Hair Removal for Men
Question
Is it permitted for a man to undergo laser hair removal (such as on the beard or neck)?
Answer
Shalom uVracha,
The rulings of HaGaon Rav Amrom Fried shlit”a regarding hair removal for men:
Underarm and pubic hair:
Ideally, one should be stringent and not trim these areas at all (following the view of the Rashba).
However, according to the basic halachah, it is permitted to trim them with regular scissors, as long as a noticeable amount of hair remains (following the view of the Shulchan Aruch).
Other body hair:
It is permitted to shave with scissors in a way that produces a razor-like result (i.e., similar to an approved electric shaver).
However, removing hair with wax or laser is prohibited.
Facial hair:
Any facial hair that is not part of the halachic pe’at harosh (sideburn area) — ideally (Lechatchillah), one should be stringent and avoid removing it with wax or laser.
However, from a strict halachic standpoint, it is not prohibited.