If you’re sick and tired of shaving every single day, you’re definitely not alone. Increasingly more men are opting for long-lasting solutions like laser hair removal (LHR). But, is it right for you?
Here’s everything you need to know about the best laser hair removal for men in Virginia, from how it works to whether it’s worth the money!
First Things First, What Is Laser Hair Removal, and How Does It Permanently Reduce Hair?
You have undeniably heard of LHR and all of its praises, but you might not know exactly what it is or even how it works. To keep it short and sweet, laser hair removal is a light-based hair reduction method that uses – you guessed it – a laser to target your hair follicles and stop growth.
The light pulses from the laser heats up your follicles and either damages or destroys them while leaving surrounding skin unharmed.
This is very beneficial if you’re tired of having to do constant maintenance on either your facial or body hair and want to cut your grooming time down dramatically.
What Areas of the Face and Body Do Men Most Commonly Treat Using LHR?
As a general rule, virtually anywhere that grows hair can be treated with laser hair removal, but you should have the area assessed first to make sure this method will actually be beneficial for it. Also, men typically have different hair removal needs than women, with the most popular treatment areas being:
- Back
- Beard line
- Chest
- Neck
- Pubic area and buttocks
- Shoulders
- Stomach
- Underarms
Of course, your goals may look different than these commonly targeted areas, and that’s a-okay! One of the best things about laser hair removal for men is just how versatile and customizable it is.
Who Qualifies? Can Men With Dark Skin Have Laser Hair Removal?
Despite all of its benefits, not everyone can safely or successfully benefit from LHR, although most people are able to.
In order to be considered an ideal candidate for this hair reduction method, you should be in good physical health with realistic expectations.
If you are prone to keloids, cold sores, or genital herpes, or if you frequently tan or spend time in the sun without UV protection, you should let your provider know beforehand so they can evaluate your risk. Also, be sure to disclose your health history including any medications you’re currently taking.
While laser hair removal is safe for all skin tones, ranging from fair to dark, it is more challenging and even impossible in some cases if you have blonde, gray, or red hair. This is why it’s important to have a consultation with a board-certified laser specialist first.
What Are the Different Lasers, and Who Do They Work Best For?
It’s important to do your research on the various laser systems available, and this is especially true if you’re a man of color seeking long-lasting hair reduction. Here are the different types of lasers used for this treatment, as well as a description of how they work and who they’re best for.
- Alexandrite: Shorter wavelength, penetrates hair follicles the least, best for light skin tones with medium to light brown hair
- Diode: Longer wavelength, built-in cooling due to pauses between pulses, best for light to medium skin tones
- IPL: Technically not a laser, uses multiple wavelengths of light, adjustable and versatile for various skin tones and hair colors
- Nd:YAG: Longest wavelength, most likely to destroy the hair follicle and not just damage, most versatile, and preferred for dark hair on deep skin tones
- Ruby: Oldest laser system, best for light or fine hair on light skin tones, slowly becoming obsolete
All of these options are FDA approved and thoroughly researched, and one isn’t necessarily better than the other. That being said, most providers offer and prefer to use alexandrite, diode, and / or Nd:YAG.
How Much Does Laser Hair Removal for Men Cost?
According to the most recent data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of laser hair removal is $389 for one session. But, it can cost anywhere from a mere $100 to as much as $1,000 for one session per area, so it’s best to receive a personalized quote from your provider.
Men’s hair is typically thicker and more stubborn when it comes to removal, so some medical spas price their treatments for men higher than they do for women. This is especially true for hair reduction on the back, chest, stomach, and nether regions.
Keep in mind that you will need a series of appointments in order to achieve the most hair removal possible. It is often more affordable to purchase multiple sessions at once for an overall reduced price, or purchase full-body hair removal instead of paying for multiple areas to save money.
Most providers offer payment plans and exclusive special promotions as well, so be sure to ask about these options.
Should You Opt for At-Home Laser Devices, or Choose Professional Services?
There are many do-it-yourself laser hair removal devices being sold online and in stores, but just because they made it on the shelf doesn’t mean that they’re any good. Almost all of these devices use IPL, which is considered to be the most ineffective method.
These at-home devices can be pretty expensive as well. so, if there’s no guarantee that it will work the way you want it to, then why waste the money? Plus, there’s too much trial and error that can lead to ineffective treatment at best and actual harm to your skin at worst.
As a general rule, it’s best to choose a professionally administered service when it comes to aesthetic procedures like LHR.
How Long Does It Take to See Results? Are Results Actually Permanent?
Your hair grows in different cycles, which is why multiple appointments are necessary to ensure that all hair follicles in their active growth phase are being targeted. Because of this, it can take quite some time to see dramatic improvement.
Following the recommended time frame between appointments, which is six to eight weeks, and committing to your treatment plan is the best way to achieve impressive results. The best laser hair removal for men in Virginia can deliver over 80% permanent hair reduction.
That’s right – permanent! When hair follicles are destroyed, hair can’t and won’t regrow. If the follicles are just damaged, it takes a long time for the hair to grow back if it even does. Plus, that hair will be lighter, finer, and much easier to manage.
Bottom line: laser hair removal for men is a popular way to save time and money and improve your confidence overall. It’s time to say goodbye to frustrating and painful waxing, shaving, and plucking, as well as all of the side effects they come with!
Choose Prolase Medispa to Experience the Best Laser Hair Removal for Men in Virginia!
Prolase Medispa is the leading provider of laser services like laser hair removal in Falls Church and surrounding areas, proudly offering high-quality treatments, unbeatable skills, and a welcoming environment for patients of all genders.
Are you ready to save time and money, and say goodbye to constant shaving and waxing? Then contact us today at 703-747-9443 to book your consultation and learn more!
