Let’s be honest, some of the treatments your favorite celebrities get can seem out of reach. However, Cutera’s Laser Genesis is accessible, safe for all skin tones, requires no downtime*, and is the perfect prep tool for an event. Whether you’re a star prepping for a movie premiere or a mother of the bride hoping to look your best on the big day, Laser Genesis is a top option. We talked to San Francisco board-certified dermatologist Kaveri Karhade, MD, who performs the treatment regularly, about everything you need to know before making an appointment.
What is Laser Genesis?
Laser Genesis is a laser treatment that delivers gentle laser energy to help activate collagen production through the 1064 nm wavelength, producing a visible glow with virtually no downtime.* “It’s a no-brainer go-to treatment because it globally helps a multitude of skin concerns at once safely,” says Dr. Karhade.
The benefits of Laser Genesis
Dr. Karhade uses Laser Genesis to diffuse redness, rosacea and post-acne erythema, treat uneven texture and minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines, improving overall skin quality. She says it’s also great for calming reactive, acne-prone skin and reviving a dull, tired complexion.
Other benefits include “noticeable radiance and smoother texture with no downtime* and gradual collagen remodeling for softer lines and subtle firming,” says Dr. Karhade. She adds that after a series of Laser Genesis treatments, makeup application is smoother, and the skin has a more even texture visible both in person and on camera. Since it’s a safe, comfortable, and repeatable option, Dr. Karhade notes that it’s great for maintenance.
After one to two sessions, you’ll notice a healthy glow and smoother makeup wear, says Dr. Karhade. After a series of treatments, you can expect “reduced redness, refined pores, more even tone, softer fine lines, and subtle tightening from collagen stimulation.” She notes that “With maintenance, results are very consistent and cumulative.”
Laser Genesis is a perfect pre-event treatment
“Unlike many other laser treatments, Laser Genesis produces results quickly. The ‘glow’ is apparent almost immediately after and the following day. I use it for my patients frequently before events,” says Dr. Karhade. She adds that it’s a great option for people looking for “brighter, smoother, more even skin without downtime*—especially professionals who need to look good on-camera or at events.”
Dr. Karhade notes that patients are generally thrilled with their results, with one noting their “makeup goes on like glass after Laser Genesis” and another stating “I get a believable glow—people think I slept better, not that I had a treatment.”
Is Laser Genesis safe for all skin types?
“When performed by an experienced provider using the 1064 nm Laser Genesis setting and conservative parameters, yes—I treat Fitzpatrick I–VI routinely,” says Dr. Karhade. “Because 1064 nm has lower melanin absorption than visible wavelengths, the risk of pigmentary side effects is reduced,” she explains. She notes that one of her patients, who is a Fitzpatrick V, tends to be careful with lasers, but Laser Genesis helped their “skin look fresher without lightening or irritation.
What to expect during and after a Laser Genesis treatment
“A face treatment is typically 20 to 30 minutes. Patients describe a gentle, toasty warmth—no numbing needed,” says Dr. Karhade. Most patients are slightly pink for 15 to 60 minutes but can return to normal activities immediately.
What’s the ideal treatment timeline?
“For best results, I recommend a series of four to six sessions spaced two to four weeks apart, then maintenance every one to three months,” says Dr. Karhade. For an event, Dr. Karhade recommends scheduling a session a day or two prior to allow the pinkness to settle and the glow to maximize.
Look your best for life’s big days and all the ones in between—find a Laser Genesis provider near you.
* Downtime and individual experiences may vary.
Indications for Use: The xeo+, excel V+ and excel HR (1064 nm Nd:YAG – Laser Genesis Treatment) is indicated for: removal of unwanted hair; stable long-term, or permanent hair reduction through selective targeting of melanin in hair follicles; treatment of pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB); coagulation and hemostasis of benign vascular lesions such as, but not limited to, hemangiomas, port wine stains, telangiectasias, rosacea, venous lakes, leg veins, spider veins and poikiloderma of Civatte; treatment of wrinkles such as, but not limited to, periocular and perioral wrinkles; reduction of red pigmentation in hypertrophic scars where vascularity is an integral part of the scar; treatment of warts; treatment of mild to moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris. Important Safety Information: The following treatment-related expected transient side effects and possible adverse events may occur during or following treatment with xeo+, excel V+ and excel HR (1064 nm Nd:YAG – Laser Genesis Treatment): Erythema; Edema; Purpura; Hyperpigmentation; Hypopigmentation; Burns; Erosion; Epidermal crusting; Blistering; Scarring; Deep tissue injury; Prolonged wound healing; Temporary or permanent gray hair; Stimulation of terminal hair growth; Undesired hair loss in hair-bearing areas; Red rash/bumps; Hemosiderin staining; Textural changes; Cutaneous indentations; Itching/dry skin; Sun exposure, tanning beds, and artificial tanning mat increase the risk of side effects and adverse events. Some discomfort may be experienced during treatment. Pain may include the feeling of burning, stinging, and radiating pain. Contraindications: Pregnant patients; patients undergoing treatment for skin cancer. In Canada, contraindications also include dysplastic nevi; Accutane if taken in the prior 6 months; photosensitizing drugs (Tetracycline, etc.); bleeding disorders or history of coagulopathies. Warnings: Do not treat over dysplastic nevi or questionable pigmented lesions. Do not treat over open wounds. Do not treat over or close to tattoos or permanent make-up. Do not treat over or close to metal or electronic implants. Do not treat over tanned skin. Treatment of tanned skin should be delayed to avoid complications.
