Toronto Dermatology Centre

Dr. Maxwell Sauder has been my outstanding go to dermatologist for several years. Extremely knowledgable and helpful!

I was referred to Dr. Rajan by my family doctor because I had a small bump on my face that he thought might be a basal or squamish cell. I also have several other spots of potential concern, one recently noticed bump on my scalp. Dr. Rajan noticed another small spot on my nose. They we able to biopsy the scalp and nose. The other spots were deemed to be "marks of wisdom", requiring no action. The biopsy was done very promptly with no pain or suffering and I was given clear instructions for the healing process. The clinic is spacious and comfortable and well organised. I can highly recommend the clinic and Dr. Rajan. LM

Had an appointment at 2, arrived ahead of time, but still kept on waiting, was not even acknowledged by staff about the waiting time, all the other patients were attended, certainly will not come back. When asked from receptionist, she was very rude, told me that there are many doctors in the clinic.

The staff at the Toronto Dermatology Center are very friendly and accomodating. My special thank you to Dr. Norman Wasel for his thorough assessment of my situation and prompt action.

The dermatologist that I seen here has a poor background in topical steroid withdrawal and alternative cream withdrawals like Protopic. They'll prescribe it like candy & confuse steroid withdrawal with true eczema. Educating the patients about the harms of topical steroids and protopic is critical in 2022, the side affects are clear. The doctors here need to educate themselves and their clients how these creams have destroyed millions of lives for generations. The updated data, science and education support this. Do everything you can to educate yourself and research topical steroid withdrawal- red skin syndrome- topical steroid addiction and steroid withdrawal.

I gave a 1 because there was no option for 0 stars. We need to move forward & hold these doctors accountable to higher practice standards.

Update: I see your post below and am waiting for your call back.

From start to finish, the experience was smooth. I checked into my appointment, and spoke to the receptionist. Within minutes, I was in the doctor's exam room speaking to Dr. Sauder. Right on time, exactly at the time of my appointment. The doctor was kind, explained everything clearly, and was warm and approachable. He recommended I have some small moles removed, wherein which I suspected it would be another appointment, and another few weeks of waiting. Instead, I was brought to the other room where a very friendly individual completed the procedure quickly, painlessly, and explained every step. I was in and out in 30 minutes with moles removed, prescriptions in hand. Great experience, even for someone like myself who gets nervous about doctor appointments. Thank you! -Matt D.

Loved our visit to the TDC. Very pleasantly greeted with smiles by the staff. We got in very quickly to see Dr. Upitis. She was so friendly informative and positive.
Thank you, TDC staff and Dr. Upitis.

Wasn't impressed with the clinic. The doctor I saw was visibly in a rush during my 5 minute appointment. No background questions, no attempt to determine where the skin issue might be coming from. Here's your medication, good-bye. Very disappointing that dermatology clinics nowadays only seem to be interested in private clients who are there for Botox and laser procedures.

I waited 30 min just to be seen less than 3 minutes (literally). The doctor barely looked at me, and when I tried to asked a couple of more questions he said that the cosmetic area (or whatever the name of that part of the clinic is called) would look into it. He said that as he was opening the door to leave. I didn't even have time to put my sweater back on. I mean I get doctors are busy but so we are! And I made it all the way there, paid a nanny to look after my kids and waited 30 min for this? Maybe taking a little bit of more time could be nice. Or trying to answer questions? Very disappointed, after reading all the good reviews I had high expectations.

Doctor was nice but the appointment was very rushed. Some concerns answered not even looking at my skin, saying there is nothing we can do, it will go away on it’s own.

Excellent and helpful staff. The doctor was very kind and welcoming. He took time to listen to my concern. He asked pertinent questions to understand my health issues.
Very clean office.patient -HW

I would definitely recommend this place. The front desk staff are extremely accommodating and friendly. The office and rooms are very clean and I get the sense that the staff know exactly what they are doing. I was never pressured to buy anything and I really liked speaking with Niloo. If you get the chance to work with her you will see what I mean. She made me feel comfortable and heard. Due to this I will continue to to TDC

Unprofessional customer service. Was put on hold multiple times and given contradictory answers. Be expected to follow up multiple times on test results.

This was my first visit and I was so impressed! Dr. Upitis was so attentive, patient and knowledgeable. She made my teenager feel at ease.

This clinic is awful. Please don't spend your valuable time to wast your money here. The secretaries in the treatment area are extremely rude and arrogant. I was referred there for a skin problem I had. They didn't let me see the doctor I was supposed to see. I was introduced to another doctor and she gave me an ointment that I bought for $100 per gram and just put a touch on the skin condition with my fingertip. But I got very dizzy. When I studied its side effects, I realized that this ointment can cause a stroke and heart attack. Please don't go to this place.

Dr. Barankin might be the best dermatologist in the GTA. This clinic is a high-end dermatology/cosmetology clinic that provides the full range of services from skilled/knowledgeable professionals who can properly guide you in achieving your skincare goals.

The pricing at this clinic is very fair, especially when considering the level of service and expertise you are paying for.

My experience at the Centre was excellent. I was taken on time. Dr Sauder was very knowledgeable, efficient and professional - I was highly impressed. I am happy that I was referred to the Centre.

Dr. Sauder is the best and has a wonderful bed side manner. The office is quick and efficient. Free parking on the street outside the office if you don't mind walking a bit.

My appointment began as scheduled. I completed my intake. The doctor arrived a short 5 minutes later. He diagnosed my issue quickly and suggested treatments. The list was made quickly available. Unfortunately I misplaced but after a call to the clinic it was returned and the list emailed to me. Very satisfieed

Very efficient office right from the beginning to end! I was in and out in no time and everyone was very friendly there!

The staff was extremely rude and judgmental faces. They honestly should be ashamed of themselves. Teach your staff how to properly treat patients. Absolutely disgusting and they probably got ill or are getting karma for it

Disgusting service!
You will wait for 2 months then message them and they will tell you that they couldn't reach you out a week ago and then postpone your appointment for 2 more months! This is the worst service I have ever had in my life!
People, don't waste your time, there are tons of other clinics in the city!

Also they are liars, no you didn't leave me any voice messages!

Wonderful experience. Friendly staff. Great atmosphere. I was greeted, had my intake form completed and was seen by the doctor within minutes. A very efficient process. Dr. Sauder was lovely, thoughtful, and took the time to explain things well. A perfect balance between making the visit efficient, but being thorough.

I would highly recommend Dr. Rajan. She explained my treatment options and the corresponding fees, took the time to answer my questions, then made her recommendations. Her precision treatment was thorough and effective. I have the utmost confidence in her assessments and treatments and would not hesitate to return for future visits.

I mean, wow. I’ve always been the type of person to get a little anxious before doctors visits, especially those booked a few months out, so I was nervous coming here.

I showed up twenty minutes early, and was seen by Dr. Dan Sauder within five minutes of arriving. We took a look at my issue, he reassured me that everything was fine, and I was out the door before my scheduled appointment was even supposed to start. Super knowledgeable doctors, super friendly staff, and like zero wait.

Couldn't have asked for a better experience

The dermatologist that I seen here has a poor background in topical steroid withdrawal and alternative cream withdrawals like Protopic. They'll prescribe it like candy & confuse steroid withdrawal with true eczema. Educating the patients about the harms of topical steroids and protopic is critical in 2022, the side affects are clear. The doctors here need to educate themselves and their clients how these creams have destroyed millions of lives for generations. The updated data, science and education support this. Do everything you can to educate yourself and research topical steroid withdrawal- red skin syndrome- topical steroid addiction and steroid withdrawal.

I gave a 1 because there was no option for 0 stars. We need to move forward & hold these doctors accountable to higher practice standards.

Update: I see your post below and am wsiting for your call back.

Quite efficient; got in at my appointment time (very short wait). Kiera (nurse) was excellent - reassuring and confident.

I have been a patient at this practice for several years, primarily on the "cosmetic side. " Having been a patient at several similar practices, I can say with utmost honesty that this cosmetic-medical practice is without question the most disorganized and mismanaged I have ever dealt with. Quite literally, one hand doesn't know what the other hand is doing. Ever. It is hard to fathom, assuming someone is actually at the helm of this business, that anyone could allow it to run amok like it does. An absolute GONG SHOW. And especially sad because the 2 Dermatologist principals in the practice used to have excellent reputations in the industry.

I absolutely love this clinic. For any medical need involving the skin, this is the place to be. I see a dermatologist there who specializes in acne and has changed my life, and does not settle for fair results-the best possible outcome only!

Friendly staff. No wait time. (Had an appointment) Doctor was nice and I was out in less than 10 minutes. Registration, and taking a sample included. I. N. V

It is a nice place to visit. The receptionist was kind and tried to serve me fast as possible. Another reason I like this place because I didn't wait at all.
I think Dr. Howard is well experienced and kind professional.

After patiently waiting 1 - 2 months for an appointment I was finally able to see the doctor yesterday. I was VERY impressed by the staff and level of service from this clinic. Before I was able to find a seat in the waiting area I was already called in. Then after being shown the next room to wait in, I was right away greeted by the doctor. Overall my total time spent in the clinic was 20 min and that included parking, registration, treatment, dismissal and paying. This is the fastest, most efficient health service I have ever received in the history of my own life. Not to mention the doctor is VERY experienced and treated me with a lot of care and patience. HIGHLY recommend this clinic.

Best dermatology clinic in Toronto. I have visited many dermatology clinics over the years because I’ve always had so many skin issues of various sorts (runs in my family). This clinic is by far the best in many respects. They are respectful of your time, kind and easy going, and really know their stuff. Dr. Barankin especially is simply the best! He cares, he’s funny, he’s smart, he’s always there for you. I’ve interacted with other staff here and all are great and really there to help you.

Wait times were minimal and doctor was caring, friendly and hopefully solved my skincare issue. H. F.

I took the time to prepare for my appointment by noting my concerns, which I went over with Dr Wasel. He appeared to be attentive and said he will prescribe to address my concerns. Imagine my surprise when my prescription company got 1 prescription for a medication that was never mentioned to me and upon Googling did not address my concerns. Took 2 emails to get a nurse to call me to explain. The nurse looked at my chart and the notes from doctor not only did not include my concerns but also had a condition that I do not have and did not ask the doctor to treat. Careless at the least, malpractice at the most.

Unfortunately I had bad experience and disrespected from the receptionist the staff really need to respect patients!
I don’t ever cancel appointment unless if I’m sick or for a reasons out of my control I usually call before few days to the actual appointment! And I right after I call to re-book appointment with my dermatologist since I really appreciate the good care of my dermatologist! Unfortunately the receptionist was rude and she told me I have to pay$100 if I want to see the doctor in the future because she said I didn’t show up to the appointment and I was so confused and surprised about what she said and I tried to explain to her there’s something wrong you should check the system and the voicemail that I never ever don’t show up to any doctor appointment but she insist to pay $100 because 2 years ago I re-booked my appointment and when I checked it I found that I re-booked my appointment before a week of the day of appointment because I had school exam!
Can anyone here imagine how poor communication and bad treatment from this clinic staff to the patients?
I talked to the manager she was even worse and very rude telling me without respect to $100
I really wish the doctors know what is going on I’m really tired of these receptionists

I had a chemical peel for 126 dollars. In retrospect, I would recommend buying an acid glycolic and moisturizing mask yourself as it does not worth this money.

Secondly, about my recent appointment:

I was waiting at the wrong floor, tried to call and received a message "nobody's at the reception during the weekend".

When arrived, I tried to explain the reason but I do not think I was heard.

My appointment was with Stephanie, which was not very kind and treated my like she was my customer. She cut of my time for a treatment, which was OK since I was the last customer and it was Saturday, and I was late.
BUT it was a bit weird to see Stephanie hanging out in the office after. IT basically showed me that I could still have my full treatment and she could still be doing her office chores.

Very efficient, well-organized, and personable service. Dr. Yang attended to all my needs with professionalism.

Top notch place. Excellent premises and services. Doctor almost always on time which is great. Dr. Barankin is brilliant and I’m fortunate to have been referred to him. Everyone at clinic is kind and helping.

Highly recommend place for excellent service. My cyst removal starts exact time as I expected, so I can still go back to work afterwards. The proceed was fast, professional and painless. A post-procedure guidance will also be provided which will remind patients how to take care their treated area properly. 5 stars rate.

This place is EXPENSIVE! They charged $500 cash for 15 minutes skin tag cleaning by a nurse who makes $35 per hour. Did not even give receipt, so it was pure profit that went literally directly in doctor's pan pocket. Place was clean and everybody professional. But the price tag was ridiculously vicious. You can find same service for way cheaper. Unless you some rich person who does not count money - stay away. I still puzzled why they took my health card.for this kind of price they should have coffee machines and free jelato 2 meters apart. And free limo pickups/drop offs. And free massage. And something else free, just don't know what. And even something on top of that. And still give you some change back.

Making an appointment is practically impossible. Called tens of times and never got a call back. Receptionist answered once and said another receptionist will call back, but never did. It's been 5 days. Left several messages, never got a call back.

Been at this clinic 2 times same horrible experience doctors they just dont care about you at all not love or passion for what they do just wondering how much they charge for each visit to OHIP took me like a 1 and half minute my visit she rush everything not listen to my problem she stand and walk to the door like she is in a hurry to go horrible horrible Dr upitis

The staff and medical team are very courteous and professional. They put me immediately at easy and the premises is very clean and safe. Overall a great experience.

If you enjoy being treated like a part on an assembly line, this is the place for you. The receptionists speak gentle and nice but in their eyes, you are just a wallet being judged on the deepness and your financial value to their business. I understand clinic needs to diversify and make money, but this place made it too obvious, which trumps its medical purpose, which is the very reason of its existence. Today is my first and last time coming here. I am speaking about its cosmetic section.

Very very unprofessional care. I did treatment that caused the infection. Doctors and nurses
who do not know how to do their job. Stay away from this place

I brought my elderly father to the clinic and was seen by Dr Wasel who had excellent bedside manner and was very friendly. The girls at the front desk were also very friendly and efficient. Helenp

It was my first time to visit the Centre. Impressed with the efficiency of the entire process. The dermatologist (Dr. Rajan) was very kind and knowledgeable and service was professional. The nurse was very kind and helpful too. Very happy with my visit.

Dr. Yang was wonderful. The booking process was easy, the clinic was clean and if you read the signage, instructions were very clear on how to check in for your appointment with computer registration. The appointment was less than 10 minutes, in and out. Front desk staff was extremely helpful and polite. -M. J. C.

Don’t waste your time! My referral was faxed over on August 18th. They called me today (September 14th) to book an appointment for October 27th. Ridiculous! Should not take 2 months to see a dermatologist, and they will lie and tell u that their waiting times are 2-3 weeks. Total waste of time, would have appreciated some honesty from the get-go.

Took my teenage son here because he was having some skin issues, and I am so glad I did. The doctor and everyone on staff was absolutely amazing. They were quick and effective, we never had to wait long to be seen. The doctor was able to answer all my questions and give us wonderful care. Highly recommend!

Dr.upitis is not professional, irresponsible, rude, rushes through, clueless. Does not have any clue about skin problems. DO YOURSELF A FAVOR, IF YOU ARE REFFERED CALL AHEAD AND ASK WHICH "DERMATOLOGIST" YOU ARE GOING TO SEE, IF ITS UPITIS, PLEASE ASK FOR A REAL DERMATOLOGIST, DR. UPITIS IS ONLY AN MD (unsure if it has changed since then) because when we asked the reception for dr.balakin* or barakin* she said he only takes care of skin cancer patient, bizarre, but the website doesn't say so. IF THEY INSIST ON, CALL YOUR FAMILY DOC AND BOOK SOMEWHERE ELSE. ALSO CHECK RATEMDS. COM

After visiting a dermatologist recently and feeling as if my concerns were not addressed, I asked for a different clinic.

I was able to park with no issue (for free) on a local side street. When I arrived I was immediately greeted by the receptionist and was directed to an office within minutes of my scheduled appointment. The doctor arrived in less than 5 minutes, addressed all of my concerns very professionally.

A mole removal followed which I waited a whole 30 seconds for and the procedure was just as quick.

I needed a follow up with another doctor which was immediately scheduled for the following week.

I was amazed at the organization and efficiency of this clinic, I don’t think I’ve seen any specialist that was so well organized.

Not to mention the stringent covid policies keeping things as safe as possible.

This place is great, a breath of fresh air.

My recent, first time appointment, at the Toronto Dermatology Centre was great. They are strictly following Covid protocols and the wait time to see the doctor was not long. Dr. Barankin is very professional and kind. I will definitely go back when I have further skin concerns.

The receptionist was not that polite and i did not feel so welcome.the way she replied to me and to my questions could have been answered in a much more courteous and professional way. It was my first time there but the first impression was disappointing though the nurse who looked after me was caring and even had a smile behind her mask and you can tell she cared about my wellbeing.

Excellent doctors and nurses. I was referred for an abnormal mole. I’m terrified of doctors and needles. The nursing staff went out of their way to make sure I was comfortable. When I called to book the appointment and said I was frightened, the nurse I spoke with said she would make sure I was on her schedule. The procedure was painless and quick. Thanks to the kind staff I was able to take care of my health and I would go back here for sure.

Great place! Super clean and welcoming! Receptionist were very helpful. Got a small procedure done and it took less than 5 mins. The nurse was really good also! Recommend

Experience at the cosmetic clinic was great. I was accomodated even though I was late. Got microdermabration on my face. It was done effectively and with care. Given procedural advice for skin care using suggested products. Thanks Violetta.

Please let me know how to get appointment with dr Barankin. I have a severe rush on my face. And I got refferal from my family doctor but for dr. Barankin but he refused to see me. The reason was 'dr Barankin sees only important patients'. I tried to talk to his receptionist explaining that i have had appointments with few other dermatologists but nobody could help me and i agree to wait for an appointmen for as long as necessary. The answer was 'no'. Dr. Uppes agreed to see me. But as always the cream that she prescribed just worsened my rush.

Like this place! I got fantastic help here! Thanks doctor max and nurse Emily. They helped me get back to my healthy skin. Three month before I can’t see my face. Acnes makes me feel scared. However I came here and got right treat. Until now I only have some acne sign. (I think is ok! Gonna be fine right away!) all in all. Thanks Toronto dermatology center! 如果有懂中文的朋友看到这个页面真的可以要来这家医院，我的痘痘就是这家看好的！正规医院不用担心！希望大家的皮肤都快点好起来！

I have always received the best dermatology care from Dr. Barankin and this excellent clinic. Everyone here is conscientious and tries to make your visit pleasant and efficient. He generally runs on time which is appreciated, and I like that the clinic is very bright and clean and spacious. Forsure this is one of the nicest most professional medical offices around. I regularly recommend this place and Dr. Barankin.

You guys ever see that commercial for a car dealer ship and he says “you ever walk into a car dealership and say WHOS PAYING FOR THIS PLACE? ! ” well that’s the same thing a asked myself when I walking to to this office, it’s very beautiful and after my visit I figured out its their over charged patients. I came here to get help with my on going acne issue and as soon as the doctor rushed through the door he looked at my skin with some light up magnifying glass and made a decision to prescribe me two different products, barely asked any questions (the appointment lasted about 5 minutes) and sent me to the aesthetician who advised me to buy their $80+ products that most likely wouldn’t work for me because they knew nothing about me and my skin. I didn’t feel comfortable asking the dermatologist and questions because he was clearly in a rush and needed to be some where else. So if you haven’t figured it out, I wouldn’t be going back there. I give two stars because the secretary was nice and the office was very nicely decorated (because they get so much money from people who put all their trust in the doctor that they buy anything the suggest)

I was an hour early. I was seen right away by Dr. Daniel Sauder, and treated like a princess. My appointment time was 10 but, as I mentioned, I arrived at 9. By 9: 30, the stupid thing on the side of my nose was gone. It was removed by an extremely competent professional. She was explaining the procedure to me and, training another woman. She was amazing. I went over to the laser people and, again, was seen right away. By my actual appointment time, the hideous thing on my forehead had been treated. The lady who did this, Karina, was friendly and extremely dedicated. She went above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable with the procedure. I was amazed by the whole experience. Even the prices were extemely reasonable. Thank you to everyone there!

Special thanks to Dr. M. Sauder and friendly staff of Toronto Dermatology Centre.
Suffered with hives, itchy red rash all over my body. I had seen three different doctors and one visit to emergency room with no relief.
I was referred to this clinic, had appointment and was seen by Dr. Maxwell Sauder right away all my concerns were addressed, prescriptions and treatment plan in hand. Dr Sauder assured me that in three days i will feel better and after three days, first time in whole month i had some relief. I would highly recommend Toronto Dermatology Centre to all my friends.

What a horrible experience!
I had an appointment with Dr. Daniel Sauder. It was the worst experience I have ever had with a Doctor. He was very arrogant, barely let me speak and diagnosed me without even looking at my skin condition! Basically, the minute he knew that I was a OHIP referral, he did what he could to finish the meeting quickly. He did not ask me any questions about my condition, did not look at it, prescribed me medication "for life" without even explaining the risks involved and was very impatient. Honestly, people like him should not be practicing if they don't have the minimum dignity to actually talk with their patients.
When I told this to the girl at the reception, she said that one of the clinic's directors is going to me, which did not happen. So as far as I'm concerned, this place is just a money grab with no real interest in their patients. Stay away!

Terrible experience here.starting from the rude receptionist and ending with the dermatologist who attended. As a university student who was just recovering from severe depression and experiencing sudden hair loss, hair loss that had never happened to her ever, when explaining and showing the physician what was wrong, he was dismissive and rude behaving as though my presence was disturbing him from seeing other patients.i had questions after he prescribed something for me.i asked about the side effects.he was once again very very dismissive and lied that there would be no noticeable side effects.i tried to probe further, but this Dr would remain dismissive and snappy. Fearing the situation, i had to contact my father who lives in another continent so he could speak to the Dr and maybe get some answers.this seemed to work just a little bit as the Dr calmed down and explained briefly and hastily what the condition was.terrible terrible terrible service. Any person could tell i as the patient was terrified, but the Dr did not seem to care. As a health care practitioner, this is not acceptable.you do not lie or dismiss questions concerning the side effect of a medication you are prescribing your patients. ; you do not behave like your patient is just a number on the list.you do not dismiss heath questions raised by your patients.
MIGHT I ADD, I HAD TO CALL IN MYSELF TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT BECAUSE THEY WERE TAKING TOO LONG TO SCH ME IN. MEANWHILE, MY CONDITION WAS DETERIORATING quickly! I even had to call again to ask if i could be move to an earlier date, because of how quickly the problem was escalating! If i could rate a place 0, i would.only good thing here was the nurse who gave me shots at the end.she was commendable.mind you, i was hit with some pretty negative side effects which he denied. Health care in my "third world country" surpasses the service received in this "western world" health care facility.

I try to book the appointment and the receptionist at clinic do not have a sense to talk. She was really good and providing information but as soon as when I told her am international student and I have health insurance with Morecare. She got rude and asking me to pay for the consultation and she hang up the call with out further discuss. I would not recommended anyone to go this clinic because your first impression you will like racism think what that will provide the service when we are patient at clinic.

Thanks to the efficiency of Elena I managed to get an appointment in a very timely manner. The office staff were pleasant & efficient. My appointment with Dr Sauder was for 11.20 & he saw me right on time. He too was pleasant & it was a positive experience.

Excellent clinic in every way. Easy to schedule appointment after my doctor told me to go here as he recommends this clinic to all his patients for long time now. People here are really good and efficient. Parking is easy and location is central. Clinic looks clean and modern and big. Dr. Barankin is always very nice to deal with, listens well, asks good questions, examines carefully and very honest. His treatments always seem to work too which is nice so I don’t waste my time or money. I highly highly recommend this clinic and doctor.

Going to the Toronto Dermatology Centre was an amazing experience. The people there are so lively and excited to help me with my problem skin. I need to thank Emily for helping with this problem and made me feel so comfortable and give me my confidence back. She always check on me and the best was watching movies while I wait. She answered any question I had and I was releived with all the answers.
Thank you for give back my face that I can look in mirror and smile.

By the way this Amanda Freda using my sister account.

Excellent dermatology clinic for checking out your moles and skin cancers. I have many moles and age spots removed with very nice results and ensuring my skin is in top health. Dr. Barankin is simply wonderful and pleasure to deal with

I had a great experience here at a recent appointment with Dr. Maxwell Sauder. He was very pleasant to deal with, was warm, timely and professional, and is clearly an expert in his field. I fully trusted him and the staff and found the office very clean and comfortable. I would absolutely return to see Dr. Sauder and highly recommend the Toronto Dermatology Centre.

Just got back from my first experience getting Cool Sculpting!
After having a consultation last week with Emily, I chose to get the procedure done on my waist (flanks) and tummy. Emily was very attentive and explained the process to me in detail, as well as what to expect. She was great! Had 4 applications done today and it was not painful at all. I'd say it felt weird as the applicator suctions to the area it's going to work on like a vacuum and applies very cold temperature to the sight. It was really red afterwards, but that faded quickly. Now I'm home and have no soreness, just a little tender but not too tender to touch. Very small bruise in one spot but not what I was worried it might be like based on reading other's reviews. So far, so good! Will update with another review to let you know how I'm progressing. CH