Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses laser light – an intense, pulsating beam of light – to remove unwanted hair. For men, laser hair removal is a popular solution for excessive hair on the back, chest, neck, and abdomen. It is also used to remove unwanted hair from other parts of the body.

Men who have light skin and dark coarse hair and are looking to remove unwanted hair are good candidates for laser hair removal.

Though newer laser hair removal technologies are becoming better at removing hair on those with lighter hair or deeper skin tones, people with dark skin or blonde, red, or gray hair may not get the best results.

Before getting laser hair removal, you will need to have a consultation with your doctor. During the consultation, your doctor will evaluate your general health status, and determine whether the procedure is likely to work well for you.

The procedure will be described in detail, including risks and limitations. Photographs may be taken for before and after comparisons.

During your consultation, the doctor will answer any questions you might have, so come to your appointment prepared.

Before the procedure, you will be given goggles to wear to prevent accidental exposure of your eyes to laser light. During the procedure, a hand-held laser instrument is pressed to your skin. Depending on the type of laser, a cooling device on the tip of the laser or a cool gel is used to protect the skin. You may feel a slight stinging sensation.

When the laser is activated, the laser light passes through your skin's surface to hair follicles where hair growth originates. The intense heat damages the hair follicle, which inhibits hair growth. It takes several treatments to provide an extended period with no re-growth.

During laser hair removal recovery, you may have some redness and swelling for the first few hours and stinging for the first 24 to 48 hours. Some people experience a slight crusting of the skin. If crusting occurs, keep the area moist with petroleum jelly (Vaseline).

Most people are able to return to work the same day as the procedure. It is best to avoid sun exposure unless you are adequately protected.

Although laser hair removal is relatively safe, all procedures come with some risk. Potential laser hair removal risks may include:

• Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation)
• Lightening of the skin (hypopigmentation)
• Blistering and scarring
• Changes in the skin texture
• Crusting or scabbing
• Changes in hair color or texture

Laser hair removal costs vary based on a number of factors including:

• Area to be treated
• Geographic location
• Facility
• Doctor expertise and demand

Cost ranges for 1 treatment are provided below:

• Back                      $600 to $900
• Chest                     $350 to $600
• Face & Neck         $600 to $900
• Abdomen               $350 to $600
• Lower Legs            $600 to $850
• Upper Legs            $600 to $850
• Arms                     $350 to $500

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Hair Removal Journal

4 Laser Hair Removal