When I think back to the early days of Lēzara, I remember how it all started with one idea: create a clinic that could safely and effectively treat all skin types, especially the most challenging ones. Back in 2015, we invested in Canada’s very first Cutera Excel HR laser unit. At the time, it was the most advanced device in the world for treating darker skin tones. And that mattered to me.
I had spoken with a local South Asian woman who, like many others, had concerns about the safety of laser treatments for her skin. Most of the best machines for her skin type were in Surrey, not Squamish. That didn’t sit right with me. Everyone deserves access to safe, effective technology, no matter where they live.
So we brought the best to Squamish!
To this day, South Asian women who visit our clinic tell me, “I’ve done my research, this is the safest option for me.” That’s the kind of feedback that reminds me why we started in the first place.
The name Lēzara came from a simple but curious thought: What’s the Punjabi word for laser? I looked it up, and the translation read “Lēzara.” It felt right.
What many people don’t know is that the two “A”s in our logo were designed to look like mountain peaks, a subtle nod to Squamish and the strength and beauty of this place we call home.
We didn’t start big. I had three exam rooms, but only ever used two. So when I met a skilled laser tech, someone with experience, passion, and the desire to work closer to home, I knew we had the right person to start something new. We put the Lēzara logo on the door of that third room, and that’s where it all began.
I had actually wanted to start this clinic back in 2009, but the town wasn’t quite ready yet. Then in 2015, things shifted. The housing market took off, new families were moving in, and the demographic changed. People were ready to invest in their health and skin. At the same time, the aesthetics industry was exploding globally. It felt like the right moment. And it was.
We started with hair removal and pigment treatments. Then came skin care. Then resurfacing. Interest grew. Lēzara grew. And over the years, we’ve continued to evolve, always keeping our patients’ safety and outcomes at the heart of what we do.
Ten years later, I’m proud of what we’ve built. From one room to a full-service clinic with a trusted reputation across the Sea to Sky, this journey has been one of heart, intention, and growth.
Thank you to everyone who’s been a part of it, whether you were a patient, a supporter, or part of our team.
Here’s to what comes next.
— Dr. Gerhard Malherbe
Co-Founder & Clinic Director, Lēzara