Aside from rhinoplasty and otoplasty, cosmetic procedures have been reserved mainly for women. Historically, the perception has been that a “manly” man would not even have a desire to change anything about his appearance. We now understand that men have just as many cosmetic concerns as women. Some of them pertain to aging, and some to genetic makeup. Either way, we are pleased to live in a day and age where men can be open about their desire to look and feel better.
At Northwestern Specialists and Plastic Surgery, we proudly treat men with procedures for body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and even hair removal. Here, we discuss how laser hair removal works and why this treatment makes sense for the average man.
How Laser Hair Removal Differs from Conventional Grooming
Most men who want to have smooth, hair-free skin achieve this goal by shaving. This grooming technique has been the norm for ages, and it works – for about a day. The necessity for daily shaving is not only time consuming, but it also presents other concerns for many men; concerns such as razor bumps and ingrown hairs. This can happen because hair is only cut off at the surface of the skin.
As new techniques have become available, men have gained the option of having unwanted hair waxed off. This method of grooming works by pulling large amounts of hair strands from their follicles using warm wax. Ouch! In addition to being pretty uncomfortable for the average guy, waxing is also something that has to be repeated to maintain smooth skin. Furthermore, the issue of ingrown hair is not eliminated with waxing.
Laser hair removal does not cut strands of hair nor does it pull them out; this technique causes hair to vaporize into thin air. The wavelengths of light emitted from the laser device pass over the skin and get absorbed by the pigment in each strand of hair. The light then transforms into heat, which instantly vaporizes hair and disables the functionality of the hair follicle. After just one treatment, the skin will be soft and smooth.
An important note about laser hair removal for men is that permanent hair reduction is only possible through a series of treatments. Scheduling sessions weeks apart, we can address the entire cycle of hair growth phases and achieve lasting results.
Learn more about laser hair removal for the man in your life or for yourself. Contact our Chicago office at (312) 266-6240.