GentleMax Pro vs Pro Plus: How Hair Growth Cycles Impact Laser Results—and Why You Should Shave, Not Wax

GentleMax Pro vs. GentleMax Pro Plus: What’s the Real Difference, and Do You Still Need Multiple Sessions?

If you’ve been exploring laser hair removal, you’ve probably heard about GentleMax Pro—and maybe now, the newer GentleMax Pro Plus. But what’s the difference? Do you need fewer sessions with the newer version?

Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense—whether you’re a busy mom, a teenager looking into your first session, or just someone curious about investing in smoother skin.

What is GentleMax Pro Plus, and How Is It Different From the Original?

Both the GentleMax Pro and the GentleMax Pro Plus are created by Candela, a leading name in laser technology trusted by dermatologists here and abroad. Both use dual wavelengths (Alexandrite 755nm and Nd:YAG 1064nm), making them safe and effective for most skin types and color.

But the GentleMax Pro Plus is a newer version, and what sets it apart are the following:

Faster coverage – Larger spot size means quicker treatment time, especially for large areas like full legs, full arms or back.
Higher fluence range – Delivers energy more efficiently, which may enhance results over time.
More consistent output – Helps improve precision and reliability from pulse to pulse.

So does it automatically mean better or faster results? The final result will still depend on your skin type, whether your hair is thin or thick, and most importantly, your hair growth cycle.

Does GentleMax Pro Plus Require Fewer Sessions?

Not necessarily. Although the newer technology delivers energy more efficiently and may lead to slightly better results for some, it still follows the rules of biology, especially the hair growth cycle. Which means, yes, you’ll still need a series of sessions.

Let’s Talk Hair Cycles Made Simple

Your hair grows in cycles, and the laser is only effective during one of those:

1. Anagen (Active Growth)
   This is the most important phase for laser hair removal.
   • The hair is actively growing and still attached to the follicle.
   • The root is rich in melanin (pigment), which absorbs the laser energy, and allows it to travel down and destroy the follicle.
   • Only hairs in this phase can be permanently reduced.
   Laser is only effective during this stage.

2. Catagen Phase (Transition Phase)
   • This is a short resting period where the hair detaches from the follicle and stops growing.
   • Laser won’t be effective here because there’s no connection to the follicle anymore.
   Laser cannot disable follicles during this stage.

3. Catagen Phase (Transition Phase)
• This is a short resting period where the hair detaches from the follicle and stops growing.
• Laser won’t be effective here because there’s no connection to the follicle anymore.
• Laser cannot disable follicles during this stage

At any time, only 10 to 30% of your body hair is in the anagen phase, depending on the area. That’s why multiple sessions, usually 6 to 8 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, are needed to target more hairs as they enter this treatable phase.

Here’s the Catch – Not All Hair Is in the Same Phase at Once

At any given time, only 10 to 30% of hair in the body is in the anagen phase, and the percentage depends on the area:

Body Area Estimated % in Anagen Phase
Bikini & Underarms 20–30%
Arms & Legs 15–20%
Face 30–50%
Scalp 80–90%

So during each laser session, we’re only treating a fraction of your total hair, which is the ones that are in the active growth stage.

Why Shaving is Okay, But Waxing Isn’t

Before your laser session, shaving is encouraged. It removes surface hair but leaves the root intact, which is exactly what the laser targets.

Waxing remove the entire hair shaft and follicle. That means there’s nothing for the laser to hit, and the session won’t be effective.

If you’ve recently waxed, it’s best to wait at least 4 weeks before starting laser.

Real Talk—Why Skinhouse laser is Still the Best Place to Do It?

While technology matters, so does who’s behind it.

At Skinhouse, you’re not just getting the latest machine. You’re also getting:

• Derma-supervised care
• Nurses with local and some, with international experience
• Staff who perform lasers every day
• Authentic devices (no knock-offs)

And if anything unusual happens? You’re already in a clinic with board-certified dermatologists who can take over—something many laser studios can’t promise.

The Bottom Line

GentleMax Pro Plus is the most advanced version of an already-trusted technology. It’s faster, more comfortable, and may improve results, but hair cycles still apply, so consistency is key.

And with Skinhouse laser, you’re getting more than just tech. You’re getting a team that treats laser like a craft, not a trend.

Start your smooth skin journey with the pros. Message us to book your first session!