Gentlelase: A More Effective Means of Hair Removal

Until 1995, when the laser was first approved by the FDA, the best option for long term hair removal was electrolysis, a painful and tedious procedure which required numerous sessions at the doctor’s office and put patients at risk for acne, infection and skin discoloration. Although several different types of lasers are currently being used by dermatologists and plastic surgeons, it is Candela Corp.’ s Gentlelase® laser, approved in 1999 by the FDA and upgraded to the Gentlelase Plus in 2000, that is considered to be the head of the pack. According to the practitioners at PermaLaser Clinic, a state of the art Canadian laser and aesthetic center, “After testing many of the laser units currently available, our office along with the Rocky Mountain Laser Clinic, has found that Alexandrite laser is the only truly effective laser technology. The Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) makes Candela's Gentlelase the leader among Alexandrite lasers.”

Not unlike other laser hair removal techniques, the Gentlelase laser works by heating and destroying the hair bulb. However, unlike other treatments, there is minimal risk for skin discoloration resulting from the Gentlelase procedure. This is due to Candela Corp.’s innovative Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD). The DCD emits a cryogen spray during the Gentlelase procedure, lowering the temperature of the skin and protecting the pigment. As an added benefit, the DCD’s cooling action decreases the pain which a patient may feel during the procedure.

A typical Gentlelase treatment can take anywhere from 10 minutes to one hour depending upon the size of the area being treated. It is considered to be a relatively painless, ‘lunchtime’ treatment requiring no anesthetic.

The price of a series of Gentlelase treatments can vary drastically from person to person. However, according to the Consumer Guide to Laser Hair Removal,“experienced laser centers, which have developed expertise in laser hair removal, generally average about $500 per treatment session, with an average of four treatment sessions initially recommended. Large areas, such as the entire back, or the entire legs, cost considerably more than this. Small areas, such as the upper lip, can be less. Individual consultation with the laser center is necessary to obtain exact pricing.” After a series of treatments most people can expect one to two years delay of hair regrowth as well as a minimization of the amount of hair once it does regrow.

Although there seems to be no truly permanent solution to our problems of unwanted hair, Gentlelase does seem to be a good option. If you would like more information, contact your dermatologist or laser practitioner.