Candela Announces FDA Clearance of Breakthrough Laser Treatment for Acne; Industry's First Approved Laser for Facial Acne Gives Millions of Acne Sufferers Hope.

Business Editors/Health/Medical Writers

WAYLAND, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 24, 2003

Candela Corporation (NASDAQ: CLZR) announced today that it has received expanded clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market its Smoothbeam(TM) diode laser for the non-invasive treatment of acne adding to the previously approved treatments of back acne, acne scars and wrinkles.

Gerard E. Puorro, Candela's President and Chief Executive Officer, said, "Patients, who have experienced physical and social trauma from acne, especially facial acne, can now receive safe and effective, non-invasive treatment from Smoothbeam during a few visits to their physician's office and without taking prescribed medications."

Acne affects roughly 80 percent of the population worldwide in some form, is the most commonly diagnosed skin disorder in the U.S. and is the #1 reason why patients visit a dermatologist. Acne can have a crippling effect on a patient's self esteem and is often a source of anxiety, low self-confidence and even depression.

Acne is caused by an enlargement of the sebaceous follicles, which contain oil-producing sebaceous glands, the root cause of acne. A serious skin disorder, acne often goes untreated resulting in pain, debilitating scar formations and skin damage. For years, traditional oral and topical acne treatments haven't treated the direct source of acne - overactive, oil producing sebaceous glands. Frustrated patients have long been searching for alternatives to the traditional acne treatment methods, which have been known to cause side effects. Now, the Smoothbeam laser offers a long-term solution by directly altering the structure and function of the sebaceous glands, which drastically reduces acne lesions without significant side effects.

Tina S. Alster M.D., Director, Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery and a world-renowned lecturer on cosmetic laser surgery, was one of the first physicians to use this breakthrough treatment. "After a series of treatments with Smoothbeam, patients experienced dramatic improvement in the reduction of acne lesions," said Dr. Alster. "I found it to be a safe and cost-effective treatment that dramatically changed the patients' lives for the better."

"I couldn't believe the difference after using Smoothbeam - not only me, but my family and everyone noticed," said Stella Petrakis, a Smoothbeam patient from New York City. "I don't wear makeup anymore, no more cover up. I don't have to use it," continued Petrakis. "I'm very, very happy with the results. Excellent - I recommend it to anyone."

About Smoothbeam:

Smoothbeam creates a mild thermal injury just below the skin's surface, which alters the structure of the sebaceous glands, the root cause of acne. This allows for effective, long-lasting acne clearance. Smoothbeam emits a wavelength of light that is strongly absorbed by water in the skin. As the laser penetrates into the skin, heat is generated in and around the sebaceous glands in the upper layers of the skin. The integrated dynamic cooling device (DCD(TM)) also emits a cooling spray, which allows preservation of the skin, thus minimizing treatment side effects. For more information about this treatment and how to locate a physician, call: 1-800-733-8550, ext 444.

About Candela:

Candela Corporation develops, manufactures, and distributes innovative clinical solutions that enable physicians, surgeons, and personal care practitioners to treat selected cosmetic and medical conditions using lasers, aesthetic laser systems, and other advanced technologies. Founded near Boston in 1970, the company markets and services its products in over 60 countries from offices in the United States, Europe, Japan and other Asian locations. Candela established the aesthetic laser market 15 years ago, and currently has an installed base of over 6,500 lasers worldwide. Candela is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, M/F/H/V. Visit Candela on the Web at http://www.candelalaser.com.

Safe Harbor Statement: Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements that constitute Candela's current intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations or predictions of the future, which are therefore inherently subject to risks and uncertainties. Candela's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in Candela's forward-looking statements based on various factors, including without limitation: the cancellation or deferral of customer orders, dependence on a small number of strategic distribution relationships, difficulties in the timely development and market acceptance of new products, market developments that vary from the current public expectations concerning the growth of the laser industry, increased competitive pressures, or changes in economic conditions. Further information on factors that could affect Candela's performance is included in Candela's periodic reports filed with the SEC, including but not limited to, Candela's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 28, 2003 and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Candela cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Candela expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any such statements to reflect any change in Candela's expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.