에스테틱 미용기기 사용의 법적·윤리적 문제와 부작용 실태에 관한 연구: 제도 개선 방안을 중심으로

Analysis of Legal and Ethical Issues and Adverse Effects Related to the Use of Aesthetic Beauty Devices - Focusing on Institutional Improvement Measures

This study investigated the use of aesthetic beauty devices, assessed practitioners' legal and ethical awareness, and analyzed demands for institutional improvements to establish data for safe, lawful operation. Survey results indicate that devices similar to medical equipment, such as high-frequency and ultrasound devices, are widely used in esthetic settings. However, approximately 64.1% of practitioners reported using these devices without certification from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. Additionally,66.1% indicated they had never received legal education regarding device use. Thus, there is a significant lack of training on relevant regulations and device-specific safety practices. Despite various reported side effects like burns and pigmentation, current responses are limited to hospital referrals or encouraging client revisits. This reveals a lack of systematic compensation standards and post-procedure response protocols. As a result, the current aftercare and consumer protection systems are insufficient. This study highlights the urgent need for legal revisions, structured educational programs, practical, device-specific guidelines, and a comprehensive post-procedure compensation system within the esthetic industry. The findings are expected to provide foundational data for institutional reviews of skin care device usage and the development of on-site esthetic practice guidelines.