Gone are the days when hair removal was a girly thing. Nowadays more men prefer to thin out their body hair rather than removing them completely. Research has shown that many men opt for body hair removal mainly to control their stubborn unibrow or trim the unwanted ear hair or to show off their six or eight packs a little. This article provides an insight from permanent to temporary, expensive to cheap, hair removal for men, leaving a smooth, baby-ed skin that they will be a little happy to camp in.
The following techniques will help many men in deciding the procedure that will suit their choices as well as pockets.
1. Laser hair removal treatments
The laser is a fast and a gentle permanent hair removal procedure. Though the procedure doesn’t always guarantee the hairs to be gone for good.
How it works: Laser light energy penetrating into the hair shaft, thereby inhibiting only the hair root growth and not the follicle where hair growth initiates. Hence the possibility of another hair to grow in this place is a difficult option.
Treatment time: Eight sessions of thirty minutes is the recommended treatment for a favorable outcome. Some people are also recommended for maintenance sessions post hair removal to inhibit the new hair growth.
Effective for: Trimming or removing hair on the back, chest, stomach, shoulders, and genital area. Works best on light skin with dark hair and is not advised for blond or white hair. Black skin is seen to respond well only to the Nd: YAG laser type.
Pros: Is a less painful procedure and the dynamic laser cooling device is seen to not only calm and soothe but also protect the skin.
Price range: A full body treatment is priced around $399, while a specific body part like the back and shoulders would cost $199.
Pointers and tricks:
- A patch test is highly recommended to check for the skin sensitivity.
- Laser therapy is not recommended for men with recent skin tans as the lasers at times are seen to target the skin pigment cells.
- For effective treatment outcomes avoid skipping the assigned appointments.
- Refrain from hot showers, swimming pools, scented body cosmetics or tight-fitting clothing for a day post-treatment to alleviate the chances of irritation.
Recommended products:
*https://www.amazon.com/MLAY-Permanent-Hair-Removal-Device/dp/B01N3R2XWW/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533497862&sr=1-4&keywords=laser+hair+removal+for+men
* https://www.amazon.com/Gillette-Silk-Expert-Intense-SensoAdapt-Technology/dp/B075CQG667/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533497921&sr=1-5&keywords=laser%2Bhair%2Bremoval%2Bfor%2Bmen&th=1
* https://www.amazon.com/MANGROOMER-ULTIMATE-Shaver-Absorber-Extreme/dp/B00FULYKG4/ref=sr_1_10_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533497949&sr=1-10&keywords=laser+hair+removal+for+men
* https://www.amazon.com/IPL-Hair-Removal-Permanent-Professional/dp/B07DF58G4N/ref=sr_1_17_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533498002&sr=1-17&keywords=laser+hair+removal+for+men
2. Waxing
Waxing is indeed a painful process but the waxing methods that are available in the market today are far more upmarket and civilized, especially when a man seeks professional help.
How it works: Soy waxing creamy lotion strips adhere only to the body hair. Post a few minutes drying these strips are pulled off in a similar fashion to the bandage pulling for an effective hair removal.
Treatment time: Depending on the body part that needs to be worked on the procedure is seen to last from 10 minutes to an hour.
Effective for: Hair removal on legs, underarms, arms, ears, and eyebrow shaping.
Pros: Suits all hair types and colors, and is a good option for folks considering permanent hair removal before opting techniques like the laser or electrolysis.
Cons: This technique is seen to be painful on the sensitive regions like the groin. The thicker the hair more is the associated pain and some men also experience redness or bleeding post the treatment.
Price range: Depending on the waxing area and the salon opted a waxing procedure can range from $20-$50. The results are seen to last for 4-6 weeks.
Pointers and tricks:
- Prior to the treatment, the skin needs to be exfoliated to remove the dead skin cells and to reduce the likeliness of ingrown hair.
- It is always recommended to refrain from lotions and creams prior to the treatment.
- To make things less painful, it is recommended to trim the hair back a little but always keep in mind to at least leave 1 cm of hair for effective waxing process.
- The was needs to be removed with one clean and swift movement. Do not try to peel the wax slowly.
- Always strip off the wax strips in the opposite direction of the hair growth and always work in small sections.
- For men who prefer to wax at the home comforts, professionals advise the use of pre-made strips that are easy and hassle-free to use. Make sure to activate the wax by warming them between the palms before applying to the intended area, and rub firmly. Ask for additional help from a third person if required.
- To avoid the initial sting, try tapping or pressing the skin lightly with aid of the fingertips.
- If skin feels red and sore post the treatment, gently apply a cold, wet flannel on the waxed area for a few minutes to cool the skin.
- Avoid using alcohol-based fragrances and anything that causes profuse sweating for a day post the hair removal therapy like hot showers, exercise, and vigorous sexual contact.
- Looking after the skin post-wax is crucial in order to avoid nasty rashes. As this treatment can sometimes result in small spots post few days due to the blocked hair follicles. To minimize the risk, use a product with natural skin soothers and repairers like Elemis Tea Tree S.O.S Spray.
Recommended products:
*https://www.amazon.com/Hair-Removal-Strips-Legs-Count/dp/B015X0KC8G/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1533497085&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=hair+removal+waxing+strips+for+men&psc=1
* https://www.amazon.com/Counts-Remover-Depilatory-Removal-Double-Sided/dp/B07C3LP15J/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533497121&sr=8-4&keywords=hair+removal+waxing+strips+for+men
* https://www.amazon.com/Tifara-Beauty-Woven-Facial-Strips/dp/B01L8298HY/ref=sr_1_11_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1533497189&sr=8-11-spons&keywords=hair+removal+waxing+strips+for+men&psc=1
*https://www.amazon.com/Parissa-Strips-Removal-Waxing-Aftercare/dp/B007YQWAPG/ref=sr_1_7_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533497217&sr=8-7&keywords=hair+removal+waxing+strips+for+men
3. Electrolysis
How it works: This is a laser form that destroys the growth center of the hair with chemical or heat energy. After a very fine probe is inserted into the hair follicle, the hair is removed with the aid of tweezers.
Treatment time: Each treatment lasts from 10 to 20 minutes. For a lot of hair removal, it could take up to a year of weekly treatments. Since each hair is treated one at a time, taking a glance at the thickness of the “fur” will give a vague idea of the required treatment span.
Effective for: Works well on larger as well as smaller, problem areas like ears, eyebrows, and feet.
Pros: Suits all hair and skin types as the hair follicle is targeted directly. This is the most effective permanent hair removal solution for men.
Cons: This is an extremely time-consuming and expensive procedure. The discoloration of the skin is experienced if not performed by professionals, hence please be careful while choosing a therapist.
Price range: Approximately $40 per treatment.
Recommended products:
*https://www.amazon.com/Clean-Easy-Personal-Electrolysis-Face/dp/B01FHVCSY2/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533502139&sr=1-1&keywords=clean+and+easy+electrolysis
* https://www.amazon.com/Clean-Easy-Deluxe-Electrolysis-Coarse/dp/B00011JN5G/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533502177&sr=1-2&keywords=clean+and+easy+electrolysis
* https://www.amazon.com/Clean-Easy-Deluxe-Home-Electrolysis/dp/B002QXLM3I/ref=sr_1_8_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533502206&sr=1-8&keywords=clean+and+easy+electrolysis
* https://www.amazon.com/Home-Electrolysis-Removal-Smooth-Treatment/dp/B079ZJS18B/ref=sr_1_50_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533502228&sr=1-50&keywords=clean+and+easy+electrolysis
4. Specialty razors
How it works: Ergonomically designed handles help to safely reach problematic areas like the shoulders, back, and also the private areas.in a similar process like using a shower scrub brush.
Treatment time: Lasts 20 minutes to an hour and the results lasts for a week or so.
Effective for: Any area of the back, shoulders, or buttocks. Shaving the genital area is also a possibility, but not this procedure is generally not recommended since a cut in this region could lead to serious complications.
Pros: One of the easiest cheapest ways to get rid of unwanted hair. Preferably recommended to be performed under the shower, as it is seen to softens the skin.
Cons: Shaving is effectively seen to cut the hair off on the skin, but not the root. The procedure needs to be performed slowly with immense patience especially over larger areas like the legs and shins as the chances of bloodsheds are higher in this treatment.
Price: Under $40, plus additional blades and shaving creams.
Pointers and tricks:
- Avoid attempting to shave hard to reach places by yourself.
- It is recommended to shave in the shower as the steam and the hot water will aid in softening the hair shafts that will in turn aid in an easier cutting.
- Use plenty of shaving gel or cream when shaving the face and always shave with the direction of hair growth.
- For an easier shaving process, trim the hairs back first with the aid of a beard trimmer, hair clippers, or a body hair groomer.
- The risk of ingrown hairs can be reduced by exfoliating the skin with a body scrub twice a week post shaving or invest in a pair of exfoliating gloves.
- The use of a post-shave balm is recommended for soothing the skin.
- For men who prefer a more natural look, a body hair trimmer is highly recommended over shaving.
Recommended products:
*https://www.amazon.com/Remington-PG6250-WetTech-Lithium-Grooming/dp/B00D8S8SGE/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533498676&sr=1-2&keywords=shaving%2Bproducts%2Bfor%2Bmen%2Bbody%2Bhair&th=1
* https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Liquid-Ingrown-Hairs/dp/B00BVO6RT2/ref=sr_1_10_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533498734&sr=1-10&keywords=shaving+products+for+men+body+hair
*https://www.amazon.com/Gillette-Fusion5-ProShield-Refills-Packaging/dp/B06WWPLGLF/ref=sr_1_30_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533498783&sr=1-30&keywords=shaving+products+for+men+body+hair
*https://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-Bodygroomer-BG5025-49/dp/B078G9BKBW/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533498827&sr=1-5&keywords=shaving+products+for+men+body+hair
5. Depilatories/cream hair removers
Hair removal creams are a wax-free process for unwanted hair removal.
How it works: A chemical compound suspended in a gel or cream base is seen to attack and dissolve the hair proteins causing an instant hair loosening and fall out.
Treatment time: Thirty to 60 minutes, though the compounds sit on the skin for about five minutes only. the results are seen to last from a week to several weeks.
Effective for: Back, chest, arms, and legs. The skin around the brow and the genitals may also be very sensitive for this hair removal treatment.
Pros: An inexpensive DIY treatment wherein most of the creams can be bought from a local chemist or supermarket. The cream hair removal products do not affect the hair thickness hence the results are seen to last longer than a shaving treatment.
Cons: Apply the cream, with utmost care as once the cream comes in an touch with hair, the hair removal process initiates, even if you try washing or wiping it away. A skin sensitivity test is recommended before applying it to a large part of the body. The cream needs to refrain from an application over scars, moles, broken and sunburnt skin to avoid irritation.
Price range: Ranges from $10-$20 with a home kit; $25-$50 or more for a salon treatment.
Pointers and tricks:
A patch test on the inside of the arm is recommended to check for sensitivity to any of the cream’s ingredients.
- It is highly recommended to strictly follow the instructions letters accompanying the products.
- Rinse the skin with plenty of cold water post the cream therapy.
- Wear loose fitted cloths post-treatment for 24 hours and avoid getting overly hot and sweaty.
- Use an antibacterial spray to avoid skin breakouts.
Recommended products:
*https://www.amazon.com/Removal-Depilatory-Painless-Permanent-Underarm/dp/B07DLTPQCL/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533501631&sr=1-5&keywords=depilatory+cream+for+men+body+hair
* https://www.amazon.com/Nair-Hair-Removal-Body-Cream/dp/B00NFUPJ2G/ref=sr_1_6_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533501666&sr=1-6&keywords=depilatory+cream+for+men+body+hair
* https://www.amazon.com/ThinkMax-Painless-Removal-Depilatory-Epilation/dp/B074N3QM7N/ref=sr_1_16_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533501697&sr=1-16&keywords=depilatory+c
* https://www.amazon.com/Veet-Hair-Removal-Creme-200ml/dp/B000KKNQBK/ref=sr_1_17_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533501739&sr=1-17
6. Trimming
Trimming the body hair is one of the oldest hair removal procedure for an easy way of looking after the appearance without any hassles.
How it works: This hair removal technique doesn’t pull off the hair but certainly gets rid of the excess and aids in it keeping things clean and tidy.
Treatment time: Five to 15 minutes depending on the trimming area and hair thickness.
Effective for: Ideal for areas such as the brows, armpits and the pubic region.
Pros: No possible side effects are noticed. This process helps a man get a look of a subtle more groomed, by retaining some body hair to show off, which is not only neat but also in check.
Cons: The outcomes of this treatment is short hence regular attention is required to keep things in order.
Recommended products:
*https://www.amazon.com/OSTER-Classic-Universal-Clipper-76076010/dp/B00070E8LA
* https://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-Groomer-MG3750-trimmer/dp/B01K1HPA60
* https://www.amazon.com/Remington-Virtually-Indestructible-21-Piece-HC5850
* https://www.amazon.com/Gillette-Fusion-ProGlide-Groomer -Trimmer
7. Tweezing
Tweezing is an ideal way of getting rid of the hair anywhere on the body or for tidying up certain regions where there is not much body hair.
How it works: Tweezers are used to pluck the unwanted hair.
Pros: This is one of the best body hair removal treatments for men with respect to the outcomes and safety. Because of the hair removal from the roots with no need for chemical compounds or irritable factors.
Cons: Tweezing can be painful, and the possibility of ingrown hairs are high. Additionally, this process requires the removal of one hair at a time, hence it is not a recommended form of hair removal for the areas with a large hair.
Pointers and tricks:
- Prior to the procedure, it is worth having a hot shower or splashing warm water over the intended area to not only open up the pores of the skin but also reduces the pain during the hair removal.
- It is advised to gently pull the hair in the direction of hair growth so as to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs or skin irritation.
Recommended products:
*https://www.amazon.com/Cliganic-Professional-Slant-Tweezers-Precision/dp/B01N6BN7O4/ref=sr_1_3_sspa?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533504917&sr=1-3-spons&keywords=tweezers%2Bfor%2Bmen%2Bhair&th=1
* https://www.amazon.com/Tweezers-4-Piece-Professional-Stainless-Travel/dp/B07CZKGWF9/ref=sr_1_6_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533504953&sr=1-6&keywords=tweezers%2Bfor%2Bmen%2Bhair&th=1
*https://www.amazon.com/Tweezers-Precision-Professional-Stainless-Ameauty/dp/B078RZT9YG/ref=sr_1_16_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533504981&sr=1-16&keywords=tweezers+for+men+hair
* https://www.amazon.com/Cocos-Closet-Tweezer-Eyebrows-Stainless/dp/B01LY90N4N/ref=sr_1_14_sspa?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533505014&sr=1-14-spons&keywords=tweezers+for+men+hair&psc=1
8. Sugaring
Sugaring is just another type of waxing also commonly termed as “Persian waxing”.
How it works: This hair removal process requires a sugar-based solution over which a band of cloth is applied. After the sugary wax has cooled and hardened, the band of cloth is stripped off, together with the wax and the hair.
Pros: The majority of sugar pastes are completely natural and can be made at home. Because the paste is seen to stick to the hairs rather than the skin as in waxing, this process may prove to be a less painful procedure of effective hair removal. It also involves less redness and skin irritation, hence is an attractive method for those with sensitive skin.
Cons: The possibility of ingrown hairs are high.
Recommended products:
*https://www.amazon.com/Cocojojo-Sugaring-Removal-Formula-Teatree/dp/B00F24WB2Y/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533505493&sr=1-5&keywords=sugaring+for+men+hair
* https://www.amazon.com/Sugaring-Removal-Depressor-Moisturizing-Brochure/dp/B00C48WYIM/ref=sr_1_6_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533505529&sr=1-6&keywords=sugaring+for+men+hair
* https://www.amazon.com/Cocojojo-Sugaring-Calendula-Chamomile-Epilation/dp/B007DMC9D4/ref=sr_1_10_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533505558&sr=1-10&keywords=sugaring+for+men+hair
* https://www.amazon.com/Cocojojo-Sugaring-Paste-Formula-Teatree/dp/B00FAH91HG/ref=sr_1_9_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1533505585&sr=1-9&keywords=sugaring+for+men+hair
9. Threading
One of the oldest methods of body hair removal that involves rolling twisted threads over hairlines to remove unwanted hair.
Pros: An inexpensive, fast and slightly uncomfortable technique that requires a very skilled practitioner.
Cons: A difficult method that takes many months to perfect, hence it not likely recommended to be done alone or at home.
Effective on: Flat surfaces and removes hair in straight lines, hence is more suitable for the face and other small regions and is not advised for larger or curved regions.
Recommended products:
* https://www.amazon.com/Wishesport-Threader-Threading-Stainless-Epilator/dp/B07CK2BLX9/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533511296&sr=8-5&keywords=threading+hair+removal+for+men
* https://www.amazon.com/ASTRQLE-Professional-Trimmer-Threading-Scissors/dp/B074MX1VFH/ref=sr_1_7_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533511321&sr=8-7&keywords=threading+hair+removal+for+men
* https://www.amazon.com/Lightton-Removal-Portable-Epilator-Removes/dp/B07CC971KT/ref=sr_1_6_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533511358&sr=8-6&keywords=threading+hair+removal+for+men