GentleMAX Cosmetic Dermatology Treatments

Combining the capabilities of two Best–in–Class lasers — GentleLASE and GentleYAG — Candela announces GentleMAX® — the first multiple wavelength workstation uniquely configured to address aesthetic medicines’ most commonly requested procedures, including permanent hair reduction, leg and facial vein removal, vascular and pigmented lesion removal. The GentleMAX offers the same unsurpassed speed, efficacy and ease-of-use found in all Candela lasers along with the additional advantages of expanded treatment versatility and convenience. Only Candela can offer its customers a configurable, multiple wavelength device without compromising product specifications, power or performance. We have the right laser for you.

What is treated?

Hair Removal
- Permanent hair reduction on all skin types
- Beard Bumps
- Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB)

Skin Rejuvenation
- Pigmentation
- Wrinkle Reduction

Pigmented Lesions
- Sun Spots/Age Spots
- Freckles
- Cafe-au-Lait
- Melasma

Vascular
- Leg Veins
- Hemangiomas
- Venous Lakes
- Blue Facial Veins

How does the treatment work?

The Candela Gentlemax produces a wavelength of 1064nm as well as 755 nm, which are used depending of your skin type, with the longer wavelengths used in darker individuals. The laser energy is delivered through a hand-held device with a specific distance gauge. While the rest of the skin is almost completely transparent for this wavelength, it is highly absorbed in hair pigment melanin.

Thus, the laser beam passes through the skin and penetrates the targeted vessel or hair follicle. The laser energy heats up and coagulates the hair root, producing swelling of the skin around hair shaft known as perifollicular edema, which is a sign of successful hair ablation.

What can I expect during the treatment?

You may experience a stinging sensation during the treatment, which resolves immediately after the treatment is over. In some cases, you may be offered topical anesthetic cream, which may eliminate much of the discomfort associated with the treatment. Cold packs may be applied after the procedure for any discomfort.

What should I expect after the procedure?

The appearance of the treated vessels will dramatically change over time, turning from blue and purple into light red. Some of the vessels may bulge, however, any inflammation should disappear within a few hours. Patience is essential as the redness of the treated vessels gradually disappear. As the healing process occurs, your body will break down and reabsorb the vessel, which may take anywhere between 4 and 8 weeks, depending on the size of the veins.

The post-operative treatment regime may include wearing pressure hose, avoiding medication containing aspirin and wearing sunscreen. Make sure to discuss these options with your laser practitioner prior to the treatment. Excessive heat and vasodilation should be avoided for 48 hours after the treatment (no hot tubs or exercise)

How many treatments will I need?

Depending on the severity of the veins, you may require anywhere between one and three treatments six to eight weeks apart. The treatment is performed on the existing vessels, diminishing or completely eliminating their appearance. However, the development of new veins cannot be prevented. If your body tends to develop vascular problems you will most likely come back for additional treatments.

Are there side effects?

Your risks are minimal. Side effects may include redness, swelling, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, blistering, and purpura (a laser bruise), in the treated area—these usually do not last more than a few days. Permanent side effects are rare. Be sure to discuss potential side effects with your provider

To discuss your GentleMAX treatment with a Board Certified Dermatologist please make an online appointment or call (773) 907 8454 today.