Risks of chemical burns were downplayed or omitted
- Aftercare instructions were unclear or missing
- You were not told how to recognize early signs of injury
- Consent forms were rushed, misleading, or incomplete
When you are not properly informed, your consent may not be legally valid.
Proving Causation in Cosmetic Burn Cases
One of the most contested issues is proving that the cosmetic treatment caused your injury. This often requires medical documentation and a clear timeline.
Helpful evidence may include:
- Photos of the burn and healing process
- Dermatology or burn-specialist records
- Ingredient lists and product packaging
- Salon records and consent forms
- Statements from witnesses or staff
We focus on showing how the treatment directly led to your injuries, not just that a bad outcome occurred.
Damages Available for Chemical Burn Injuries
Cosmetic burns can have lasting physical and emotional effects, especially when injuries are visible. Compensation may address both economic and non-economic losses.
Damages may include:
- Medical treatment and future care
- Scar revision or cosmetic procedures
- Lost income or reduced earning capacity
- Pain and physical discomfort
- Emotional distress related to disfigurement or altered appearance
Visible injuries can affect confidence, work, and daily interactions. California law recognizes these harms.
Time Limits for Filing a Cosmetic Burn Lawsuit in California
Most personal injury claims in California are subject to a two-year statute of limitations. However, timelines can vary depending on when the injury was discovered and who may be responsible.
Acting early helps preserve evidence and strengthens your position.
Take the Next Step After a Cosmetic Burn Injury
If a cosmetic treatment left you with burns, scarring, or lasting skin damage, you do not have to handle the legal process alone. At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, we help clients throughout California evaluate cosmetic injury claims and pursue accountability when harm could have been prevented.
If you are dealing with the physical or emotional effects of a chemical burn, contact us to talk through your options and next steps.