5 Reasons Why Men Remove Body Hair

In recent years, hair removal for men has become popular among males of all ages. While body hair removal has been a staple in women’s grooming routines for decades, men are now embracing this practice for various reasons. 

From improved athletic performance to personal preference, there are several compelling arguments for why men should consider removing body hair. This article will explore the science behind these reasons, making the case for a smoother, hair-free lifestyle.

1. Improve Athletic Performance

According to research, removing body hair can improve athletic performance by reducing drag and wind resistance. When body hair is removed, it reduces the friction between the skin and clothing, resulting in a more streamlined and aerodynamic body. This is particularly beneficial for swimmers, cyclists, and runners.

Swimmers have made removing body hair a routine practice to reduce drag in the water. According to the Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, swimmers experienced a 7% reduction in passive drag when body hair was removed. The study concluded that shaving body hair significantly improved the athletes’ performance by reducing the resistance they encountered while swimming.

Additionally, cyclists and runners can also benefit from body hair removal for men and women, too. For cyclists, even a small reduction in wind resistance can lead to significant gains in speed and performance. As for runners, the reduced friction between the skin and clothing can minimise chafing and discomfort during long-distance races.

Read: 5 Reasons Why Laser Hair Removal Is Beneficial To Athletes

2. Reduced Body Odour

Body hair traps sweat and bacteria, leading to body odour. Men generally have more body hair than women, which means they are more susceptible to odour-causing bacteria. Getting rid of excessive hair decreases the surface area available for bacterial growth, subsequently decreasing the likelihood of developing unpleasant body smell.

In fact, a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that participants who shaved their underarms experienced a significant reduction in odour-causing bacteria. The researchers concluded that body hair removal for men could be a viable option for those who are looking for solutions to this problem.

3. Improved Hygiene

Men and women alike can benefit from hair removal as it improves hygiene by reducing the likelihood of bacterial and fungal infections. Hair traps moisture, which can create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Thus, removing hair in areas prone to these infections, such as the feet and groin, can reduce the likelihood of contracting ailments like athlete’s foot and jock itch.

In addition to reducing the risk of infection, removing body hair can also make it easier to maintain good hygiene practices. For instance, hair removal can facilitate the even application of sunscreen, making it more effective in protecting the skin from harmful UV rays.

4. Increased Physical Appeal

Men who remove body hair are perceived as more attractive by some people. This is particularly true for chest and back hair, as excessive hair can be a turn-off for some people. According to a survey conducted by Men’s Health magazine, many women prefer men who have a well-groomed appearance, including removing excess body hair. 

It’s important to note that attractiveness is subjective, and preferences may vary across cultures and individuals. 

Read: Top Laser Hair Removal Procedure for Men’s Faces

5. Personal Preference

Ultimately, whether or not to remove body hair is a personal preference, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. Some men prefer to keep their body hair, while others prefer a smooth, hairless appearance. There is no right or wrong choice, and it’s up to each individual to decide what makes them feel most comfortable and confident.

For some, the benefits of removing body hair, such as improved athletic performance and hygiene, may outweigh the time and effort involved in maintaining a hair-free body. Others may choose to remove hair selectively, targeting specific areas like the chest, back, or groin. Additionally, some men may opt for temporary hair removal methods, such as shaving or waxing, while others may prefer more permanent solutions like laser hair removal or electrolysis.

When deciding whether or not to remove body hair, it’s essential to consider factors such as personal comfort, lifestyle, and the potential benefits and drawbacks. Men should also take into account their skin type and hair growth patterns, as some hair removal methods may not be suitable for all individuals.

Read: Laser Hair Removal for Men: Your 12 Burning Questions, Answered!

Laser Hair Removal For Men

Utilising medical-grade lasers, professional hair removal is a non-invasive treatment that permanently reduces unwanted hair. These high-quality lasers emit concentrated light energy, which is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle, ultimately damaging it and inhibiting future hair growth. 

This method is suitable for various body areas and is increasingly popular among men seeking long-lasting, effective hair reduction solutions. It is effective for different hair and skin treatments, and works on most types of hair and complexion, particularly Asians and those with darker colouring.

The entire laser hair removal usually needs 6 to 10 sessions, and has been observed to deliver results much faster, with a higher level of satisfaction among patients. However, it is only prudent to mention that laser treatments may give a certain degree of discomfort, depending on the person. 

Comparative Table: Laser Hair Removal vs  Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Method

Read: IPL and Laser for Hair Removal: What’s the Difference?

The Takeaway

For those who decide to embark on the journey of body hair removal, it’s crucial to research and choose the most appropriate method for their needs and preferences. With the right approach, men can enjoy the benefits of a smooth, hair-free body, improving their overall well-being and confidence.

Here at The Aesthetics Centre, we prefer the GentleMax Pro™ by Candela™, which has been widely used in the industry for 20 years now. It’s a dual-platform laser that delivers a 755nm Alexandrite laser and 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser. 

If you wish to know more about laser hair removal for men, our team of trained professionals will assist you with your inquiries about our cosmetic procedures. Call +65 6820 3308 or +65 6820 3309 for more information or book an appointment with Dr Anita Soosay today!