The Basics Of Laser Hair Removal For Men

Oftentimes, laser hair removal is associated with women. However, men are able to reach similar goals with laser hair removal of their own. As this is not common knowledge, there are important questions that men need to be answered about laser hair removal. Here, we are giving the basics of laser hair removal for men, so you can feel confident making that decision for yourself. 

Learning About Laser Hair Removal For Men 

At O’Neill Plastic Surgery, we are able to provide laser hair removal for just about anyone. We use the latest IPL technology to reduce hair growth in approximately 6-10 treatments. Your provider will give you a more realistic expectation as the area is assessed.  It is designed to expertly work for different skin and hair types and is best on hair that is dark and coarse. 

What is laser hair removal? 

IPL Laser hair removal stands for Intense Pulse Light. This is a treatment that uses a pulsed beam of light to remove unwanted hair.  According to the Mayo Clinic, the laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair. This light energy is converted to heat, causing damage to the hair follicles that produce hair. This damage is what prevents or delays future hair growth. 

Why do men get laser hair removal? 

Men get laser hair removal for a variety of reasons. Men often want to rid themselves of excess body hair on their back, chest, stomach, or anywhere else they feel is too much hair. They often just want to see less hair, not rid themselves of it together. 

This also can often be a hygienic solution for men. While hair itself is not lacking hygiene, men often want to relieve the irritation that can happen with too much hair. It can also be a solution to easier facial grooming and ridding themselves of ingrown hair issues. Finally, men often use laser hair removal as a solution to balding when the hair becomes thin enough that they do not want it anymore. 

How much pain occurs with laser hair removal? 

Due to the use of a laser, there is a slight discomfort associated with the treatment. During laser hair removal for men, there are a few factors to consider. It often varies based on the location of the body and is quickly relieved right after the pulse. It is often described as the feeling of a hot rubber band snap. We do offer a numbing agent for smaller areas of the body for your comfort. 

How often do men have to get laser hair removal? 

The rate at which men have to come back for laser hair removal treatments is on a patient-by-patient basis. For example, a man’s chest may require 6 to 10 sessions spaced by about 6 weeks apart to see the long-term results. This is why the process is often labeled as hair reduction because new hair follicles can grow back in some people’s cases. Touch-ups after your initial series are likely.

What do men have to do before laser hair removal? 

Laser hair removal for men does not have much preparation. Before men attend their laser hair removal sessions, there are a few things to consider. It is often a good idea to shave the area before the procedure. Avoid overexposure to the sun, tanning bed, or tanning creams for a few weeks leading up to your treatment day, as well as post-treatment. Your provider will inform you of further instruction and care. 


Laser hair removal for men has many candidates. If there are any areas of hair that you struggle with, it may be time to consider this treatment for yourself. Are you looking for a location to meet your hair removal needs? O’Neill Plastic Surgery is a great option for you to consider. Find out more about our laser hair removal here or give us a call at (843) 881-2130.

A picture of Patrick J. O’Neill, MD wearing his doctor attire.

About the Author

Upon completing medical school at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC, Dr. O’Neill completed nine years of residency training. These nine years included a full general surgery and a plastic surgery residency, both at the Medical University of South Carolina, and a hand and microsurgery fellowship at the Kleinert Institute for Hand and Microsurgery. Dr. O’Neill has extensive certifications, training, skills, and knowledge that make him a successful physician who can carry out your next plastic surgery procedure. His expertise and technique will result in the beautiful and natural look you desire post surgery.

Board Certified:
American Board of Surgery
American Board of Plastic Surgery
Sub-Certification in Hand and Microsurgery

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