At MiraMed and Day Spa, we’re excited to introduce one of the most advanced laser systems available: the Candela GentleMax Pro. This cutting-edge technology combines two highly effective laser wavelengths—ND: YAG (1064 nm): optimal for skin types IV-VI and Alexandrite (755 nm): optimal for skin types I-III — with an innovative cooling system, making it the ideal solution for many skin treatments.
What is the Candela GentleMax Pro?
The Candela GentleMax Pro is a versatile dual-wavelength laser system that brings together two powerful lasers:
- Alexandrite Laser (755 nm): This laser is known for its effectiveness in treating lighter skin tones.
- ND: YAG Laser (1064 nm): Ideal for treating darker skin tones, this wavelength penetrates deeper into the skin.
Combining these two wavelengths allows us to customize treatments to address specific skin concerns for all skin types—whether you have fair, medium, or darker skin tones.
The Cooling Advantage
One of the standout features of the GentleMax Pro is its advanced dynamic cooling device (DCD), which sprays cryogen gas onto the skin before the laser pulse. This cooling system ensures your comfort during treatments by cooling and protecting your skin, minimizing the risk of side effects such as burns or irritation. As a result, you’ll experience a safer and more comfortable session while achieving exceptional results.
The Candela Gentle Max Pro At Mira Med And Day Spa
During laser hair removal, the laser emits a specific wavelength of light that targets the pigment of your hair. The melanin in the hair absorbs the light energy and converts it to heat, damaging the follicles and delaying/inhibiting hair growth.
Pre-Treatment:
- Avoid direct sun exposure 4-6 weeks before and after treatment. Tan skin cannot be treated. Treating tan skin runs the risk of pigmentation changes that may take months to resolve or become permanent.
- You must avoid bleaching, plucking, or waxing hair for 6 weeks prior to treatment.
- If you have had a history of perioral herpes, prophylactic antiviral therapy may be started the day before treatment and continued one week after treatment.
- If you’re getting face hair removal, avoid any intense facial treatment such as retinol use, chemical peels, lip filler, and botox for 2-4 weeks prior.
- You may lightly exfoliate 3-4 days prior to your treatment.
- Hair should be closely shaved the night before treatment or approximately 12-24 hours prior.
- Don’t apply moisturizers, creams, or oils to the skin after showering on the day of your treatment.
What To Expect During Treatment
During treatment, your technician will move the laser up and down the target area and you’ll hear a beeping sound. The lasers can feel like a quick rubberband flick that varies in intensity depending on the area, then quickly followed by a cool feeling. Any discomfort usually subsides quickly after treatment. Hair removal for areas such as the legs, underarms, bikini, and face takes about 20-30 minutes while a full-body treatment may take around an hour.
What To Expect After Treatment
Over the next 1-3 weeks, treated hair may seem to “grow” as it is pushed out of the follicle. This is a normal shedding process and not new hair growth. You may gently exfoliate the area to help speed up shedding.
Post-Treatment:
- Immediately after treatment, don’t be alarmed if you have any light redness or swelling–this is called Perifollicular Edema (PFE) and it occurs from swelling at the roots of your hair follicles. This common response will resolve anywhere from 20 minutes to 24 hours depending on your body’s sensitivity. I can last longer for clients with darker skin types. The treated area will feel like a sunburn for a few hours after treatment. Your skin may itch for a day in the areas where the laser was used, but make sure not to scratch! The application of ice or pure aloe gel during the first few hours after treatment will reduce the discomfort and swelling that may be experienced. 15 Hydrocortisone cream is also appropriate to use for comfort and resolution of symptoms.
- Makeup may be used immediately post-treatment.
- Avoid sun exposure to reduce the chance of hyperpigmentation or darker pigmentation. Use SPF 30+ at all times through the course of treatment. If going on a trip involving sunning/tanning, allow at least 4 weeks between the time of sun exposure and your next treatment.
- Do not use any other hair removal treatment products or similar treatments (waxing, electrolysis, tweezing) that will disturb the hair follicle on the treatment area for 4-6 weeks after the laser treatment is performed. Shaving or clipping is okay.
- Avoid exercise, tight clothing, hot baths, exfoliating scrubs, scented lotions, and deodorant (for armpit hair removal) for two days.
- After the underarms are treated, use a powder, instead of deodorant, for 24 hours after the treatment to reduce skin irritation.
- There are no restrictions on bathing except to treat the skin gently, as if you have a sunburn, for the first 24 hours.
How Often Should I Come In
Hair re-growth occurs at different rates on different areas of the body. Hair growth will not occur for at least 2 weeks after treatment. For the most effective and long-lasting hair removal, we recommend 6-8 rounds of treatment, repeating each treatment 4-6 weeks for any areas above the collar bones, and 6-8 weeks for any areas below the collar bone. After a full series of laser treatments, 6-8 rounds, there will be a 70-90% reduction of hair and no ingrowns! Maintenance of more laser treatment for touch-ups may be needed every 2 years after your initial series of treatments.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Nursing
- Tanned skin
- Skin cancer/History of skin cancer
- Tattoos
- Active skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, rash, etc.)
- Accutane
- Photosensitizing medications
- Some antibiotics
- Seizure disorders
- Cold sensitivity
- Active skin infection
FAQ’s
Is laser hair removal with the GentleMax Pro safe for all skin tones?
Yes, the GentleMax Pro is suitable for most skin types, from light to darker skin tones, thanks to its dual-wavelength technology. The Alexandrite laser is ideal for lighter skin, while the ND: YAG Laser (1064 nm) is ideal for treating darker skin tones.
What areas can be treated?
The GentleMax Pro can safely treat almost any area of the body, including:
- Face (upper lip, chin, sideburns)
- Underarms
- Bikini/Brazilian area
- Legs
- Back
- Chest and abdomen
- Arms and hands
Are the results permanent?
Laser hair removal with the GentleMax Pro significantly reduces hair growth. Most clients achieve long-term hair reduction with regular sessions, but maintenance treatments may be needed over time, as some hair may regrow due to hormonal changes or other factors.
Experience Advanced Laser Treatment Today
At MiraMed and Day Spa, we are committed to offering the latest and most effective treatments for our clients. The Candela GentleMax Pro is a revolutionary solution for those seeking hair removal. If you’re ready to experience the power of the GentleMax Pro, contact us today to schedule your consultation or book an appointment! Let us help you achieve the smooth, radiant, and youthful skin you deserve—comfortably and safely!
MiraMed and Day Spa
1921 State St Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: (805) 770-2461
