GentleWaves
GentleWaves is low intensity LED photomodulation for skin rejuvenation and healing. A patented cascade of pulsed light stimulates collagen production and cellular activity with no heat, no irritation, and no downtime. The LED exposure itself lasts about 30 seconds, the whole visit only a few minutes, and it is completely painless.
What isGentleWaves?
GentleWaves is FDA cleared LED photomodulation. Rather than heating the skin the way lasers do, its patented pulse modulation system delivers a precisely timed cascade of light energy that mimics the skin's own natural light energy cascade, which is what separates it from ordinary LED panels.
The light works at the cellular level. It targets the mitochondria inside skin cells, boosting ATP production, the cell's energy currency, which accelerates tissue repair and renewal and nudges the skin to build collagen and elastin. Fine lines soften, texture and tone improve, and redness and inflammation calm down.
Because there is no thermal damage, a session is effortless: no numbing, no recovery, no photosensitivity, about 30 seconds under the light. We use it as a standalone collagen booster, as a calming rosacea friendly treatment, and to speed healing after lasers, microneedling, and injectables. Our practice was among the first in the region to adopt it.
Who is GentleWaves for?
GentleWaves is for people who want a gentle, cumulative collagen boost with no discomfort and no recovery.
Pregnant or nursing patients should check with their physician first; it is considered very safe, but that conversation belongs with your doctor. For everyone else, a consultation simply sets the schedule.
Early signs of aging are appearing
Fine lines and early laxity respond to steady collagen and elastin stimulation over a series.
Your skin is sensitive or redness prone
GentleWaves calms inflammation rather than provoking it, making it a favorite for rosacea prone skin.
You are healing from another treatment
After lasers, microneedling, or injectables, photomodulation accelerates tissue repair.
You have a deeper skin tone
Safe and effective for all Fitzpatrick types, with no pigmentation risk.
You want maintenance, not a project
Sessions take minutes, fit any schedule, and work for men and women as a long term skin upkeep routine.
Where GentleWavesworks
GentleWaves treats anywhere skin shows its age or needs a collagen boost: most often the face, neck, chest, and hands.
Select an area on the figure to see what the light does there.
Whatto expect.
Book a consultationPricing varies with the number of sessions and any treatments it is combined with, so we quote it personally at your consultation.
The LED exposure lasts about 30 seconds and the full visit only a few minutes. You are in and out quickly.
No downtime and no photosensitivity. A slight flush can appear and fades within minutes; normal skincare and sun routines resume right away.
A subtle glow can show after the first sessions, with visible improvement over several weeks as collagen rebuilds. Plans run 8 to 10 sessions, weekly or bi-weekly, with maintenance every few weeks.
Frequently asked questions
How many treatments will I need?
A typical series is 8 to 10 sessions, scheduled weekly or bi-weekly, with maintenance visits every few weeks after that.
Is GentleWaves painful?
Not at all. Most patients feel nothing beyond a slight warmth or light sensation. No numbing is needed.
How long does a session take?
The LED exposure is about 30 seconds, and the whole visit takes only a few minutes.
Is there any downtime?
None. A slight flush can appear and fades within minutes, and you can resume your normal skincare and sun routine right away.
When will I see results?
Some patients notice a subtle glow after the first session. Visible improvement builds over several weeks as collagen rebuilds.
Are there side effects?
GentleWaves is extremely safe with virtually no side effects, and it is well tolerated even by sensitive and freshly treated skin.
Is it safe for darker skin tones?
Yes. It is safe and effective for all Fitzpatrick skin types, with no pigmentation risk.
Can it help with acne or rosacea?
It is not a primary acne treatment, but it calms inflammation and redness, which makes it a good fit for rosacea prone skin.
Can I combine it with other treatments?
Yes. It pairs well with microneedling, HydraFacials, peels, and laser treatments, and it enhances healing after them.
What makes it different from other LED therapies?
Its patented pulse modulation delivers light in a cascade that mimics the skin's natural light energy response, treating the skin without overstimulating or irritating it.
What areas can be treated?
The face, neck, chest, and hands, or anywhere skin is showing signs of aging and needs a collagen boost.
Is it safe during pregnancy?
It is considered very safe, but pregnant or nursing patients should consult their physician before treatment.
Ask about your skin.
Tell us what you would like to change and we will come back with the treatments that fit, honest expectations, and a time to talk it through.
Your details go straight to our Montgomery Road front desk and are never shared. A team member replies during office hours, usually the same day.
Ready when you are.
Book a consultation at our Montgomery Road office, or call and we will help you decide where to start.
Medically reviewed by Shalini Gupta, MD, Harvard-trained dermatologist and founder of The Dermatology, Laser & Vein Center. Last reviewed September 2026. This page is for education and is not a substitute for a personalized medical consultation.