Laser Hair Removal
Laser Hair Removal in Pittsburgh, PA – Smooth Skin with Medical Expertise
At Happel Medical Spa, we provide advanced laser hair removal for clients throughout the Pittsburgh area who want long-lasting, smooth skin without the hassle of shaving or waxing. Our medical-grade laser technology delivers safe, effective results, with treatments performed under physician direction for added peace of mind. If you’re searching for professional laser hair removal in Pittsburgh, our experienced team offers personalized care, modern equipment, and results you can trust.
Our story began in 2000, when our parent company became the first practice in Pittsburgh to introduce laser hair removal.
With more than 25 years of experience in energy-based devices, Happel Medical Spa continues that legacy with a modern, physician-directed approach focused on safety, precision, and consistent results.
Smooth, low-maintenance skin without daily shaving. Our laser hair removal treatments target each follicle at its root, reducing growth over time for softer, finer, and significantly less hair.
Every treatment is performed by our licensed registered nurse who is extensively trained in laser safety and energy-based devices. This level of clinical oversight is something most spas do not offer.
We use an Alexandrite laser ideal for lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–III) and operate under direct medical supervision to ensure safe and effective outcomes at every visit.
Is laser hair removal right for me?
Laser hair removal is a great option if you:
- Are tired of shaving, waxing, or dealing with razor burn and ingrown hairs
- Have unwanted hair on the face, underarms, bikini area, legs, chest, back, or abdomen
- Want smoother skin and slower, finer hair regrowth over time
- Have light to medium skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–III)
At this time, our device is best suited for lighter skin types. If you are unsure of your skin type or whether you are a candidate, we will evaluate this carefully at your free consultation before scheduling treatment.
How our laser works
Our Alexandrite laser delivers a controlled beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle. The energy heats and damages the follicle, which reduces its ability to grow hair in the future.
- Targets dark hair against lighter skin
- Treats many hairs in a fraction of a second
- Hair grows back finer and less dense over a series of sessions
- Physician directed protocols and settings for your safety
Laser hair removal reduces hair growth long term. Most clients notice a significant reduction in unwanted hair.
Common treatment areas
Laser hair removal is effective on many areas of the face and body. We commonly treat:
Face
Upper lip
Full face
Chin
Jawline
Sideburns
Ears
Neck (front or back)
Areola area
Upper Body
Underarms (axilla)
Full arms
Forearms
Hands and fingers
Shoulders
Chest
Back
Lower Body
Full legs
Lower legs
Thighs
Feet and toes
Buttocks
Bikini and Intimate Areas
Bikini line
Extended bikini
Brazilian
Treatments can be fully customized, so you only pay for the exact areas you want treated.
How many sessions will I need
Hair grows in cycles, and the laser is most effective on follicles in the active growth phase. Because of this, a series is always required.
Typical course:
- Most clients need 6–8 sessions per area
- Treatments are spaced 4–8 weeks apart depending on the body area
- Some clients choose maintenance sessions at a decreased price once or twice a year to keep results optimized
Your provider will discuss a plan tailored to your hair color, density, and growth pattern.
How to prepare for your appointment
Laser hair removal is effective on many areas of the face and body. We commonly treat:
Avoid sun exposure
Avoid direct sun exposure for 4–6 weeks before treatment.
Recently tanned skin cannot be treated.
Stop all self-tanning products at least one week before your appointment and ensure any residual color is completely removed.
Shave before appointment
Shave the area 12–24 hours before your session.
Shaving too early can leave stubble that increases the risk of burns.
Shaving too close to your appointment may cause irritation.
Do not wax, pluck, thread, or bleach for 6 weeks before treatment since the laser requires the hair follicle to be intact.
Pause certain skin products and medications
Stop topical products on the treatment area for 3–5 days prior unless specifically approved by your provider.
Some medications can increase light sensitivity and raise the risk of burning.
If you are taking photosensitizing medications such as antibiotics or steroids, do not discontinue them without consulting your prescribing physician. If your prescribing physician clears you to stop them, they should be discontinued at least 4 weeks before treatment unless you receive written approval from our provider to proceed.
Accutane must be discontinued for at least 6 months before treatment. Do not stop Accutane without consulting your prescribing dermatologist or physician.
Always provide your full medication and supplement list prior to treatment so your provider can determine safety.
Arrive with clean skin
Do not wear makeup on the area being treated at the time of your appointment.
Avoid lotions, oils, deodorant, or fragrances on the treatment site unless instructed otherwise.
Safety and screening
Protective eyewear will be provided and must be worn throughout treatment.
Your provider will review your medical history and skin care routine to ensure treatment is safe and appropriate for your skin type.
What to expect during treatment
- You will be given eye protection
- Your skin will be cleansed and marked as needed
- The provider will perform a test spot and confirm your comfort
- You will feel quick snaps or heat in the area while the laser pulses
- Smaller areas like the underarms can take just a few minutes
- Larger areas like the legs may take more time
Most clients describe the sensation as a series of quick, hot “zaps” that are very fast and tolerable.
Aftercare
After treatment, it is common to experience temporary redness, swelling, or a sunburn-like sensation in the treated area. These reactions are normal and usually fade within a few hours, although redness may last a couple of days. Healing time varies from person to person.
Skin care immediately after treatment
A soothing product such as aloe vera may be applied if desired.
Makeup can be used as long as the skin is not irritated.
Treat the skin gently for the first 24–48 hours. Use lukewarm water, mild fragrance-free cleanser, and avoid scrubbing.
Avoid hot tubs and saunas for 48 hours.
Sun protection
Strictly avoid direct sun exposure for 4–6 weeks before and after every treatment.
Use an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily.
Failure to follow sun-avoidance instructions can cause pigment changes or burns.
Hair shedding
Over the next several days to weeks, treated hairs will shed. This is normal and is not new growth.
You may gently wash or wipe the area with a soft cloth to help loosen hairs.
Do not pick, pluck, or scrub the area.
Do not wax, thread, tweeze, or use depilatories for 6 weeks after treatment. Shaving only is allowed.
Underarm treatments
If your underarms were treated, you may prefer to use powder instead of deodorant for the first 24 hours to reduce irritation.
Bathing
You may bathe normally, but avoid hot water and harsh products for 24–48 hours.
Pat the skin dry rather than rubbing.
If you experience any unexpected reactions or have concerns about healing, contact us promptly.
Laser Hair Removal FAQs
Is laser hair removal safe?
Yes. When performed with proper screening and settings, laser hair removal is considered very safe. At our practice, treatments are physician directed, and your skin type, hair color, and medical history are carefully reviewed before treatment.
Does it hurt?
Most clients describe the feeling as a quick, warm snap that lasts only a moment. Discomfort is typically mild and very brief. Sensitive areas can be discussed with your provider in advance so we can adjust settings appropriately.
How permanent are the results?
Laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth long term. Many follicles are permanently disabled, while others grow back thinner and lighter. Occasional maintenance sessions help keep stubborn or hormonally influenced hair under control.
Who is not a candidate?
You may not be a candidate if you:
- Are currently taking isotretinoin (Accutane)
- Are significantly tanned or using self tanner on the treatment area
- Have an active infection or open lesion in the treatment area
- Have very light, white, gray, or red hair in the area being treated
We will review this with you in detail and recommend alternative options if laser is not appropriate.
Is laser hair removal safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Out of an abundance of caution, we typically postpone laser hair removal during pregnancy. For breastfeeding clients, we will review your medications and health history and decide together whether to proceed.
How much does it cost?
Exact pricing cannot be determined without an in-person consultation. The cost of treatment varies based on location, size of the area, and the extent of hair growth. Other individual factors may also influence pricing. Complimentary consultations are recommended to ensure accurate pricing tailored to your needs.
Do you offer packages or memberships?
No. At Happel Medical Spa, we never require prepaid packages, long-term contracts, or up-front commitments. We believe in honest, transparent, pay-as-you-go pricing so you only pay for the sessions you actually need. This gives you full flexibility with no pressure, no binding contracts, and no inflated “discounted” package deals. During your free consultation, we will provide clear per-session pricing and help you create a treatment plan that fits your goals without locking you in.
Questions About Laser Hair Removal at Happel Medical Spa?
Call us at 724-969-0600 or contact us here and we’ll be happy to discuss your laser hair removal treatment options.