Laser Hair Removal Men’s Face

Stop the Stubble for Good: A Guy’s Guide to Laser Hair Removal 

Nothing feels quite as satisfying as a smooth, freshly-shaven face. But for many men, what starts as a baby soft shave in the morning leads to a five o’clock shadow by noon. The hours of your day spent managing facial hair with shaving, plucking, and other tedious grooming can really add up.

If you’re tired of spending time and money on short-lived solutions for unwanted facial hair, laser hair removal may be the answer. This innovative treatment can safely and effectively reduce hair growth on your face for months – or even years – at a time.

At Ethos Spa, our experienced providers use advanced laser technology to help men achieve near-permanent (or permanent) smooth skin on their face, neck, and beard areas. Read on to learn all about how laser hair removal works and the life-changing results it can bring to your appearance and confidence.

The Struggle of Shaving: Why Men Want Facial Laser Hair Removal

For those blessed with quick hair growth, shaving can feel like a daily – or even twice daily – chore. Constantly shaving your stubble, beard, mustache, and sideburns eats away your time, which you could have invested in more important activities.

The daily ritual of shaving can also wreak havoc on your skin over time. Passing a sharp razor over the same area again and again often leads to painful bumps, irritation, and ingrown hairs – a condition known as pseudofolliculitis barbae. This can be especially problematic for men with curly hair or sensitive skin types prone to inflammation.

While men initially start shaving to look neat and well-groomed, the frequent shaving itself can unfortunately have the opposite effect. Red, irritated skin with dark hair peeking through does not make for the cleanest appearance.

Fortunately, today’s men have an innovative solution to banish the beard, mustache, neck hair, and unruly sideburns for good – laser hair removal. This treatment can provide the freedom of being hair-free without the hassle, cost, discomfort, and upkeep of daily shaving and other methods.

How Laser Technology Targets and Eliminates Facial Hair

Laser hair removal has grown in popularity for both women and men thanks to advancements in the technology. Lasers can now zero in on coarse, dark hairs without damaging the surrounding skin.

Want to know how laser hair removal works its magic? Allow us to explain:

1. The laser emits a highly concentrated beam of light that selectively targets the pigment in hair follicles on the face or other treatment areas. The light pulses for just fractions of a second, heating up the hair follicles.
2. This heat damages the follicles to the point where they cannot produce new hair growth. The destroyed follicles eventually get eliminated by the body’s immune system over the following weeks.
3. The lasers spare the skin cells around each follicle. 

Lasers are the perfect solution for removing facial hair because they can selectively target coarse, dark hairs while minimizing trauma to the sensitive skin on the face. This level of precision cannot be matched by shaving, plucking, threading, or other hair removal techniques.

With laser hair removal, it’s possible to get stubble-free skin on your face that lasts weeks or months between treatments – not just hours like with shaving.

Over a series of treatments, laser can provide up to 90% permanent facial hair reduction or even total removal, freeing you from ingrown hairs, razor burn, and 5 o’clock shadow for good.

Benefits of Laser Hair Removal for Guys

Now that the technology exists to get facial hair removal that lasts, thousands of men are taking advantage of laser to transform their daily grooming routine.

There are many compelling reasons to consider laser hair removal for the face and neck beyond just saving time. The benefits for men include:

• Less frequent shaving – Laser hair removal significantly reduces the need for shaving in between treatments. For some men, this means shaving just once every few weeks instead of daily. Others are able to ditch the razor entirely after completing the recommended laser treatment sessions.
• Prevention of in-grown hairs – Ingrown hairs form when newly growing facial hair gets trapped under the skin surface. This causes inflammation, bumps, and pus-filled skin lesions. Laser hair removal prevents this by damaging hair follicles so no new growth can form to get trapped below.
• Say goodbye to razor burn and bumps – The constant irritation that accompanies frequent shaving often shows up as embarrassing red, bumpy skin. By not having to shave as often, your skin gets a chance to heal.
• Clearer and more even skin tone – When hair follicles become inflamed from repeated shaving and ingrown hairs, the skin develops an uneven, blotchy appearance. Removing facial hair at the root evens out skin tone.
• Saves money on razors and shaving products – No more need to continually buy replacement cartridges, shaving cream, aftershave, etc. The cost of laser hair removal pays for itself over time.
• Cleaner, well-groomed appearance – Laser allows for maintaining a neat, professionally groomed look 24/7.
• Improved self-confidence – Looking better groomed and not having to worry about shaving can provide a real self-esteem boost.

With so many advantages, it’s easy to see why laser hair removal has become the first choice for men seeking smooth, hair-free skin that shaving simply cannot deliver long-term.

Who is a Good Candidate for Laser Facial Hair Removal?

While laser works well for most skin types, the best candidates for permanent facial hair reduction have:

1. Thick, coarse hair – Laser targets the pigment in the hair follicle, so it works best on thicker, darker hair as opposed to fine or light-colored hair. Light hair lacks enough pigment for the laser to latch onto.
2. Fair to olive skin – Those with fair to medium skin tones tend to experience the best laser hair removal results. For safety reasons, settings on lasers used for darker skin need to be adjusted lower. The key is to use the appropriate laser and settings for each skin type.
3. No underlying skin conditions – Skin conditions like active acne, eczema, or psoriasis in the treatment area can increase the risk of adverse reactions. However, having a skin condition does not necessarily mean you cannot have laser hair removal; it depends on the specific condition and the health of the skin in the treatment area.
4. No medications causing photosensitivity – Antibiotics or other meds that cause sensitivity to light may preclude laser treatment. It is essential to consult with a professional to determine if your medications could interfere with the procedure.

During your consultation, a laser technician can evaluate your unique hair color and skin type to determine if laser hair removal is right for you. With the range of devices available today, most men can safely achieve significant facial hair removal.

Finding the Right Laser Hair Removal Provider

With the rising popularity of laser hair removal among men, many medispas now offer these treatments. However, laser hair removal on the sensitive facial region is one cosmetic procedure you don’t want to have done just anywhere.

The lasers used for hair removal emit powerful beams of concentrated light. In the wrong hands, they can cause painful burns or even permanent scarring if proper protocols aren’t followed.

At a dedicated laser facility, you can count on:

• Advanced laser technology designed specifically for hair removal
• Technicians experienced in treating men’s faces
• Adjustable device settings to customize for your skin type
• Strict safety standards to prevent burns
• Medical supervision of your treatments and progress
• A personalized plan for optimal results

A reputable center will also provide a complimentary consultation to determine if laser is right for you prior to your first session. Beware of places offering laser hair removal deals or encouraging treatments without an evaluation first.

Do your research to choose a center that specializes in laser treatments for men. The expertise and care at a qualified dermatology-based facility help ensure you get the safe, effective results you want without complications.

Preparing Your Skin for Laser Hair Removal

Achieving smooth, stubble-free skin through laser hair removal involves more than just showing up and having your face zapped.

Following proper protocols before and after laser sessions helps allow the treatments to work safely and effectively. Here are key steps for preparing your face and beard area for laser hair removal:

• Shave before your appointment – Laser targets the hair follicle beneath the skin. Any hair above the surface can absorb some of the laser energy, making treatment less effective. Remove visible hair growth by shaving 12-24 hours prior to your visit.
• Refrain from plucking or waxing – Plucking and waxing remove the hair follicle, so avoid these methods for 4-6 weeks pre-treatment. The follicle needs to be intact for the laser to disable it.
• Wash face but don’t apply products – Clean skin allows for maximum laser penetration, but avoid applying creams, moisturizers, or sunscreen beforehand.
• Trim longer hairs – Use clippers to trim any excessively long facial hairs to avoid any burning from exposed dark hair. Hair should not exceed a few millimeters.
• Take pain medication if desired – For those concerned about pain, taking an over-the-counter pain reliever 30-60 minutes prior can help reduce any discomfort during the procedure.
• Don’t tan – Having a suntan increases the risk of adverse skin reactions from laser. Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 4-6 weeks before starting.

Following your provider’s recommendations carefully before laser hair removal tends to yield the best experience and outcome.

What to Expect During Your Laser Facial Hair Removal Appointment

Once you have selected a qualified laser center and prepared your skin properly at home, here’s an overview of the actual laser treatment process:

1. Eye protection – You will be given special safety goggles for your eyes. The laser can damage your vision if the concentrated beam comes in contact with your eyes.
2. Device settings – The technician will first test different device settings on a small patch of skin to determine the optimal power level for your complexion. This helps prevent any risk of burns.
3. Area cleansing – The facial or neck areas being treated will be cleaned to remove any makeup, creams, or debris that could interfere with the laser.
4. Cooling – Your provider will cool the skin’s surface before and after each laser pulse. This can be done using a cold gel, chilled device tip, or cryogenic air cooling. Cooling protects the skin from excess heating.
5. Laser treatment – Guided by a handheld piece, the laser will be placed against your skin to deliver pulses of light to each area receiving treatment. Most patients describe the sensation as a light pinch or elastic band snapping against the skin. Each pulse lasts between 2 to 40 milliseconds. 
6. Soothing gel – A soothing gel is typically applied after each area has been lased. This prevents redness and irritation. The gel feels nice and cool against your treated skin.
7. Repeating – The laser technician will methodically move across each facial area, delivering pulses and applying gel until the full face has been covered in the session. Most full-face treatments take about 30-45 minutes.

The laser session is typically a quick, tolerable process with minimal discomfort. Your provider’s skill and experience combined with proper skin cooling makes the treatment easy to handle for most men.

How Many Laser Sessions Are Needed for Facial Hair Removal?

While the exact protocol varies by patient, on average it takes about 4 to 6 laser hair removal treatment sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart to see optimal facial hair reduction.

This is because your hair growth occurs in phases. The laser can only disable the follicles that are currently active and producing hair during each visit.

Follicles in the dormant phase will not be affected at that time but may enter the active growth stage at a later point. More than one laser session is needed to catch all the follicles when they are vulnerable.

During your consultation, your provider will assess your facial hair and advise how many treatments will likely be needed to meet your goals whether that’s a 50% reduction or 95% removal of facial hair.

Sticking to the schedule of sessions your laser technician recommends gives you the best chance of successful long-term hair removal on your face, neck, and beard area. 

How to Care for Skin After Laser Hair Removal on the Face

You want to nurture the treated facial areas properly after each laser session to aid the healing process and avoid complications. Follow these tips for aftercare:

With proper aftercare, any side effects like redness or sensitivity after laser facial hair removal generally subside within a day or so. Following your provider’s recommendations helps ensure the best results.

What Kind of Facial Hair Removal Results Can You Expect from Laser?

Once you complete your series of recommended laser hair removal treatments, what level of facial hair reduction can you expect to see?

• Most men enjoy about 70% to 90% permanent hair loss after 4-6 sessions. For some, this can mean just needing to shave once every week or two instead of daily.
• Others experience up to 95% hair removal, with complete elimination of hair on certain facial areas like the cheeks or sides of the face. Only occasional touch-up sessions may be needed in the future.

However, keep realistic expectations. Permanent hair “removal” is a bit of a misnomer. Laser hair removal provides significant and long-lasting hair reduction, but hormones can lead to some new growth recurring over time.

The degree of long-term reduction can vary substantially by individual. Some may see near-complete removal. But most men achieve enough reduction in beard hair, mustache, and neck hair to feel satisfied with the results.

For any stubborn remaining hairs after your initial package of treatments, single touch-up sessions can be booked as needed. This maintains smooth results.

Can Laser Permanently Damage Skin on the Face?

A common concern about removing facial hair with lasers is the potential for scarring or permanent damage to the skin. However, adverse effects are extremely unlikely with today’s advanced devices and when performed properly by an expert technician.

The newest generation of hair removal lasers delivers rapid pulses of light that disable hair follicles but spare most of the surrounding tissue.

Temporary side effects like redness, minor swelling, and sensitivity are common and resolve within a few days as the skin recovers. But permanent impacts on your appearance are not expected.

At your consultation, be sure to discuss your skin type and any concerns about laser facial treatments with your provider. Following all pre and post-treatment guidelines also optimizes safety.

With the right provider overseeing your care, laser can successfully remove unwanted facial hair without long-term damage. 

What is the Cost of Laser Hair Removal on Men’s Faces?

The investment for laser hair removal treatments on your face can vary based on factors such as:

• Number of areas treated – Larger treatment zones like full face and neck together cost more than smaller spots like the upper lip alone.
• Number of sessions recommended – Plans with the 5-6 sessions needed for optimal results have a higher overall cost than packages with fewer.
• Treatment center or clinic size – A major dermatology center often costs more than a small med spa. But the expertise is worth it!
• Geographic location – Laser hair removal in metro areas like Los Angeles or New York City tends to be priced higher than in other regions.
• Experience of technicians – You’ll pay a premium for a clinic with highly trained, skilled laser specialists with years of experience. Yet this can save money and discomfort in the long run versus choosing a provider with lesser skills just because the cost is lower.

To give you a general idea,  below are the usual price ranges depending on area size, cumulative costs, and a full-face treatment.

Full face and neck treatments are more costly than just a beard, mustache, or partial area of the face. But you maximize results by treating all regions of concern in a single session.

Can Laser Hair Removal Be Covered by Insurance?

Because laser hair removal is considered an elective cosmetic treatment, it is generally not covered by health insurance plans. However, there are some exceptions where insurance may provide partial coverage:

1. Medically-necessary treatment – If you suffer from a condition like pseudofolliculitis barbae that is impacted by shaving, insurance may cover some laser hair removal costs when medically warranted. Preauthorization is required.
2. Hormone-related excess hair growth – For conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome or hirsutism causing abnormal facial hair growth in women, insurance may pay for laser if it’s medically needed.
3. Transgender procedures – Transition-related care like laser hair removal or electrolysis may be covered by more progressive plans. Verify coverage specifics.
4. Clinical trials – Ongoing studies through university programs may offer free or reduced-cost laser hair removal in exchange for participation.

If one of the above extenuating circumstances applies to you, consult with both your doctor and insurance provider to find out if any coverage is available. Have your physician provide documentation showing medical necessity.

For the majority of men seeking laser hair removal for cosmetic reasons, the treatments will need to be paid out-of-pocket. But rest assured the investment pays for itself through the money and time saved on shaving products, countless razor blades, and other tedious grooming over your lifetime.

Looking youthful and well-groomed with less facial hair maintenance is invaluable for career and relationships. Considering the confidence boost smooth skin provides, most men find the payment worthwhile.

Payment plans through reputable laser clinics allow you to divide costs into interest-free monthly installments. Bundled discounted packages for multiple sessions also help lower the price per treatment. Just be sure to avoid steeply discounted deals on group sites, as quality may be questionable.

How Does Laser Stack Up to Electrolysis for Facial Hair Removal?

Besides shaving, two of the most popular options for getting rid of facial hair are laser and electrolysis. Both provide permanent hair reduction when performed correctly. But there are some key differences between these two methods:

For dark, coarse hair like that found in most men’s beards and mustaches, laser hair removal provides the quickest, most comfortable option for lasting reduction. However, electrolysis does offer a greater ability to target fair hair.

Your laser clinic can advise if you are a better candidate for laser or electrolysis facial hair removal based on your unique hair color, skin tone, pain tolerance, and goals for treatment.

Why Choose Ethos Spa Laser Center for Your Facial Hair Removal?

When it comes to something as visible as your face, you want to entrust it only to laser specialists with impeccable credentials. This is what we offer here at Ethos Spa.

With over a decade of experience providing laser hair removal to men seeking facial rejuvenation, we are leaders in male aesthetic treatments.

Our team of nurses and technicians works under the supervision of board-certified dermatologists. They provide medical oversight to ensure your safety and optimal outcomes. 

We always tailor the laser experience to each man’s needs for smoother skin on their face, neck, beard, and other areas.

Get the Well-Groomed Look You Want Without the Hassle of Shaving!

Are you ready to say goodbye to razor burn, stubble, and ingrown hairs? Discover how we can help you achieve permanently smooth skin on your face. 

Our specialists look forward to creating a customized laser hair removal plan designed to meet your masculine grooming goals. Invest in yourself today – your confidence is worth it!

Schedule an appointment now!