Laser Hair Removal

Introducing the Candela GentleLase® Laser…

Lasers have been used for many years for a variety of cosmetic medical procedures, including treatment of facial and leg veins, age spots and rejuvenating the skin on the face. The GentleLase® System, a revolutionary long-pulse, high-energy alexandrite laser, emits a gentle beam of light that passes through the skin to the hair follicle, where it is absorbed. The laser energy is transformed into heat, which destroys the hair follicle, leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. The skin is further protected during treatment by a Dynamic Cooling Device, where cryogen is sprayed onto the skin, cooling the upper layers and providing patients with increased comfort.

Conditions that can be treated by the GentleLase®

Traditional hair removal techniques, such as shaving, plucking, waxing and depilatory creams, provide only temporary relief. Until now, the only recognized way to remove hair permanently has been by electrolysis - which can be tedious, time-consuming and uncomfortable. The GentleLase® System safely removes unwanted body hair without damaging the delicate pores and structure of the skin.

What a treatment includes

Depending on the amount of hair treated, the procedure varies from patient to patient. Generally, the treatment will include wearing safety eyewear to protect the practitioner's and patient's eyes from the laser light during the procedure. A small handpiece will be used that touches the skin to deliver the laser light. A light spray of coolant onto the skin will be felt just before each laser pulse. A test area will be done prior to the entire treatment.

Most patients experience little discomfort at the treatment site because of the dynamic cooling device. The degree of discomfort varies with each person, depending on his/her pain threshold. Topical anesthesia can also be requested based on individual preference or tolerances. Be sure to discuss this with your practitioner in advance of the laser treatment. The treated area may become pink or red within 30 minutes of treatment; this may last from a few hours to several days and is relieved with the application of ice or cooling gels.

Precautions that should be taken before and after treatment

Avoid the sun 4-6 weeks before and after treatment or until your practitioner allows it. You must avoid electrolysis, plucking or waxing hair for 6 weeks prior to treatment. If you have had a history of perioral herpes, prophylactic antiviral therapy may be prescribed. If you have a dark skin type, bleaching cream may be started 4-6 weeks before treatment to optimize results. You should discuss your desired results and the improvements you expect to achieve with your practitioner. Together you can decide if your expectations will be met and if this laser treatment is the best option.

Number of treatments needed

Hair grows in cycles. The number of treatments required depends on your skin color and the coarseness of the hair. Everyone will require at least four treatments as the process is only effective on hair during the early growing cycle. Repeat sessions will be necessary to treat these follicles when they reenter the early growth phase.