Laser Hair Removal Overview

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a cosmetic treatment used to remove unwanted hair. Laser hair removal in Pittsburgh, which can be performed almost anywhere on the body, involves the use of a concentrated beam of light to damage the pigment in the hair and the hair follicles. This gradually causes the hair to fall out and inhibits future hair growth in the area.

Laser Hair Removal Treatment And Target Areas

Laser hair removal should only be performed in a medical facility – the use of medical lasers requires skill, knowledge, and very careful application. At Premier Plastic Surgery in Pittsburgh, we offer advanced laser hair removal to our patients and can discuss your needs with you personally. The results are long-lasting and make it possible to treat areas of excess hair quickly and effectively. Laser treatment for unwanted hair may be appropriate if you are living with any of the following issues:

Unsightly facial hair
Excess chest or back hair
Hairy arms
Excessive armpit hair
Excess hair on bikini area requiring waxing or shaving

Why Choose Premier Plastic Surgery For Laser Hair Removal?

If you are seeking the benefits of laser hair removal in Pittsburgh, or are interested in other forms of rejuvenation, Dr. Brian Heil is among the best options in Pittsburgh. After completing a five-year residency, he went on to complete an exclusive fellowship in Micro Surgery at the University Medical Center of Pittsburgh. He founded Premier Plastic Surgery in 2001. Since that time, he and his Physician’s Assistants have been helping people achieve successful cosmetic outcomes.

Dr. Heil does deliver many medspa services himself, but many are also delivered by our providers, each of whom has been trained personally by Dr. Heil. Each provider is a fully licensed Physician’s Assistant— giving them knowledge and ability that is significantly superior to a registered nurse. Because of this, our standard of care does not budge, no matter who you receive your treatment from. At Premier Plastic Surgery we deliver some of the best results in laser hair removal Pittsburgh has to offer.

Benefits Of Laser Hair Removal in Pittsburgh

At Premier Plastic Surgery in Pittsburgh, our laser hair removal technique is a breakthrough for achieving long-lasting relief from unwanted hair growth without damaging the skin’s delicate pores and tissue. The GentleMax PRO, GentleLASE or GentleYAG laser emits a beam of light energy that passes through the skin to the hair follicle where it is absorbed. The laser energy is transformed into heat, which destroys the hair follicle without damaging the surrounding skin.

Laser Hair Removal For All Skin Types

The latest generation of laser hair removal systems are more effective than earlier systems. The treatment can be very effective for all skin types and colors, while earlier versions of laser hair removal were less effective on darker skin tones.

Depending upon the amount of excess hair and the size of the area to be treated, you may require several appointments to achieve the smoother, hair-free look you envision for yourself. At our clinic, we have made it a point to provide our patients with the most advanced, effective laser treatments so they can enjoy the benefits. Our state-of-the-art clinic is outfitted with hair removal systems that produce impressive results, fast.

What Can I Expect During Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

The treatment will take place in our office. You will wear safety eyewear to protect your eyes from the laser light. Each laser pulse may be preceded by a short pulse of cooling spray.

A single session may take as little as a few minutes to as long as an hour. The number of treatments required will depend upon skin color, hair color and the coarseness of the hair.

Although the hair follicle cannot be permanently removed, hair growth can be stopped or minimized for approximately 3-5 months. Repeat sessions will be required to treat the follicles when they re-enter the early growth phase.

Recovery After Laser Hair Removal

Although there are no major side effects associated with laser hair removal, temporary redness and/or swelling in the treated area might occur but generally lasts for 1-2 days, or longer in some patients. There may be pigmentary changes in skin color, as well as discomfort during or after the procedure, which usually lasts a few hours to a few days.

Appropriate post-care instructions should be carefully followed including wearing sunscreen or protective clothing on exposed laser-treated areas for one month after the procedure. Makeup can be applied immediately after the treatment. Following laser hair removal, the hairs slough off over 2-3 weeks. You may use an electric razor or cream to remove treated hair, but do not pluck the hairs.

Laser Hair Removal FAQ

Does laser really remove hair permanently?

Laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth by targeting and disabling hair follicles. While many patients experience long-lasting or permanent hair reduction, maintenance sessions may be needed over time because hair can regrow due to hormonal changes or new follicles becoming active.

Should I shave before laser hair removal?

Yes, shaving the treatment area shortly before your laser session is recommended. This allows the laser energy to focus on the hair follicle beneath the skin rather than surface hair, improving effectiveness and reducing the risk of irritation.

How long will laser hair removal results last?

Results vary by individual, but most patients see prolonged hair reduction lasting months to years after a complete series of treatments. Occasional maintenance sessions may be recommended to keep treated areas smooth, especially in hormonally sensitive regions.