Lasers in aesthetic medicine for men: indications and special features
Dr Véronique Emmenegger
The evolution of aesthetic medicine has gone hand-in-hand with the gradual increase in male patients. There is now a well-established aesthetic demand among men, with precise expectations in terms of visible, natural-looking and discreet results with non-invasive treatments. The use of lasers perfectly ties in with this dynamic.
Nevertheless, male patients have distinct clinical characteristics (skin structure, hairiness, social tolerance to downtime after treatment, expectations in terms of comfort and performance) which require us to adapt the therapeutic protocols.
Treating scars
Scars are a common reason that men seek aesthetic treatment. Non-ablative fractional lasers are often indicated because of the specific features of male skin (thicker skin, hairiness, collagen density). They allow for targeted dermal stimulation with a shorter recovery time. The aim is to achieve a gradual improvement to the skin texture and a more even complexion, with minimal impact to their social and professional life.
Laser tattoo removal
Laser tattoo removal is on the rise in men, whether for personal, professional or social reasons. Due to the gradual change in masculine aesthetic norms, some men now want to adopt a more refined appearance. Lasers break down the intradermal pigment particles, making it easier for the body to eliminate them via the macrophages.
Laser hair removal
Far from a cliché, laser hair removal is now a popular treatment among men, whether for hygiene, comfort or aesthetic reasons. The most common request is to reduce the density of the hair to reshape certain areas. At the Clinic Lémanic, we also offer this method for functional reasons: chronic folliculitis, ingrowing hairs or excessive sweating connected with dense hair growth. It allows for a gradual and long-lasting reduction in hair coverage.
Men’s body hair is thicker and more deeply implanted than women’s, so the protocols may require a higher number of sessions, and the settings can be adapted according to the skin tolerance.
Laser therapy for hair loss
Hair loss is a significant concern for men. Laser therapies are a useful, non-invasive treatment for reversing the hair loss process. These devices boost scalp vascularisation and cell metabolism. When carried out regularly, this stimulation can slow down hair loss and boost hair density. At the end of the session, we apply a personalised active to optimise the effects of the stimulation caused by the micro-openings created by the laser. This method is an excellent alternative to mesotherapy, and is particularly favoured by patients who are afraid of needles.
Laser body reshaping
Laser-assisted body reshaping is becoming more popular with men, namely for treating fat stores that are resistant to physical exercise. The Emerald laser, offered at the Clinic Lémanic, offers all the advantages of a pain-free treatment with no inflammation or recovery period. It is most often included in a comprehensive treatment programme, and attracts male patients who seek gentler alternatives to surgery that are still highly effective.
In conclusion, using lasers in men’s aesthetic medicine ties in with the major clinical and societal evolutions. The physiology of these types of patients requires us to adapt the settings and therapeutic strategies. Versatile, effective and safe, lasers are a key tool used for treating male patients.
Dr Véronique Emmenegger
Doctor of Medicine. Double qualification as a specialist FMH (Switzerland) in dermatology, venereology, allergology and clinical immunology. In 1998, she co-founded Clinic Lémanic in Lausanne, Switzerland, dedicated to anti-aging medicine and the health and beauty of the skin. She has been its medical director for over 25 years. She has won several international awards, including the IIPP Prize for Merit in the Development of Medical and Aesthetic Technologies at UNESCO in Paris, and the Prize for the Best Clinic in Anti-Aging and Preventive Medicine awarded in Monaco in 2023.
More informations: cliniclemanic.ch
