No results with Candela GentleMax Pro laser hair removal?

Question

Hi, I did about 5 sessions of laser hair removal and saw almost no results. The hair would shed, but I did not notice any reduction. The levels used were 6, 7, 8, 8, 9 and 9. Is this too low? Should I try again at another place, or is this my own body's reaction?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This needs an in-person evaluation. Diode, alexandrite and yag lasers work best for hair removal. I typically have patients do every 4 weeks for the first 3 times and then every 4-6 weeks for 3 times after. It will take a series of treatments and some people need treatments to maintain. See an expert in laser hair removal for best results. Best, Dr. Emer

Mark A. Blair, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question.  Here in our facility we use the Candela Gentle Max Pro.  This laser has 2 wavelengths, the 755nm for lighter skin types and the 1064nm for darker skin types.  The energy that you have noted above does not tell the whole story. Different energy levels for each wavelength, as well as the spot size being used.  For either wavelength, I would guess that they would be using the largest spot size, 18mm.  The settings you mention are quite low for both 755nm & 1064nm wavelengths.  Laser hair reduction is a series of treatments, usually 6-8 treatments done 4-8 weeks apart depending on the area treated.  There is only a small percentage of your total follicles in the "growth cycle" at any time, only the follicles in that cycle will be treated. Waiting time between treatments is the time it takes for the follicles at rest to get back into the growth cycle.  Good Luck!

Daniela Atanassova-Lineva, MD · Answer

DO not get discouraged, make sure you complete your 5 sessions, 4-6 weeks apart. I have experience with Alexendrite - ND YAG and the results are great, but one needs to maintain it with twice a year sessions after the initial treatment.  Make sure the technician is experienced, she is the one to pick up the settings, evaluate your skin type and conduct the treatment. It takes some knowledge and experience. It does not work on white and blond hair, you must not be tanned prior to the treatment or expose your skin to sun right after.

Best of luck,

Dr D

No results with Candela GentleMax Pro laser hair removal?

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No results with Candela GentleMax Pro laser hair removal?

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Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.