CoolGlide® Laser Hair Removal FAQs

Is it permanent?

There is no light based treatment that has received FDA clearance for a claim of permanent hair removal. However, the CoolGlide systems are cleared by the FDA for permanent hair reduction. That is defined by the FDA as 85% or greater hair reduction. It is possible that follicles in the treated area, while not being completely destroyed, will be sufficiently disabled to the point where they produce only fine, light hairs that do not respond to further treatment. This is backed up by extensive clinical studies and you should be wary of anyone who claims otherwise.

Why use the CoolGlide systems over other hair removal systems?

Using the latest technology in laser hair removal, the CoolGlide can rapidly treat large areas without the limitations of older technologies. The CoolGlide’s longer wave length allows it to be used safely and effectively on patients with light or dark skin as well as tan skin. Unlike other systems, the Cool Glide can treat the fine hair on a woman’s upper lip just as easily and effectively as the coarse hair on a man’s back. The cooled handpiece increases patient comfort and minimizes the adverse skin reaction commonly seen with other lasers.

How does the CoolGlide system remove hair?

The laser targets the pigment located in the hair follicle and shaft. The light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle and this energy is converted to heat which results in damage to the hair follicle. This damage causes delayed re-growth of hair, and in most cases permanent destruction of many of the hair follicles. Unlike electrolysis, which disables one hair follicle at a time, the light reaches and treats hundreds of follicles at a time.

What do CoolGlide treatments feel like?

As the name implies, the CoolGlide handpiece cools and soothes as it glides along your skin. When the pulse of light is delivered, some patients experience a mild pinching or stinging sensation. No local anesthesia or pain medication is typically required; however, some patients may prefer to use a topical anesthetic when sensitive areas are treated.

How many treatments will I need?

We recommend six treatments. There are a variety of factors that can influence the total number of treatments any individual person will need to achieve their desired results.

What will I look like / how red will I be after the treatment?

Post treatment reactions vary depending on the coarseness, density and color of the hair and the area being treated. In general terms, most patients experience redness similar to a mild sunburn.

I have dark skin / I tan - can I be treated?

Yes. The Cutera CoolGlide is the best laser hair removal system on the market for all skin types and tones, from light to dark, including tanned patients. Its unique design, longer wavelength, and innovative cooling design, allow extremely effective, safe and permanent results.

What about blonde / red / gray hair?

The light energy is attracted to the melanin in your hair. The greater the amount of melanin, the better the results. White or gray hair does not contain any melanin, and does not respond to treatments. However, some hair that many would call blonde or red actually does contain enough melanin to be treatable. When you come in for your consultation we can evaluate your hair and skin type and discuss your options.

Do I need to grow the hair out before my consultation / treatment?

No, in fact we ask that you to shave the area you want treated. We’re actually targeting the anatomical structures below the skin. Surface hair interferes with this process.

Do I have to stop bleaching/ tweezing/ using depilatories, etc?

It’s best, but not entirely necessary. After your first treatment, you will experience a no-growth period in the treated area and will find that it will not be necessary to bleach/tweeze, etc.

How far apart are the treatments spaced?

Typically, our treatments are spaced from 4 weeks to 8 weeks, depending on the area of the body that is treated. We have determined these intervals to ensure best results.

How long before I see results?

You will see results immediately. It takes a week or two for all of the hair in the treated area to fall out. After that, you will experience several weeks of no growth in the treated area. So you’re getting immediate gratification while you are moving toward your long-term goal.

Can I be treated while taking medications?

The only medications that are contraindicated for hair removal are Accutane and Retin-A, which must be discontinued prior to treatment. During your consultation, we’ll review any medications or supplements that you are currently taking to help the technician determine the appropriate fluence for your treatment.

I’m pregnant / planning on becoming pregnant. Can I still be treated?

That depends. While there is no evidence to suggest that pregnant women cannot be treated safely, it is our policy not to treat pregnant women.