When it comes to laser hair removal, not all machines are created equal. If you go to a salon that doesn’t have quality equipment, you can end up wasting your money without achieving your hair-free goals.

At SEV, we believe you deserve an accessible treatment that works with your skin, for lasting, confidence-boosting smoothness. We don’t compromise on the kind of lasers we use, and our team of registered nurses and laser technicians have the necessary experience and training to customize each session to your needs. That means safe, effective treatments every time, and for fair and flexible prices.

Ready to learn more about the lasers we use at SEV? We’re breaking it all down for you in this post. You’ll understand how lasers work, which will work best for you, and why the machines we use are the best in the industry. Let’s dive in.

How Lasers Work to Remove Hair

A laser is a machine that creates amplified light through a crystal, gas, liquid, or semiconductor. Lasers emit light at a single wavelength so they can penetrate through the skin to specific depths. The precise depth to which the light penetrates depends on the type of laser, and it’s a very important aspect of laser selection.

The light from the laser is then attracted to the pigment in the root of the hair. Once absorbed by the root, the light converts to heat which damages the follicle — this process is called selective photothermolysis. This selective damage prevents the growth of new hair.

It’s important to note that only hairs in the active growth stage have enough melanin to absorb the light. This is why laser hair removal takes at least 8 sessions to show significant results, and often more. Eventually, with enough treatments, the laser impacts enough active hairs to create significant and profound hair reduction, with results that last for years and can be easily maintained with the occasional touch-up.

Understanding Laser Machine Terminology

When researching laser hair removal, it’s easy to get confused by the various terms and names of laser machines. When you ask a provider what kind of laser they use, they might answer with any of the following:

Manufacturer or brand: There are only a handful of companies producing high-quality laser devices, which is why you always want to know the name of the manufacturer. At SEV, our go-to company for all things laser is Candela, a leading, U.S.-based manufacturer of aesthetic medical devices. Other companies in the space include Cynosure and InMode.

Models: Within each brand, there are usually several laser hair removal platforms or systems. For example, in addition to the GentleMax Pro, Candela also has the GentleYag Pro (an Nd:YAG-only laser device) and the GentleLase Pro (an Alexandrite-only device).

Types of lasers: Independent of the brand or model, there are different types of laser technologies. As long as your provider discloses the make and model of their laser device, this is easy to find out. Always check, as it’s the most important thing you need to know as you think about investing in laser hair removal.

The type of laser is categorized by the amplification medium, which is either a type of crystal or a semiconductor. The only lasers still used for hair removal today are Alexandrite, Nd:YAG, and diode. Some salons use IPL devices, which are significantly less effective than real lasers.

Which Lasers Does SEV Use?

Most SEV Laser locations use the Candela GentleMax Pro — the gold-standard platform for hair removal, trusted by dermatologists and aesthetic clinics across the U.S. Some SEV locations use the Cynosure Elite IQ, another reputable device with an equally high level of efficacy. These laser systems are highly customizable, so their treatment effects are similar.

Both Candela and Cynosure are leaders in the medical aesthetic space, and they produce innovative, advanced devices for popular clinics and med spas all over the world.

Their laser devices are dual-wavelength, which means they feature both Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers. This allows us to accommodate clients of all skin tones and use the best laser for their unique needs, as we’ll explain in more detail below.

With such versatile machines, what matters most is the skill and experience of your provider, and their ability to select the right settings for your skin type and hair growth.

Our registered nurses and certified laser technicians at SEV are highly specialized in laser hair removal treatments, and they undergo continuous training. They follow industry best practices and have the expertise to customize each treatment, ensuring the best results for every client.

Candela GentleMax Pro: The Gold Standard Laser Platform

About Candela Syneron: 

  • 20+ years as an industry leader
  • Based in United States
  • More than 10 thousand systems installed
  • Presence in over 89 countries

Candela Syneron is one of the leading medical aesthetic device manufacturers in the United States. Headquartered in Massachusetts, the company’s devices are trusted by dermatologists, plastic surgeons, nurses, estheticians, and other aesthetic professionals in clinics and studios worldwide.

An industry pioneer, Candela has driven many of the most significant laser-related innovations. The company produces devices for skin rejuvenation, tattoo removal, scar removal, and more. Its laser devices, particularly those from the Gentle series, have been used in numerous studies on laser hair removal, advancing the industry’s understanding of best practices.

Candela launched its first laser hair reduction system in 1998, pioneering the use of Alexandrite laser.

About the GentleMax Pro: 

  • FDA-approved dual-wavelength platform
  • Alexandrite laser for lighter skin tones
  • Nd:YAG laser for deeper skin tones
  • High maximum energy output for more powerful treatments
  • Faster treatments thanks to larger spot size (up to 24 mm)
  • Highly adjustable spot size (3 mm to 24 mm) and pulse width (0.25 ms to 100 ms) for maximum customizability and patient safety
  • Air Cooling for pain reduction and skin protection

The GentleMax Pro is a cutting-edge laser system and one of the world’s most popular medical aesthetic devices. There are a few factors that set the GentleMax Pro apart from other laser systems:

It’s a dual-wavelength laser platform, which means it includes both Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers to effectively treat all skin tones.

It’s one of the most powerful laser systems on the market, with an immense potential energy output.

It’s developed with compatible cooling mechanisms proven to significantly reduce the discomfort associated with laser treatments. All SEV locations use the GentleMax Pro with Air Cooling to ensure the most comfortable treatment experience for our clients.

Cynosure Lutronic Elite iQ: High-Powered and Intelligent

About Cynosure Lutronic:

  • Based in the United States
  • Over 30 years of innovation and industry leadership
  • Robust portfolio of medical aesthetic devices
  • Sold in over 130 countries

Cynosure (now Cynosure Lutronic after a recent merger) is another leader in the medical aesthetic space. Also based in Massachusetts, the company manufactures multiple laser systems, as well as radiofrequency devices like the Potenza Microneedling system.

Cynosure is one of Candela’s main competitors, with presence in dermatologist clinics and plastic surgeon offices as well as salons and med spas throughout the world.

About the Elite iQ: 

  • FDA-approved dual-wavelength platform
  • Alexandrite laser for lighter skin tones
  • Nd:YAG laser for deeper skin tones
  • Skintel® melanin reader technology helps providers with setting selection
  • Versatile spot size (2.5 mm up to 24 mm) and pulse width (0.4 ms to 300 ms) for maximum customizability and patient safety
  • High maximum fluence for powerful treatments when safe

Cynosure Elite iQ offers very similar specs to the Candela GentleMax Pro. It’s a well-established device with years of clinical research to back its safety and efficacy. It’s a dual-wavelength, highly adjustable laser hair removal system that can safely treat clients of all skin tones.

While the operation of the Cynosure Elite iQ differs slightly from the Candela GentleMax Pro, this has no impact on your results or overall experience as a client, which ultimately depends on the skill and expertise of your provider.

Types of Laser Technologies at SEV

At SEV, we use laser systems that feature both Alexandrite and Nd:YAG laser technologies. This is why we can treat all clients safely and effectively, including those with darker skin tones who often struggle to see results with other types of lasers. Here’s what you should know about each one of these important technological innovations:

Alexandrite Laser: Best for Lighter Skin Tones

Wavelength: 755 nm

Skin Tone: Fitzpatrick I-III

Alexandrite laser technology is the best hair removal option for those with lighter skin. Studies usually show it can create up to 85% long-term hair reduction after a series of treatments with the Alexandrite laser, although participants achieved as much as 96% hair reduction after just three sessions on the underarm area!

If you’re into crystals, the name may sound familiar to you! This laser technology relies on an Alexandrite gemstone to concentrate and amplify light. It transforms electrically-generated light into a powerful pulse that can radically reduce hair growth.

Alexandrite laser has a relatively short wavelength of 755 nm, which is ideal for targeting the hair follicle in those with fair to medium skin tones.

However, for those with darker skin tones, the Alexandrite can’t make the distinction between skin and hair color as effectively. There is a higher risk that it will damage the skin and lead to scarring or pigmentation changes, which is why it’s not recommended.

Nd:YAG Laser: Best for Darker Skin Tones

Wavelength: 1064 nm

Skin Tone: Fitzpatrick IV-VI

Nd:YAG laser technology is the safest and most effective hair removal option for those with darker skin tones. Just like Alexandrite, Nd:YAG is also a crystal, albeit a lab-made one.

In most studies, subjects achieve approximately up to 75% hair reduction, although in one study some participants achieved as much as 90% hair reduction in the underarms. There are also many studies focused on the Nd:YAG laser’s safety, since historically those with darker skin were at a much higher risk of complications and side effects from hair removal treatments with the wrong lasers.

Compared to the Alexandrite laser, Nd:YAG has a longer wavelength (1064 nm to be precise). It penetrates deeper, beyond the skin surface, directly to the hair follicle. The skin only “holds” melanin in the epidermis, which Nd:YAG laser bypasses, while the hair follicle is deeper in the dermis. This way, the Nd:YAG can identify and damage the hair follicle without harming the surrounding skin.

What Kind of Cooling Does SEV Laser Use?

During all laser hair removal sessions at SEV, we use the Zimmer Cryo 6 cooling device. This device is compatible with both the Candela GentleMax Pro and Cynosure Elite iQ systems, so all of our clients can enjoy a nearly pain-free treatment.

The Cryo 6 emits air and cools the skin continuously throughout the appointment. By maintaining a comfortable temperature, it also helps protect the skin. Thanks to this device, our clients are often pleasantly surprised to discover that laser hair removal isn’t nearly as painful as they expected!!

The SEV Experience

The SEV Laser Hair Removal Equipments are just one reason we’re the best laser hair removal provider in the United States. In addition to top-tier technology, the SEV difference is in our expert team, transparent pricing, and the elevated experience we provide every client.

Certified Registered Nurses and Technicians

Since opening our first location over a decade ago, SEV Laser has performed over 2.5 million laser hair removal treatments. Our team of talented and passionate medical aesthetic professionals specializes in laser hair removal, focusing solely on delivering exceptional results.

Every nurse and laser technician at SEV is certified in laser hair removal and follows industry best practices. With ongoing training and education, they’re always at the top of their game.

You’ll be amazed not only by your results but also by the warmth and professionalism of our entire team. Beyond delivering exceptional results, we ensure every client feels safe and cared for throughout their treatment.

Commitment to Fair Laser Pricing

When it comes to pricing, the laser hair removal industry lacks transparency. Many providers withhold their price menus, forcing clients into high-pressure sales calls disguised as ‘consultations.’ At the end of these conversations, people often find that they’ve committed to overpriced treatment packages that cost thousands of dollars.

At SEV, we’re committed to improving transparency and fairness in the laser hair removal space. This starts with our budget-friendly laser hair removal prices.

5-Star Reviews

After over a decade dedicated to laser hair removal excellence, we’ve gathered thousands of 5-star reviews from clients throughout the US. Here’s what some of our clients say about our machines, nurses, and the results they’ve experienced:

Magdalena

I’ve been to other places but I was unsatisfied as I still had hair growth even after many sessions. Within 2 sessions with the Candela laser that SEV uses, my hair stopped growing and I’m very satisfied with the outcome!

Madison Burke

I had an amazing experience at SEV laser! The machine used for the hair removal is eons advanced from the machines used 5 years ago, thank god. I had a nearly painless experience, in some spots it felt a little hot. The nurse that did my treatment was very professional and kind.

Jewel “JuJuBee” J.

If you are a brown or black woman or man, I highly suggest SEV. They have the proper equipment to cater to our skin. Best of the Best.

Bottom Line

SEV Laser uses the industry’s top laser technologies, the Candela GentleMax Pro and Cynosure Elite iQ. These laser platforms have dual-wavelength 755 nm Alexandrite and 1064 nm Nd:YAG lasers.

Thanks to these machines, we can promise our clients ultra-effective, extremely safe laser hair removal treatments. Beyond our commitment to cutting-edge laser hair removal, we also offer our treatments at reasonable, transparent prices. This is part of our mission to improve laser hair removal accessibility and inclusivity.

All our laser services are performed by highly trained registered nurses and laser technicians who are experts in the technology. They ensure a comforting experience for every client, explaining the process and answering your questions to keep you feeling at ease.

No matter your background or skin tone, your SEV provider will select the right laser for you. Ready to get started? Book your appointment at your nearest SEV location today!