Does a laser distance gauge have to touch the skin to effectively remove hair?

Question

Evaluating two laser hair removal spas. Both use Candella Gentlepro Max. One applies full skin contact. The other keeps the distance gauge away from skin to prevent infectious diseases. What is the most effective and safest technique - no touch or full skin contact (with or no gel)? I prefer no touch, but is it effective? I'd also be OK with disposable distance gauges. Any other machines that do NOT require skin contact? If skin contact is a must, what specific sterilization is needed?

Danielle Shanley, MD · Answer

Yes both laser hair removal machines do work very well. I do find that the Cynosure Elite with the distance gauge works unbelievable. This gauge is usually cleaned with sani-cloth plus, germicidal, bacterial cloths in-between each client. So it will kill any kind of transferal skin conditions/diseases. Enjoy the results of Laser Hair Removal!

Susan Fox, DO, RPVI · Answer

Hello, we use gentlemax pro as well.  This laser does not use gel, lasers using gel would be diode lasers or IPL (which is not a true laser).  The distance gauge should be in contact with the skin and then properly disinfected after to prevent infectious diseases.  Ask your spa about their sanitation practices.  Good luck!

Laura A. Katz, MD · Answer

The GentleMax Pro for laser hair removal is a great machine.  It is the gold standard for hair removal.  In order for the laser to achieve sufficient depth to destroy the hair root bulb, the gauge needs to be touching the skin.  This is why it is essential to sterilize the gauges between each use, body area being treated, and patient.   Sterilizing wipes and alcohol are used.  The Laser, the lenses, the size adjusters, handles etc should be cleansed between each patient.  Here is a Laser hair removal videos to illustrate the dos and don'ts of Laser.  Laser hair removal may be performed by a tech or a board certified physician.  Some places have techs.  Some have physicians.  Be sure to look at the picture portfolios of both spas and ask about any complications they have had.

Ali Sherzoy, MD · Answer

Some laser uses contact, others non-contact usually it is not because of prevention of infection, but it is due to the type of laser, like Diode laser uses contact. The idea is to heat the hair follicle to the point that gets destroyed without destroying the surrounding tissue. Dark tissue absorb more laser heat like hair and get destroyed easier than the surrounding tissue, that is why lasers do not work on white and light blond hair. in short both type can be effective. the practitioner should know which type of laser is better for your skin type. Diodes is effective for all type hair and are fast Alexandrite is better for light skin people Yag is better for darker hair people.

Does a laser distance gauge have to touch the skin to effectively remove hair?

Answers (4)

Answer: Contact and non contact laser hair removal

Answer: Contact and non contact laser hair removal

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Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

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Does a laser distance gauge have to touch the skin to effectively remove hair?

Answers (4)

Answer: Contact and non contact laser hair removal

Answer: Contact and non contact laser hair removal

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Recommended reading

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.