Shaving, Waxing, Electrolysis or Lasers?
Pubic hair removal for men is a booming industry. More and more, men are seeking effective hair removal techniques for the pubic region. Like women, there are several options to choose from: electrolysis, waxing, laser, and shaving. Below is an explanation of each method, and ideal candidates for each. Treatments are listed in order of effectiveness.
Pubic Hair Removal Option #1: Electrolysis
Electrolysis is the only form of permanent hair removal approved by the FDA and AMA. With over 125 years of proven results, it is the ideal choice for men interested in permanent pubic hair removal.
Electrolysis does have its drawbacks. Firstly, it can take several months – even years – for complete hair removal. Results are not seen until the second or third month of treatment (assuming 1 – 3 treatments per month). Expect at least a year for permanent pubic hair removal.
Compared to laser hair removal, electrolysis is quite slow. It can take anywhere from 30 – 60 to treat the pubic area (opposed to 10 – 15 minutes for lasers).
Cost is another concern. Electrolysis treatments cost between $60 – $90 per hour, though prices vary by location, technician’s experience and thickness of the patient’s hair. It is possible to negotiate with electrologists, especially if you pay up front or request other hair removal services. Visit http://www.electrology.com for a list of certified electrologists in your area.
Pubic Hair Removal Option #2: Laser Treatment
Laser treatment for removing pubic hair is becoming more popular. Lasers offer several advantages over electrolysis: faster treatment time, less overall treatments, and (sometimes) permanent results. Disadvantages include increased cost and no guarantee of effectiveness (7 – 10% of the population do not respond to laser treatment). Plus, laser treatment only works on dark colored hair; if you have blond, gray, white or red pubic hair, laser treatment will not work for you.
On average, patients require 3 – 6 laser treatments to remove pubic hair. While some report permanent hair removal, lasers are FDA approved for the term “permanent hair reduction”. Regrowth may take six months or more appear; if regrowth appears, it is generally softer and finer (similar to repeated waxings). The average cost of laser hair removal for pubic hair varies between $400 – $500 per treatment. Speak with a technician for an accurate quote; numbers vary widely depending upon pricing model (hourly, flat fee, etc.), thickness of pubic hair and size of the treated area.
A main benefit to laser treatment for pubic hair is the ability to thin – rather than remove – pubic hair. Many men prefer to trim their pubic region, instead of removing all hair.
Pubic Hair Removal Option #3: Waxing
Perhaps the most popular – and misunderstood – pubic hair removal method is waxing. Unlike laser treatment or electrolysis, waxing removes all pubic hair in one treatment. This alone makes waxing an attractive option for those looking for quick results. After one waxing treatment – usually around $50 in salons – pubic hair is removed, and regrowth occurs 4 – 6 weeks after treatment. If looking for a seasonal method for removing pubic hair, waxing is the most cost-effective way to go.
Known as “bikini waxing” for women, this method is commonly referred to as a “Manzillian” for men. While effective along the mons pubis region – just below the navel – waxing can be painful along the genital area, especially the scrotum.
Waxing pubic hair utilizes two forms of wax: hard wax and hot strip wax. Strip wax is used everywhere except on the scrotum and (possibly) around the penis. Hard wax – which causes less discomfort – is used on more sensitive areas.
Pubic Hair Removal Option #4: Trimming or Shaving
Trimming pubic hair is fast, effective and can be done in the comfort of your own home. Using a pubic hair trimmer such as the BodyGroomer, men can select five length settings, from 1/8 inch to 11/25 inch.
Pubic hair trimmers are very cost-effective: a home trimmer/shaver costs the same as one waxing at a salon (roughly $40 – $50) and can last for years. Plus, trimmers can be used on any body parts, increasing the lifetime value of the product.
Shaving genitals can be painful if done incorrectly. Small cuts, razor burn and bleeding are common signs of poor shvaing. Before trying it, read our guide to shaving pubic hair for men.
Results for this method do not last long. Stubble appears 1 – 2 days after shaving; full regrowth takes 4 – 6 weeks.
Read about the best trimmer for pubic hair.
