If you've been researching laser hair removal in Calgary, you've probably come across two names over and over again: the Candela GentleMax Pro and the InMode DiolazeXL. These are two of the most advanced, FDA-cleared laser hair removal systems in the world — and at Lavish Beauty Laser Med Spa, we're proud to offer both. But which one is right for you? The answer depends on your skin tone, hair type, treatment area, and comfort preferences. In this expert comparison, we break down everything you need to know so you can walk into your consultation feeling fully informed.
Here's an important truth that many clinics won't tell you: the laser matters just as much as the technician operating it. A skilled technician using an outdated or inappropriate laser will deliver mediocre results. And even the best laser in the wrong hands can lead to burns, hyperpigmentation, or wasted money. At Lavish Beauty, we pair world-class technology with experienced, certified laser technicians — giving you the best of both worlds. With 500+ five-star reviews, our results speak for themselves.
In This Guide
GentleMax Pro: The Gold Standard Dual-Wavelength Laser
The GentleMax Pro is manufactured by Candela (now Syneron-Candela), one of the most respected names in medical laser technology. It is widely regarded as the gold standard for laser hair removal by dermatologists and medical aesthetics professionals worldwide — and for good reason. This system delivers two distinct wavelengths in a single platform, making it one of the most versatile lasers ever built.
GentleMax Pro Key Specifications
Dual Wavelength Advantage
What makes the GentleMax Pro truly special is its dual-wavelength system. The 755nm Alexandrite laser is the most effective wavelength for treating lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–III). It delivers high melanin absorption, meaning it aggressively targets dark hair follicles while leaving surrounding skin undamaged. For clients with fair to medium skin, this wavelength offers the fastest, most efficient hair reduction available.
The 1064nm Nd:YAG laser is the safest and most effective wavelength for darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV–VI). Because it penetrates deeper into the skin and has lower melanin absorption at the surface, it bypasses the epidermal melanin that causes burns and hyperpigmentation in darker skin when treated with the wrong laser. This makes the GentleMax Pro the go-to choice for clinics that serve diverse populations — and it's one of the key reasons Lavish Beauty is Calgary's top choice for dark skin laser hair removal.
Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD)
Comfort during treatment matters. The GentleMax Pro features Candela's patented Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD), which delivers a precise burst of cryogen spray to the skin milliseconds before each laser pulse. This cools the outer layer of skin, protecting it from thermal damage while allowing the laser energy to penetrate to the hair follicle below. The result is a more comfortable treatment experience with significantly reduced risk of burns or blistering — especially important for sensitive areas and darker skin tones.
Beyond Hair Removal
The GentleMax Pro is not just a hair removal laser. Its dual wavelengths also make it highly effective for treating vascular lesions (spider veins, broken capillaries, rosacea), pigmented lesions (sun spots, age spots, freckles), and even skin rejuvenation. This versatility is one reason why it's found in top dermatology clinics and medical spas worldwide.
DiolazeXL: The Speed and Comfort Champion
The DiolazeXL is manufactured by InMode, a leading innovator in medical aesthetics technology. While the GentleMax Pro is the versatility king, the DiolazeXL has carved out its reputation as the fastest, most comfortable diode laser on the market — and when you're treating large body areas, speed and comfort make all the difference.
DiolazeXL Key Specifications
The 810nm Diode Wavelength
The DiolazeXL uses an 810nm diode wavelength, which sits in the sweet spot between the Alexandrite (755nm) and Nd:YAG (1064nm). This wavelength offers an excellent balance of melanin absorption and penetration depth, making it effective across a wide range of skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–V). The 810nm diode is one of the most widely studied and validated wavelengths in the laser hair removal industry, with decades of clinical data supporting its efficacy and safety.
Largest Spot Size in the Industry
One of the DiolazeXL's most significant advantages is its industry-leading spot size. The treatment handpiece covers a larger area per pulse than virtually any other laser on the market. What does this mean for you? Faster treatments. A full leg session that might take 30–40 minutes on other lasers can be completed in 15–20 minutes with the DiolazeXL. For busy Calgary women who value their time, this is a major selling point.
Sapphire Cooling Tip
The DiolazeXL features a built-in sapphire cooling tip that makes constant contact with your skin throughout the treatment. Unlike the GentleMax Pro's cryogen spray (which cools momentarily before each pulse), the sapphire tip provides continuous cooling throughout the entire session. Many clients report that DiolazeXL treatments feel more comfortable than other laser systems, describing the sensation as a warm snap rather than the sharp sting associated with older technology.
Ideal for Large Body Areas
The combination of its large spot size, high repetition rate, and comfortable sapphire cooling makes the DiolazeXL the ideal choice for treating large body areas like full legs, back, chest, and full body sessions. It excels at covering ground quickly without sacrificing efficacy — making it one of our most popular options for clients booking full body laser hair removal packages in Calgary.
Head-to-Head Comparison: GentleMax Pro vs DiolazeXL
Here is a detailed side-by-side comparison of the two best laser hair removal technologies available at Lavish Beauty in Calgary. Use this table to understand the key differences and see which system aligns best with your needs.
| Feature | GentleMax Pro | DiolazeXL |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Candela (Syneron-Candela) | InMode |
| Wavelength(s) | 755nm Alexandrite + 1064nm Nd:YAG | 810nm Diode |
| Number of Wavelengths | Dual (2) | Single (1) |
| Spot Size | Up to 24mm | Largest in the industry |
| Treatment Speed | Moderate — excellent for precision areas | Very fast — ideal for large body areas |
| Pain Level / Comfort | Comfortable (DCD cryogen spray) | Very comfortable (continuous sapphire cooling) |
| Skin Tones Supported | Fitzpatrick I–VI (all skin tones) | Fitzpatrick I–V |
| Best for Body Areas | Face, bikini, underarms, small/medium areas | Full legs, back, arms, large body areas |
| Cooling Technology | Dynamic Cooling Device (cryogen spray) | Built-in sapphire cooling tip |
| Sessions Needed | 6–8 sessions | 6–8 sessions |
| Additional Uses | Vascular lesions, pigmented lesions, skin rejuvenation | Hair removal focused |
| FDA Cleared | Yes | Yes |
As you can see, neither laser is universally “better” than the other. They each have distinct strengths, and the ideal choice depends entirely on your specific needs. This is exactly why Lavish Beauty invested in both systems — so we can match the right technology to each client rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all approach.
Which Laser for Which Skin Type: Fitzpatrick Scale Breakdown
Your skin tone is one of the most critical factors in determining which laser will deliver the safest, most effective results. The Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale classifies skin into six categories based on how it responds to UV exposure. Here's how each laser performs across the scale:
Fitzpatrick Type I — Very Fair Skin
Always burns, never tans. Very light skin, often with red or blonde hair.
Best laser: GentleMax Pro (755nm Alexandrite) or DiolazeXL — both excellent choices.
Fitzpatrick Type II — Fair Skin
Usually burns, tans minimally. Fair skin with light eyes.
Best laser: GentleMax Pro (755nm Alexandrite) or DiolazeXL — both deliver outstanding results.
Fitzpatrick Type III — Medium Skin
Sometimes burns, tans uniformly. Common among Mediterranean, some Asian, and some Latin backgrounds.
Best laser: Either laser works well. DiolazeXL offers excellent speed; GentleMax Pro provides wavelength flexibility.
Fitzpatrick Type IV — Olive / Moderate Brown Skin
Rarely burns, tans easily. Common among South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Hispanic backgrounds.
Best laser: GentleMax Pro (1064nm Nd:YAG) is the safer, more effective option. DiolazeXL can also be used with adjusted settings.
Fitzpatrick Type V — Dark Brown Skin
Very rarely burns, tans very easily. Common among South Asian, East African, and some African-American backgrounds.
Best laser: GentleMax Pro (1064nm Nd:YAG) is strongly recommended. The longer wavelength bypasses epidermal melanin safely.
Fitzpatrick Type VI — Very Dark / Black Skin
Never burns. Deeply pigmented skin.
Best laser: GentleMax Pro (1064nm Nd:YAG) is the only safe and effective option. DiolazeXL is generally not recommended for Type VI skin.
Important Takeaway
If you have dark skin (Fitzpatrick V–VI), the GentleMax Pro's 1064nm Nd:YAG wavelength is essential for safe, effective treatment. Many Calgary clinics only carry diode or Alexandrite lasers and cannot safely treat darker skin tones. At Lavish Beauty, we never compromise on safety — and having the GentleMax Pro means we can treat every skin tone with confidence. Learn more in our guide to laser hair removal for dark skin in Calgary.
Which Laser for Which Body Area
Different body areas have different requirements when it comes to laser hair removal. Hair thickness, skin sensitivity, and the size of the treatment zone all factor into which laser will produce the best results. Here is our expert recommendation by body area:
Face (Upper Lip, Chin, Sideburns)
The face requires precision and sensitivity. Facial hair tends to be finer, and the skin is more delicate with more nerve endings.
Recommended: GentleMax Pro — the smaller spot size allows for precise targeting around facial contours, and the DCD provides excellent comfort on sensitive facial skin.
Underarms
A relatively small treatment area with coarse, dark hair — ideal conditions for laser treatment. The underarm is also one of the most sensitive areas.
Recommended: Either laser works beautifully. The GentleMax Pro offers precision; the DiolazeXL offers continuous cooling comfort.
Bikini Line and Brazilian
The bikini area has coarse hair and sensitive skin, requiring a laser that balances efficacy with comfort. Read our full guide to Brazilian laser hair removal in Calgary.
Recommended: GentleMax Pro — precision targeting and DCD cooling are ideal for this sensitive, contoured area. The Nd:YAG wavelength is essential for darker-skinned clients in this zone.
Full Legs
Large treatment area with variable hair density. Speed is a significant factor when treating the full legs.
Recommended: DiolazeXL — the large spot size and fast repetition rate cut treatment time dramatically. Clients can be in and out in under 20 minutes per leg.
Full Arms
Another large surface area with typically finer hair. Speed and coverage are key.
Recommended: DiolazeXL — the fast coverage makes it the efficient choice for this large, relatively flat treatment zone.
Back and Chest
The largest treatment areas on the body. These areas benefit enormously from fast-coverage technology.
Recommended: DiolazeXL — its industry-leading spot size was built for exactly this type of large-area treatment.
Full Body
For full body sessions, we often use both lasers in a single appointment — the GentleMax Pro for precision areas (face, bikini) and the DiolazeXL for large areas (legs, arms, back).
Recommended: Dual-laser approach. This is one of the biggest advantages of choosing a clinic like Lavish Beauty that has both systems.
Why Lavish Beauty Offers Both Lasers
Most laser clinics in Calgary carry one laser system. They may have a great machine, but they're limited to the strengths (and bound by the limitations) of that single platform. At Lavish Beauty, we made a deliberate investment in both the GentleMax Pro and the DiolazeXL because we believe in a customized, client-first approach.
The Lavish Beauty Dual-Laser Advantage:
- • Treat every skin tone safely: From the fairest to the darkest skin, we have the right wavelength. No client is ever turned away because of their skin type.
- • Customize by body area: We use the GentleMax Pro where precision matters (face, bikini) and the DiolazeXL where speed matters (legs, arms, back) — giving you the best of both worlds in a single visit.
- • Maximize comfort: Some clients find the DCD cryogen spray more comfortable; others prefer the continuous sapphire cooling. Having both options means we can tailor the experience to your preferences.
- • Better results, fewer sessions: By selecting the optimal laser for each area and skin type, we achieve superior hair reduction in fewer sessions — saving you time and money. Learn more about how many sessions you actually need.
- • Address multiple concerns: The GentleMax Pro can also treat vascular and pigmented lesions, so we can address skin concerns beyond just hair removal.
When you book your laser hair removal treatment in Calgary at Lavish Beauty, your technician will assess your skin type, hair type, and treatment goals during a thorough consultation. Based on that assessment, they'll recommend the ideal laser (or combination of lasers) for your unique needs. There is no extra charge for either laser — you always get the best technology for your situation at the same transparent price.
This dual-laser approach is one of the reasons Lavish Beauty has earned 500+ five-star reviews from Calgary clients. Our commitment to investing in the best technology — and training our technicians to use it expertly — sets us apart from clinics that rely on a single, one-size-fits-all system. For details on our services and pricing, visit our laser hair removal services page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GentleMax Pro better than the DiolazeXL?
Neither laser is universally “better” — they excel in different areas. The GentleMax Pro is superior for darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick V–VI) and precision work on the face and bikini area thanks to its dual wavelengths. The DiolazeXL is the faster, more comfortable option for large body areas like legs and back. At Lavish Beauty, we recommend the best laser for your specific situation rather than defaulting to one system.
Which laser hurts less — GentleMax Pro or DiolazeXL?
Both lasers are considered very comfortable compared to older technology. The DiolazeXL's continuous sapphire cooling tip tends to be rated as slightly more comfortable by most clients because the cooling is constant rather than pulsed. However, pain tolerance is subjective, and many clients find the GentleMax Pro's DCD cryogen spray to be equally comfortable. Both are dramatically more comfortable than waxing. Read our laser vs waxing comparison for more details.
Can you use both lasers on me in the same session?
Yes, absolutely. This is one of the biggest advantages of choosing Lavish Beauty. For clients booking multiple areas or full body sessions, we frequently use the GentleMax Pro for precision areas (face, bikini) and the DiolazeXL for larger areas (legs, arms) — all within the same appointment. This dual-laser approach maximizes both efficiency and results.
I have dark skin. Can I still get laser hair removal?
Yes. The GentleMax Pro's 1064nm Nd:YAG wavelength was specifically designed to safely and effectively treat dark and very dark skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV–VI). This wavelength bypasses the melanin in the outer layer of skin and targets the hair follicle directly. At Lavish Beauty, we have extensive experience treating all skin tones and ethnicities. However, not all clinics in Calgary have this capability — always confirm that a clinic has an Nd:YAG laser before booking if you have darker skin.
How many sessions will I need with either laser?
Both the GentleMax Pro and DiolazeXL typically require 6 to 8 sessions for optimal results, spaced 4–8 weeks apart depending on the body area. This is because hair grows in cycles, and each session targets only the follicles in the active growth (anagen) phase. After completing the initial series, most clients need only 1–2 maintenance sessions per year. For a detailed breakdown, see our guide on how many laser hair removal sessions you need.
Are the GentleMax Pro and DiolazeXL FDA-cleared?
Yes. Both the Candela GentleMax Pro and InMode DiolazeXL are FDA-cleared for laser hair removal and permanent hair reduction. FDA clearance means the devices have undergone rigorous safety and efficacy testing. At Lavish Beauty, we only invest in FDA-cleared, medical-grade technology — we never use IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) devices, which are less effective and not true lasers.
How much does laser hair removal cost at Lavish Beauty?
Pricing at Lavish Beauty starts from just $25 per session for small areas like the upper lip, up to $499 for a full body session. Both lasers are included at the same price — there is no upcharge for the GentleMax Pro or DiolazeXL. For a complete pricing breakdown, see our 2026 laser hair removal cost guide for Calgary.
Not Sure Which Laser Is Right for You?
Book a free consultation at Lavish Beauty in NE Calgary and let our experienced technicians assess your skin type, hair type, and treatment goals. We'll recommend the ideal laser — or combination of lasers — for your unique needs. With 500+ five-star reviews and dual GentleMax Pro + DiolazeXL technology, you're in the best hands in Calgary.
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