Continuing my review of laser hair removal devices, today I will dwell in detail on a device from the company Candela. Their brainchild is called Candela Gentlelase PRO-U. I will talk about the characteristics of the laser, the principle of its operation, what advantages and disadvantages it has, and why salon owners and clients choose it. I wrote about what other alexandrite lasers there are in a separate article. The result is a whole rating of laser hair removal devices. You can read it.
Laser Characteristics
Candela Gentlelase PRO-U - long-wave alexandrite laser, optical-quantum device. The manufacturer tells us that this is the most efficient, fastest, most reliable, easy to use, and error-proof laser available. According to most experts, Candela Gentlelase PRO-U is the ideal of quality, and for more than 10 years it has been called the gold standard in laser hair removal. I decided to find confirmation of these words, so as not to talk about it unfoundedly. Laser wavelength from 755 to 1064 nm, pulse duration from 2 to 30 ms. It is considered the fastest laser. In addition, the Candela Gentlelase PRO-U device offers 2 cooling systems:
- air ACC (Air Cooling Compatible™) – a cooling system based on the vortex effect, the active body is placed on the axis of the handle and rotates when pressed, supplying a stream of cold air;
- Cryogen-based cooling DCD (Dynamic Cooling Device™) is a dynamic system that provides gradual cooling at low temperatures. Before the pulse and immediately after it, a small dose of cryogen is applied to the skin, which cools it to the desired optimal temperature. This system allows you to increase power without risk to the patient's skin. This system is unique and has a patent.
Light spot size from 1.5 to 24 mm. In 1 pulse you can process 452 mm²! This significantly reduces the time of the hair removal procedure, but does not reduce the quality.
Manufacturers are telling the truth when they claim that the Candela Gentlelase PRO-U is the fastest laser on the planet. Its characteristics confirm this.
In addition, I note that another main and important factor is the absence of the need to use gels during the procedure, which makes clients very happy.
Experts also noted that the absorption of melanin by the Candela Gentlelase PRO-U alexandrite laser is higher than that of the diode laser.
Based on this, having compared several types of devices, I can rightfully call the Candela Gentlelase PRO-U device a unique invention and one of the best lasers for medical institutions and professional beauty salons.
As for other parameters and characteristics, see the table below. I tried to reflect as much information as possible:
| No. | Characteristic name | Meaning |
| 1. | Laser type | Long pulse alexandrite |
| 2. | Wavelength | 755 nm (1064 nm) |
| 3. | Pulse duration | 10Hz |
| 4. | Light Spot Size | 6,8,10,12,15,18,20,22,24 mm |
| 5. | Flux density | 560 J/cm² |
| 6. | Device size (H*W*D) | 107*46*69 cm |
| 7. | Weight | 108 kg |
| 8. | Cooling system | Gas, air |
| 9. | Glass | Natural sapphire |
| 10. | Cryogen | NFC 134a |
| 11. | Cryogen spray duration | Interval 10-100ms |
| 12. | Duration of spraying after | Interval 0-20ms |
| 13. | Delay duration | Interval 3,5,10-100 ms |
| 14. | Tool with air cooling device (ACC | Setting a specific air flow temperature (often 0 °C) |
Manufacturer
Candela Corporation (USA), along with Cynosure, is one of the leaders in the market of solid-state lasers - alexandrite and neodymium. The company's products have been known since 1979. Alexandrite lasers of the GentleLase series were the first approved by the FDA for use in cosmetology, and in the 21st century. Ultrasound and radiofrequency devices are also produced under the Candela brand.
Candela Gentlelase PRO-U laser technology
The technology of this laser is based on the principle of selective photothermolysis. What is this, you ask? To put it in a more understandable language, it sounds like this: a laser beam of a certain length selectively acts on the structure of the hair, heating and destroying its components. The energy is absorbed by the hair follicle and melanin is destroyed. The result is the cessation of hair growth in the area that was treated. The length of the pulses is selected individually and is aimed only at hairs that are in the active growth phase. Dormant hairs are not affected during the procedure. Therefore, to completely remove and rid hair with the Candela Gentlelase PRO-U laser, several sessions will be required. The skin around the hair remains undamaged during the procedures.
GentleLase - 20 years in laser hair removal
Published: 03/13/2018
The legendary alexandrite laser Candela GentleLase celebrates its anniversary - 20 years in laser hair removal. This is how long it has been since the GentleLase laser received FDA approval for permanent laser hair removal, making it the world's first long-pulse alexandrite laser with a skin cooling system officially approved for hair removal procedures. Today, the majority of GentleLase users...
Pros and cons of the Candela Gentlelase PRO-U laser
To give a truly objective description of this device, I studied a huge amount of information from different angles. What are the advantages:
- The size of the light spot significantly reduces the procedure time. For comparison, treatment of the leg area will take about 25 minutes, while with another laser it takes 50 minutes;
- fast results thanks to increased pulse frequency and adjustable wavelength. After two sessions, hair is reduced by 80% on the face and 60% on the body;
- Removes hair of any shade and thickness. People say this is a laser for “white people”. It is believed that a diode laser can only cope with hairs on dark, dark skin. There are no barriers for the Candela Gentlelase PRO-U alexandrite laser;
- The unique cooling system eliminates painful sensations, so that any client does not experience them, even those with a low pain threshold. This system also protects against overheating;
- does not leave irritation or burns;
- no recovery required after the procedure;
- The procedure has a rejuvenating effect due to the wavelength, it affects not only melanin, but also collagen and water. When exposed to them, small wrinkles are smoothed out, the regeneration process starts;
- the ability to treat areas with hypersensitive skin;
- dynamic cooling system allows you to cool the skin almost instantly;
- the air cooling system is adjusted individually to the sensitivity of each client, cooling in the most inaccessible places;
- Both cooling systems are as ergonomic as possible.
The benefits are perfect. What I highlighted from the shortcomings:
- you need to cut your hair before the procedure with a razor;
- a month before the procedure, do not use wax, chemical hair removal products and avoid sugaring;
- after the procedure, herpes may break out;
- high cost of ownership due to gas cooling, changing cylinders is required frequently, one cylinder is consumed for a small number of procedures;
- the quality of the cryogen must be high, otherwise it will lead to expensive equipment repairs;
- risk of cold burns;
- the air system is noisy; when turned on, it takes several minutes to reach operating temperature;
- high cost of procedures;
- high cost of equipment.
Rehabilitation after procedures
After any laser treatment (lifting, hair removal, etc.) it takes time to restore the skin. As a rule, this requires 2 - 3 weeks, but in some cases the period may be reduced or increased. In between procedures (if course therapy is implied) or after a single session, it is recommended to refrain from visiting baths and saunas, the beach and the solarium. You should definitely use sunscreen before going outside.
Contraindications Candela Gentlelase PRO-U
Whatever the safe procedure, there are still contraindications to laser hair removal with this laser:
- skin cancer;
- blood diseases, including bleeding disorders;
- herpes during an exacerbation;
- diabetes;
- epilepsy;
- oncological diseases;
- viral infections - ARVI, influenza, sore throat;
- allergy;
- fresh tan;
- pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- period of hormonal imbalances.
If you have none of the above, but at the time of the course of procedures your body will be in the stage of exacerbation of some chronic diseases that are not listed here, you should consult with a doctor about carrying out a course of procedures. This also follows if your body undergoes any physiological changes at the time of the procedure. For example, menopause, taking medications that increase skin sensitivity to UV rays.
Side effects
Laser treatment with Kandela devices is quite safe; side effects are observed in 7 out of 10 people, but they are mild and do not require treatment. Reviews from patients indicate mild pain, irritation, and increased skin sensitivity. In 2 cases out of 100, mild skin burns are noted; they are eliminated with the help of moisturizing creams.
Light burn marks after laser hair removal
Instructions for use
For information! For everyone who does not like procedures with the application of gel, the procedure with this laser takes place without it.
Sequence of steps:
- workplace preparation;
- identification of areas of influence, it is better to draw them so as not to confuse them;
- the master and the client put on safety glasses;
- Before the procedure, the skin should be disinfected;
- carry out the procedure itself consistently;
- Treat the skin after the session with a soothing protective cream.
Indications for hair removal using the CANDELA device
The main indication for hair removal using the CANDELA device is the aesthetic desire of the patient to get rid of the problems that concern him, associated with unwanted hair on the face or body. The CANDELA device is an effective solution to such problems as:
- hypertrichosis;
- hirsutism;
- ingrown hair.
Reviews from clients and craftsmen
Despite the unique technology of the Candela Gentlelase PRO-U laser with a dual cooling system, some clients report pain after the procedure. In general, I can say that clients are satisfied with the result and the owners are satisfied with the purchase. This is a premium device. For some clients, it is important that the procedure be done on it. It is especially popular among people with high incomes.
Irusya, Uraina, gives 5 stars
Among the advantages, I will highlight a good result for a long time, and among the disadvantages, it is expensive. I had the procedure done for the first time in 2014 before going on vacation. A friend recommended laser hair removal. They did it in the salon using a Candela Gentlelase PRO-U laser. The skin was red for several hours after the procedure, but the procedure itself was fairly quick and painless. It feels like being bitten by a mosquito. The specialist suggests applying an anesthetic cream, but I did not use it. For a week after the procedure, I moisturized my skin abundantly. After the third procedure, a year has passed, there are practically no hairs. To get rid of it forever you will need 6-7 procedures. Smooth skin for a long time in my case.
Alisa, Moscow, gives 4.5 stars
Effectiveness was noted after the first procedure. The disadvantage is discomfort. I'm happy with the result. I have medium hair. After 4 procedures there was practically no hair left.
Natalya, master, Moscow, gives 4.5 stars
This is a very good device, it really produces results. Some clients complain of pain. This is understandable; the higher the power, the more painful the procedure will be. Everything is compensated by the result.
The legendary Gentle series is 22 years old
Published: 03/27/2020
Today, March 27, 2022, the legendary Gentle series celebrates its next birthday. 22 years ago, the first device in this series was sold - the GentleLase alexandrite laser, which, thanks to its exceptional reliability and unsurpassed efficiency, became the standard of quality and the “gold standard” of laser hair removal. Regardless of the time of year and skin phototype, Gentle laser hair removal is suitable for you. Only…
What is the equipment used for?
The model is considered a standard of quality - they strive to equip beauty salons, cosmetology and medical clinics with equipment. This is a universal solution that can solve several problems:
- Removal of excess hair on the body and face;
- Working with pigment spots and signs of aging;
- Intensive rejuvenation of the skin.
If we talk about the effect on the skin, the laser normalizes metabolic processes and initiates the natural production of collagen, which provides lifting without the use of cosmetics. Moreover, the use of technology does not require long-term rehabilitation - the patient can enjoy life immediately after the procedure. To achieve the desired result, it is enough to follow the recommendations prescribed by your cosmetologist.
