Overview

Essentially Bare Laser Medspa is an established independent laser clinic with over 25 years of experience serving the Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts area since 1999 (originally 2000). Founded by Kellyann McGrady-Cirafice and currently led by President Kelly Cirafice with medical oversight by Dr. Selim R. Chakar, MD and Dr. Joseph Russo, MD, the practice specializes in laser tattoo removal, laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation and tightening, injectables, and advanced aesthetic treatments utilizing state-of-the-art FDA-approved equipment across two convenient locations.

About the Clinic

Essentially Bare Laser Medspa was founded in 1999/2000 by Kellyann McGrady-Cirafice, establishing the Cambridge location as among the first of its kind offering state-of-the-art laser hair removal technology in the Boston area. The company was officially incorporated in Massachusetts in 2000. As the aesthetic industry evolved, the practice expanded services to include comprehensive skin treatments—tattoo and wrinkle removal, sunspot correction, and advanced medical services including Botox and dermal fillers. President Kelly Cirafice leads operations with Medical Directors Dr. Selim R. Chakar, MD and Dr. Joseph Russo, MD providing physician oversight. The practice employs a highly experienced team of certified professionals, many with over eight years tenure, ensuring consistent, top-notch care. Kelly (often referred to by clients) is particularly praised for professionalism and expertise across treatments. The practice philosophy emphasizes honest, transparent service without commissioned staff, never “selling” unnecessary treatments or overstating results—customized consultations (complimentary) are required for all clients to develop personalized treatment plans matching unique concerns and skin types. Over 25 years, Essentially Bare has treated 9,000+ men and women across all skin types and body areas for permanent hair removal and aesthetic concerns. The team’s extensive training in medical aesthetics, combined with Kelly’s passion for staying at forefront of latest technologies, has enabled introduction of innovations including high-speed, virtually pain-free laser hair removal systems treating areas like full male backs or lower legs in just 20 minutes. Services encompass laser tattoo removal (Q-Switched Spectra ND:YAG dual-mode laser utilizing multiple high-intensity pulses treating all ink colors in fewer sessions), laser hair removal and electrolysis (permanent hair reduction for all skin types), injectables (Botox, Restylane, Radiesse dermal fillers), fractional resurfacing (Fraxel), skin tightening and cellulite reduction (Viora ReLift system for stomach, arms, saddlebags, thighs, love handles), RF microneedling, physician-grade microdermabrasion, condition-specific chemical peels (including Perfect Derma Peel), cosmetic spider vein removal (Lutronic Clarity Laser—specialized service many medspas don’t offer), photofacials (IPL), carbon laser peel/oxygen facials, advanced facial treatments, medical weight loss management (FDA-approved Semaglutide injections, personalized dosing, telehealth support, 3-month delivery), and OBAGI & IMAGE skincare products. The practice operates two locations: Cambridge at 777 Concord Avenue Suite 102, Cambridge, MA 02138, and Boston at 696 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02118 (South End, relocated from Clarendon Street after COVID). As of March 20, 2024, tattoo removal treatments expanded to the Boston location. Cambridge phone: (617) 876-1500; additional number (617) 876-5258; fax (617) 876-1803. The practice fosters long-term relationships with patients, many trusting Essentially Bare for over a decade—10+ year clients are common. Flexible scheduling accommodates busy lifestyles. Online booking provides convenient appointment management. Pricing emphasizes value, with Kelly offering competitive “until gone” packages for tattoo removal (example: heavily inked tattoo removal package ~$1,000 vs. $2,000-$3,000 quotes from competitors). Pay-as-you-go options avoid pressure of large contracts. Free consultations establish expectations. The practice accepts all major credit cards, offers connecting lot parking at Cambridge location, and provides bike racks. Strictly appointment-only to maintain timely workflow. The relaxing spa environment combines state-of-the-art technology with personalized treatment plans delivering one-of-a-kind experiences. Clean, sterile office environments consistently praised. CareCredit financing available. BBB file opened, though some customer complaints exist regarding chemical peel burns. Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering oversight: 1000 Washington Street 7th Floor, Boston MA 02118, Phone: 617-727-9940.

What Clients Are Saying

Clients consistently praise Essentially Bare’s longevity and trustworthiness, with numerous reviewers noting “I have been a client of Essentially bare for over 10 years” for hair removal and tattoo removal, expressing complete satisfaction with results. The staff receives universal acclaim as “awesome” with “all my questions are answered,” providing “honesty, great work and a very clean environment” that keeps clients loyal across both Cambridge and Boston (Newbury Street) locations. Kelly receives specific, enthusiastic praise as “awesome” and “my go-to girl,” with one client detailing: “I have had a few different treatments and all were great and professionally done. The Carbon facial is one of my favorites, not to mention laser hair removal, but what I appreciated most was tattoo removal. I had a heavily inked tattoo which took many treatments to remove. I received quotes upward of $2-3,000 from other clinics, but Kelly offered me the ‘until gone’ package for ~$1,000 and I couldn’t be happier.” The office cleanliness and sterile environment receive repeated recognition, with the “ease of online booking” adding convenience. Clients describe the team as “always attentive and very careful, also very thorough with explanations and the procedure itself,” particularly valuable for first-time treatment recipients who appreciate detailed information and reassessment as sessions progress. The transgender community specifically notes feeling “fully supported by their whole team” with staff making “an effort to build personal relationships with their clients.” Long-distance clients who’ve relocated still order skincare products from Essentially Bare “because they know their stuff.” The Boston location is described as a “Little Gem in the South End” with clients glad to have found them again after the post-COVID relocation from Clarendon Street. The practice’s integrity receives specific mention: “never trying to ‘sell’ you on treatments that don’t suit your needs or overstate results,” with team members walking clients “through every stage of your personalized treatment plan, offering clear guidance and setting realistic expectations.” The combination of “friendly, knowledgeable staff, reasonable prices, clean, and comfortable” environment creates comprehensive positive experiences. Treatment effectiveness particularly impresses: tattoo removal achieves dramatic fading, hair removal delivers permanent reduction, and new laser equipment continually improves experiences. Trust emerges as the dominant theme: “Honestly, it’s the only place I trust” for procedures.

Laser Type Used

Q-Switched Spectra ND:YAG Laser (Lutronic)
The Q-Switched Spectra ND:YAG laser system represents advanced technology for professional tattoo removal, utilizing multiple high-intensity pulses to efficiently break down tattoo ink particles through photomechanical action. This medical-grade laser operates with ultra-short nanosecond pulse durations, delivering concentrated energy bursts that shatter ink pigments into microscopic fragments small enough for the body’s lymphatic system to absorb and eliminate naturally over subsequent weeks. The dual-mode Spectra system features multiple wavelengths optimized for targeting different ink colors: the 1064nm wavelength effectively treats darker inks including blacks, blues, and greens, while the 532nm wavelength targets lighter colors such as reds, oranges, and yellows. The system’s capability to treat all ink colors across all skin types makes it suitable for diverse patient populations, with adjustable parameters ensuring safe, effective treatment for both light and dark complexions. Clinical studies demonstrate that Q-Switched technology achieves tattoo removal in fewer sessions compared to older laser methods, reducing overall treatment time and cost while minimizing risk of scarring or permanent pigmentation changes. The precision targeting leaves surrounding skin unharmed, focusing thermal and mechanical energy exclusively on ink particles to maximize removal efficacy while protecting healthy tissue. Treatment sessions typically last 5-15 minutes depending on tattoo size and complexity, with topical numbing cream and advanced cooling technology significantly reducing discomfort during procedures. Most patients require multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart to allow the body’s immune system to process fragmented ink particles, with visible fading typically appearing after initial treatments and significant clearance achieved across a treatment series customized to individual tattoo characteristics including age, ink density, colors used, and depth.

Business Hours

**Cambridge Location (777 Concord Ave, Suite 102):**
Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (some sources indicate 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (some sources indicate 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Thursday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (some sources indicate 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (some sources indicate 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (some sources indicate 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
Sunday: Closed
Boston Location (696 Tremont St):
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Note: Hours may vary between locations and may have been updated. Please call (617) 876-1500 to confirm current hours before visiting.

Unique Features

Essentially Bare’s 25+ year history (established 1999/2000) makes them one of the Boston area’s longest-operating independent laser clinics, providing unmatched institutional knowledge and refined treatment protocols developed across thousands of patient cases. The founder Kelly Cirafice’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technology ensures clients access the latest innovations, from high-speed pain-free laser hair removal systems to advanced Q-Switched Spectra tattoo removal and Lutronic Clarity spider vein treatments. The non-commissioned staff structure eliminates sales pressure, with honest treatment recommendations based solely on client needs rather than revenue targets—a rarity in the aesthetic industry where commissioned sales drive many practices. The long-term staff retention (many employees 8+ years) creates continuity of care with familiar, experienced clinicians who know returning clients’ histories and preferences. The “until gone” tattoo removal packages at significantly lower prices ($1,000 vs. $2,000-$3,000 competitor quotes) demonstrate commitment to accessibility over profit maximization. The two-location model (Cambridge and Boston) provides geographic convenience for Greater Boston residents, with the Cambridge location offering ample connecting lot parking addressing urban parking challenges. The trans-inclusive, LGBTQ+-friendly environment where clients feel “fully supported” demonstrates commitment to serving diverse communities. The strictly appointment-only model prevents walk-in chaos while ensuring adequate time for each client. The extensive service menu combining tattoo removal, hair removal, skin rejuvenation, injectables, medical weight loss, and specialized treatments like spider vein removal under one roof eliminates need for multiple providers. The medical oversight by board-certified physicians (Dr. Chakar, Dr. Russo) ensures safety protocols exceed typical day spa standards. The high-speed laser systems treating large areas (full back, lower legs) in 20 minutes address time constraints that prevent many people from pursuing treatments. The complimentary consultations with no obligation remove financial barriers to exploring treatment options. The online booking system provides 24/7 scheduling convenience. The CareCredit financing acceptance makes larger treatment packages accessible through monthly payments. The OBAGI and IMAGE medical-grade skincare product lines extend professional-quality care into home routines. The Perfect Derma Peel and advanced facial treatments position the practice beyond basic laser services into comprehensive skin health. The medical weight loss program with FDA-approved Semaglutide, personalized dosing, and telehealth support addresses the growing demand for GLP-1 weight management under medical supervision. The specialized spider vein removal capability using Lutronic Clarity Laser fills a niche many competing medspas don’t offer. The practice’s willingness to treat heavily inked tattoos requiring extensive sessions (which some providers decline due to complexity) demonstrates technical confidence and commitment to difficult cases. The carbon facial (carbon laser peel) offering no-downtime rejuvenation suits busy professionals. The seasonal promotional pricing (Perfect Derma Peel $259 vs. $350 regular, Microdermabrasion $99 vs. $150 regular) makes advanced treatments accessible during promotional periods.