Hair removal is not reserved for women. Today, many men seek permanent hair removal solutions to avoid the inconvenience of constant shaving and waxing, and laser hair removal is the most effective option.
This article explains the benefits of laser hair removal for men, how it works, and how to prepare for the treatment.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work for Men?
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic treatment that uses intense light to damage and destroy hair follicles, preventing future growth. The laser targets the color pigment in hair, melanin, which absorbs heat from the laser. This intense heat removes hair follicles while leaving the skin unharmed.
The treatment is most effective in people with darker hair because they have more melanin. However, if the skin is also dark, the laser loses precision because it may confuse pigment in hair with pigment in the skin.
Today’s lasers are more advanced and don’t require a clear contrast, but the best results are still achieved in patients with light skin and dark hair. People with blonde, gray, or reddish hair should consult their chosen skin professional to determine if the treatment will work for them.
Note: Read our article to find out more on laser hair removal for blonde hair.
Laser Hair Removal for Men: Treatment Areas
A laser can safely remove hair from any area, except around the eyelids. Men usually book laser hair removal for the following areas:
- Back and shoulders
- Chest
- Abdomen
- Legs
- Buttocks
- Neck
- Face
- Eyebrows
Note: Check out more laser hair removal areas.
The Benefits of Laser Hair Removal for Men
Laser hair removal for men provides multiple benefits, including:
- Less irritation and chafing during sports and in hot weather. Cyclists, swimmers, and other athletes who wear tight spandex clothing particularly benefit from having smooth skin.
- Fewer chances of getting an infection during sports. Waxing and shaving before a sporting event may create open wounds more susceptible to bacterial infections in dressing rooms, swimming pools, and while sweating.
- Less ingrown hair. Men who shave often experience ingrown hairs on the face and neck. A few laser hair removal sessions can help damage ingrown hair follicles and smooth irritated skin.
- Easier shaving. Men with particularly strong hair who need to shave frequently can benefit from several laser hair removal treatments that will reduce the intensity of their hair growth.
- Smoother, aesthetically pleasing skin. Men with more hair on their backs, chests, or buttocks than their peers may feel self-conscious and desire a permanent solution for their cosmetic issue.
Note: Learn which hair removal method is better, laser or waxing.
How Should Men Prepare for Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal patients are advised to follow specific instructions before the treatment to ensure desired results.
- Avoid tanning and self-tanning products for four weeks before the procedure to ensure proper contrast between your skin and hair.
- Don’t wax before the treatment because the laser can only target melanin if the hair follicle is intact.
- Shave before the treatment because long hair will absorb more laser energy and result in a burn or won’t effectively destroy the hair follicle.
- Stop taking medications that increase skin sensitivity (e.g., blood thinners).
- Avoid alcohol 24 hours before the treatment to prevent reduced tolerance to pain.
Note: Read our article and learn more on how to prepare for laser hair removal.
What Can Men Expect During the Treatment?
Laser hair removal for men is a quick, in-office procedure that typically takes 15-30 minutes.
Men who have never waxed or plucked their hair may find it painful. However, using a laser is less painful than waxing, and most patients experience a mildly uncomfortable prickling feeling. If you have a low pain threshold, your medical provider can apply a numbing cream on the treatment area before the procedure.
You will wear goggles to protect your eyes from intense light beams. After the session, you can resume most of your regular activities.
The Results of Laser Hair Removal for Men
Your skin may look red after the treatment, but this side effect goes away within a few hours.
In most cases, the hairs are reduced by about 25% after the first treatment. You will notice a significant reduction in the frequency and amount of hair after more treatments. Men typically require six to eight treatments spaced two months apart for dramatic results and additional touch-up treatments every year until most hairs are destroyed.
An added benefit of laser hair removal is that the treated skin is smoother because the laser also stimulates collagen production.
Laser Hair Removal for Men: Aftercare
To ensure the best results, follow these laser hair removal aftercare tips:
- Avoid the sun, tanning beds, saunas, and swimming pools for 48 hours.
- Don’t exercise for 24-48 hours.
- Don’t rub, press, or pick on the treated area.
- Shower and wash your face with lukewarm water.
The Cost of Laser Hair Removal for Men
At Vibrant Skin Bar, laser hair removal for large areas such as the chest or back costs $350. You can save by purchasing six treatments for the price of five.
Laser hair removal for small areas costs $150.
The prices vary depending on the size of the treatment area. Talk to our skin experts to determine how many sessions you will need based on your hair and skin type.
Conclusion
Laser hair removal is an effective solution for men with unwanted hair. It is safe when performed by trained, experienced skin experts and provides lasting results.
If you are in the Phoenix area, stop by Vibrant Skin Bar to discuss your hair removal options and the best strategy for your specific skin tone and hair type. We’ll be happy to help you achieve the look you desire!
