5 min skin laser

Laser Hair Removal for Men: A Smooth, Permanent Solution

Hey guys, things are changing in how we see grooming! It’s not just about women having smooth skin anymore. Now, guys want to look polished too, and they’re looking for easy ways to do it. That’s where laser hair removal comes in – a cool solution for guys dealing with unwanted hair on their faces, backs, and chests. In this guide, we’ll talk about how laser hair removal works for men, and the science behind it. It’s not just about saving time on grooming; it’s also about feeling more confident. So, let’s check out how diving into the world of laser hair removal can totally change how guys take care of themselves, making them look and feel more put together!

How Does Laser Hair Removal for Men Work?

Consider laser hair removal as an effective solution for getting rid of unwanted hair. Wondering how it works? Well, it has a unique ability to target the color in your hair, known as melanin. During the laser treatment, the light acts as a signal that the melanin in your hair follicle picks up, similar to honing in on a target.

Now, the melanin in the hair follicle absorbs the laser light, causing the follicle (or the hair-making factory) to heat up. Visualize this process as generating warmth, damaging the follicle in the process.

With repeated laser treatments, this damage accumulates. The hair-making factory gets disrupted and can’t function properly anymore. It’s akin to overcoming a challenge – once the damage is done, the follicle can’t cause more trouble. In laser hair removal, the damaged follicle stops growing new hair. So, what’s the outcome? Reduced or even no more unwanted hair! It’s essentially an effective way to deal with those hairs you’d rather not have around.

Is laser hair removal effective with multiple sessions?

Yes. Laser hair removal isn’t a one-time thing. Typically, at least 3-6 sessions are needed over several months because the laser works on actively growing hairs. Hair follicles have a cycle of growth, rest, fall-out, reset, and regrowth. Since the laser only affects actively growing hairs, treatments are spaced a month apart. It takes a few sessions to wear down the follicles completely, leading to a cycle of month-long intervals until all follicles are treated.

Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?

Whether or not laser hair removal hurts depends on your individual pain tolerance and the area being treated. Thanks to advanced laser technology, the procedure is considerably less uncomfortable compared to waxing. Many individuals describe it as painless, though some mention a sensation akin to a pinprick or a snap of a rubber band, accompanied by a gentle warmth.

How to prepare for laser hair removal

Before undergoing laser hair removal, men should follow specific steps to ensure a safe and successful treatment. Here’s a tailored checklist for men preparing for laser hair removal

Consultation

Schedule a consultation with a qualified laser hair removal specialist. Discuss your medical history, any medications you’re taking, and your specific goals for the treatment.

Avoid Sun Exposure

Steer clear of the sun and tanning beds for at least six weeks before the treatment. Sun exposure can increase the risk of complications and impact the effectiveness of the laser.

Avoid Hair Removal Methods

Refrain from waxing, plucking, or electrolysis for at least six weeks prior to the treatment. These methods can interfere with the laser’s ability to target hair follicles.

Shave the Area

Shave the area you want to be treated a day or two before the session. This allows the laser to focus on the hair follicles beneath the skin without affecting surface hair.

Avoid Skin Products

Stop using skincare products that might irritate the skin, such as retinoids or glycolic acid, a few days before the treatment.

Avoid Perfumes and Deodorants

On the treatment day, avoid using perfumes, deodorants, or any products in the area to be treated, as they can cause irritation.

Hydrate and Moisturize

Keep your skin well-hydrated and moisturized in the days leading up to the treatment. Well-hydrated skin tends to respond better to laser treatments.

Remove Makeup

If the treatment involves the face, remove any makeup or skincare products before the session.

Comfortable Clothing

Opt for loose and comfortable clothing for the appointment, especially if the laser hair removal is for a larger body area.

Follow Pre-Treatment Instructions

Adhere to any specific pre-treatment instructions provided by your laser hair removal specialist to ensure optimal results and minimize potential risks.

How Long Does It Take To See Results?

For the hair removal to work well, we need to aim at a specific time when the hair is growing. Each hair is at a different stage of growth when you start the treatment. So, you’ll need several sessions to catch the hairs when they are growing the most.

Usually, for a lasting effect, we suggest 8 to 12 hair removal sessions. These sessions are spread out every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on which part of your body you’re treating. 

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect

Initial Results

2-4 weeks after your first session: You may notice some areas with less hair growth.

4-6 weeks: More noticeable hair reduction and thinner hair strands in treated areas.

Continued Progress

6-12 sessions: Significant hair reduction, with 70-90% of hair eliminated in treated areas.

Maintenance sessions: Every 4-6 months, depending on individual hair growth, to maintain results.

Aftercare Tips for Laser Hair Removal

After your laser hair removal session, safeguard your skin by staying out of the sun for at least 24 hours. Alleviate any swelling or discomfort by applying a cold compress to the treated area, and opt for gentle soaps while avoiding harsh scrubs. Maintain regular moisturizing for optimal skin care, and refrain from shaving or waxing the treated area to support a smooth and effective recovery process.

How much is laser hair removal for men?

The cost of laser hair removal for men can vary widely depending on factors such as the treatment area, the number of sessions needed, and the geographical location of the clinic or spa. On average, laser hair removal for men can range from $200 to $900 per session. Larger treatment areas, such as the back or chest, may cost more than smaller areas like the face or underarms. It’s essential to consult with a laser hair removal specialist for a personalized assessment and pricing based on your specific needs and goals. Additionally, some clinics offer package deals for multiple sessions, which may provide cost savings compared to individual sessions.

Can skin tones affect the results of laser hair removal?

Yes, the color of your skin can affect how well laser hair removal works. It works best when your hair color is really different from your skin color. For example, if you have light skin and dark hair, it usually works better. The laser can then focus on the dark hair without causing problems for the surrounding skin. But if you have darker skin, it might need special tools or skills to avoid issues like dark or light spots. It’s important to talk to an expert to figure out the best approach based on your skin and hair colors.

Can I do laser hair removal at home?

Yes, you can find laser hair removal devices for home use, but they’re not as strong as the ones at the dermatologist’s office. That means you might need to use them more often. It’s a good idea to check with your doctor before doing laser hair removal at home, just to make sure it’s okay. And, of course, it’s always best to use a safe product.

The Best Laser Hair Removal Devices for Men

Braun IPL Permanent Hair Removal System

This device is top-notch—quick, works well, and simple to use. It’s our top pick because of its speed and effectiveness. With IPL technology, it adjusts the flash strength based on your skin tone, suitable for most skin tones. FDA-approved, it has 10 power settings, letting you customize your treatment for your skin tone and comfort level.

Nood The Flasher 2.0

Want to feel good about your body? Try Nood’s The Flasher. It works on all the places with hair—like your private parts, back, legs, and face. Use it regularly for eight weeks to see changes. Once you see results, you’ll want to keep using it until the hair stops growing completely.

BoSidin IPL Laser Permanent Cooling-Care Hair Removal Device

Using at-home hair removal devices can be uncomfortable, but this specific device aims to minimize any discomfort by incorporating an ice-cooling panel. Additionally, its precision head can rotate 180 degrees in both directions, providing easier access to hard-to-reach areas.

FAQ

1. Is laser treatment safe for men?

Yes. Laser hair removal treatments are secure, having received approval from the FDA, ensuring they do not lead to any undesired side effects.

2. Can men do lasers in private parts?

Yes. Unlike some other methods, it doesn’t enter your bloodstream or lymph nodes. As a result, it’s safe for sensitive areas like the male genital area, underarms, ears, or nose.

3. Does laser hair removal take longer for men?

Yes, laser hair removal typically takes longer for men than women. This is due to several factors, including higher testosterone levels and thicker, denser hair. Men may require 8-12 sessions compared to 6-8 for women.

Conclusion

To put it simply, laser hair removal is a useful and effective way to get rid of unwanted hair. It not only makes your skin smoother but also saves you time in the long run because you won’t have to deal with hair as much. It’s usually safe, but it’s important to be realistic about what to expect, as results can be different depending on your skin type and hair color.

Can you use Minoxidil for Beard Growth? Here’s what you should know

Some people think that beards and mustaches are like special decorations that make men look more manly. Many famous athletes, singers, and actors are working hard to have the coolest beard and mustache. Some of the celebrities who have made beards really popular are Brad Pitt, Idris Elba, and Bad Bunny. It’s not just about following the trend – some people like how beards change the way their face looks. Others grow beards because they don’t like shaving every day; it can be annoying and make their skin feel irritated.

But not everyone can grow a full and regular beard. Some people use a substance called minoxidil, which has been used by those dealing with hair loss. What exactly is minoxidil, and does it really help with growing beards? We’ll answer these questions and more in our latest article. Let’s get started!

What is Minoxidil?

Minoxidil, FDA-approved for treating hair loss and promoting hair regrowth, initially launched as a prescription medication called Rogaine in 1987. It’s now available without a prescription in foam or serum forms and can also be taken orally.

While minoxidil was originally intended for thinning hair and baldness on the scalp, it’s increasingly being used off-label to boost beard growth. According to trichologist and hair loss expert Precious Rutlin, consistent use of minoxidil has proven effective in helping some individuals regrow their hair, as demonstrated in clinical studies. However, she emphasizes that individual results may vary.

How does minoxidil work?

Research led by Jason Emer, a certified skin doctor in Los Angeles, explained that when minoxidil is used to widen blood vessels, it works by opening specific channels in muscle cells. This widening effect might boost the health of hair cells or follicles.

Dr. Dandy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, and Mohs surgeon at New York City’s Shafer Clinic said that minoxidil has been proven to be a beneficial method for enhancing hair growth. It fosters the circulation of oxygen, blood, and nutrients to the hair follicle, fortifying the follicle and promoting hair growth. Its primary application is to stimulate hair growth and impede the progression of balding.

Is minoxidil good for beard growth?

Scientists did some studies on using minoxidil to grow beards, and the results look good. Even though they haven’t studied it as much for beards as they have for head hair, the research suggests that minoxidil can make beards thicker and fuller. Putting minoxidil on areas with facial hair, like your beard and mustache, seems to work well for people wanting more facial hair.

It’s essential to know that using minoxidil for beard growth isn’t what it was made for. It’s like using something in a way that wasn’t originally planned. Like any medicine, everyone might react differently, and there could be side effects. Some people might get irritated skin, dryness, or redness when they put on the minoxidil. Following the right amount and how to put it on is crucial to avoid problems.

Before you start using minoxidil on your beard, it’s smart to talk to a doctor or a skin specialist. They can give you advice that fits your health history and check if there’s anything that could cause issues. Even though minoxidil seems like a good choice for a thicker beard, it’s also important to do other things, like taking care of your skin, eating well, and staying healthy overall. All these things together will give you the best results.

How to use Minoxidil

To get the best beard growth results, follow all of the following steps

Step 1: Cleanse and Dry Your Face

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or sweat. Pat your face dry with a clean towel.

Ensure your face is completely dry before applying minoxidil, as moisture can dilute the product and reduce its effectiveness.

Step 2: Apply Minoxidil Directly to the Beard Area

Use the dropper or applicator provided with the minoxidil solution to apply a small amount (approximately 1 mL) directly to your beard area.

Focus on areas where you want to promote hair growth, such as the cheeks, chin, and neckline. Use your fingertips to gently massage the minoxidil into your skin. Make sure the solution reaches the base of your hair follicles. Do not apply minoxidil to your eyes, lips, or any other areas of your face besides your beard.

Step 3: Let the Minoxidil Dry Completely

Let minoxidil dry completely on your skin before applying any other products, such as moisturizer or sunscreen. This process usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Try to let the minoxidil dry on the skin for that duration; otherwise, it won’t have the greatest impact on the skin.

Step 4: Repeat the Process Twice Daily

Apply minoxidil twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Consistency is key to achieving results. Aim to apply the minoxidil at the same time each day to maximize its effectiveness. Minoxidil is a treatment that needs to be applied daily for good long-term results.

Minoxidil for beards: Before and after results

Some people use minoxidil to help with their beard growth when they have challenges like a beard that’s not very full or has patches. Maybe their natural beard growth is not a lot, and they want a thicker, fuller beard to make their face look better. So, they try minoxidil to see if it can make a difference in how their facial hair looks.

People who use minoxidil regularly often see significant changes in their before-and-after pictures. Minoxidil helps new hair grow, making the beard denser, especially in areas where there wasn’t much hair before. Users often notice that their beard looks better and thicker, giving their face a more even and grown-up look. While everyone’s experience is different, and it takes time, the changes seen in before-and-after pictures show that minoxidil could be a good choice for those who want a fuller beard and a more satisfying facial hair look.

You can refer to some pictures before and after using Minoxidil.

Beard growth before Minoxidil treatment; after 2 months; after 3 months; after 5 months

Are there any side effects of using minoxidil for beard growth?

Yes, while it is generally safe and well-tolerated, it can cause some unwanted effects in some people.The usual problem people mention is skin irritation. Some other common issues are itching and flaking. Sometimes, hair might unexpectedly grow in places where you didn’t use the minoxidil.

Certain types of minoxidil have something called propylene glycol (PG), which helps minoxidil dissolve better. This makes it easier for minoxidil to get into the hair follicles. However, PG can be annoying, so they made a version without it called minoxidil foam. It goes on quicker, doesn’t spread as much, and is more comfortable to use.

Even though a bit of minoxidil can get into your body when you put it on your scalp, it’s not much (about 1.4%). Minoxidil doesn’t stick to the proteins in your blood or go into your brain, and most of it leaves your body through your kidneys within 4 days.

People have been using minoxidil for a long time to treat hair loss on the scalp for conditions like androgenetic alopecia. There haven’t been many reports of long-term issues with using minoxidil for these conditions.

Who Should Avoid Minoxidil?

Experts say that if your skin is sensitive or if you have ongoing skin issues like eczema or psoriasis, you need to be careful when using minoxidil to grow a beard. Dr. Engelman, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist advised: “If you have sensitive skin or skin conditions, it’s important to be cautious. Before you start using minoxidil, do a patch test. Keep a close eye on your skin while using it, and if you notice any issues, stop using it.”

What about using minoxidil along with your other skincare routine? Dr. Engelman said it’s okay to clean and exfoliate your skin before using minoxidil. However, she added, “If your skin is sensitive, be careful with exfoliating because it can make your skin more sensitive to minoxidil.” 

FAQ

1. Does minoxidil grow a permanent beard?

As of now, there is no scientific evidence indicating that minoxidil-induced beards will persist permanently once the treatment is discontinued. Achieving a full beard is a gradual process, with many men not realizing their complete beard potential until their mid-30s.

2. Can a 17 year old use minoxidil for beard?

Minoxidil seems to be well-tolerated in individuals under 18. A study involving 13 boys, aged 13 to 17 years (mean age, 15.9 years), experiencing early male balding, affirmed the safety of minoxidil in this age group through an open-label investigation.

3. What happens if I stop using minoxidil?

If you quit using minoxidil, you might lose the hair you gained or kept while using the medicine. Minoxidil only helps when you use it, and once you stop, your hair follicles will go back to their usual growth pattern, causing potential hair loss.

4.Is there a better option than minoxidil?

You can consider other options instead of minoxidil, like finasteride, spironolactone, or laser therapy. Look into these choices to find what might be best for you based on your needs and preferences.

5. Can I skip minoxidil for a week?

Although skipping won’t harm your hair, it will make the medicine less effective. It’s usually okay to miss a dose now and then, but skipping once a week will make them less effective.

Conclusion

Beard growth with minoxidil has emerged as a promising solution for stimulating, offering hope to countless individuals seeking a fuller, more defined beard. While results may vary depending on individual factors, the potential for significant growth is undeniable. However, remember that consistency and patience are key. It’s a journey, not a destination. Be kind to your skin, monitor progress, and embrace the gradual transformation. With dedication and the right approach, Minoxidil can help you unlock the beard-growing potential you’ve always desired.