Laser razor puts an end to the most time-wasting chore men face

Ben Stroud, a Reuters trader, is seeking an end to the daily shaving that consumes hundreds of hours in the lives of most men, writes Jeremy Laurance. Yesterday he started laser treatment on his face at the Harley Medical Group's City clinic which will permanently remove his facial hair. Pulses of laser light are beamed at the face. The light passes through the skin and is absorbed by the melanin in the hair and hair root, causing it to burn. Patients report only a mild stinging.

Eight 15-minute sessions are required for men with normal beards over six months. It should clear at least 70 per cent of the hair so subsequent shaving is easier and less frequent.

However, it costs pounds 1,600 - enough to buy at least 30 years' worth of razor blades.

Leading article, page 20

Photograph: Adrian Dennis