#Japan #Tokyo #Hair Removal #men's grooming #i-Skin

The Rising Trend of Self-Hair Removal Among Men

In contemporary society, grooming has evolved into a crucial aspect for many men, especially those in their 20s to 40s. A recent survey conducted by i-Skin Co., Ltd., a company operating an unmanned self-hair removal salon based in Tokyo, has shed light on the self-hair care practices and preferences of this demographic. The findings indicate a significant inclination towards utilizing hair removal salons or medical hair removal clinics, with roughly half of the respondents expressing interest in such services.

Background of the Survey

Over the past few years, the beauty industry, particularly focusing on hair removal services, has witnessed a turbulent phase marked by the bankruptcies of several salons and clinics. Instances of service interruptions and unreturned advance payments have raised concerns among potential clients. Moreover, a significant bankruptcy report from a major medical hair removal clinic in 2024 altered public perceptions, leading many to question the supposed safety of medical services. Nonetheless, interest in hair removal continues to rise alongside advancements in self-care products. As a result, the decision-making process for those considering hair removal services has become more complex.

To understand this evolving landscape, i-Skin has conducted a survey targeting men aged 20 to 40 who engage in self-hair care, focusing on their intentions regarding future usage of hair removal services and the factors they prioritize when choosing a service provider.

Survey Overview

The survey, conducted from July 16 to July 18, 2025, via an online questionnaire, resulted in responses from 329 men aged 20 to 40 who actively self-manage their body hair removal. Some key findings emerged from the survey:

Self-Care Tools Employed by Men

Respondents were asked what tools they primarily utilize for their self-hair removal. The results indicated that the most commonly used tools are:
1. Razor: 66.3%
2. Electric Shaver: 49.5%
3. Tweezers: 36.2%

These results reinforce the notion that razors and electric shavers are the mainstays for men engaged in self-hair care, reflecting a preference for traditional shaving methods.

Future Intentions for Professional Services

When queried about future intentions to utilize hair removal salons or clinics, the responses were as follows:

• - No Plans to Use: 50.8%
• - Considering Use: 46.8%
• - Already Decided to Use: 2.4%

Combining the last two categories reveals that about half of the respondents (approximately 49.2%) are open to or interested in professional services, suggesting a growing trend toward seeking expert help.

Preference for Medical Hair Removal Clinics

Among those who have decided to use professional services, the most preferred option is medical hair removal clinics, with 50.0% indicating this choice. Following closely are:

• - Staff-Facilitated Hair Removal Salons: 25.0%
• - Self-Service Hair Removal Salons: 25.0%

This highlights a clear preference for medical clinics, which might be attributed to perceived effectiveness and reliability.

Considerations for Choosing Service Providers

For those open to utilizing professional services, the top criteria for selection were:
1. Effectiveness of Treatments: 22.9%
2. Convenience (Location & Hours): 19.1%
3. Reviews and Reputation: 19.1%

These factors underline the significance of service quality and accessibility in the decision-making process for potential clients.

Barriers to Choosing Professional Services

Conversely, when assessing why some individuals do not plan to use hair removal salons or clinics, the primary reason was:

• - High Costs: 73.1%
• - Convenience Issues: 42.5%
• - Satisfaction with Self-Care: 34.1%

The high cost of professional services remains the most significant barrier to access, suggesting a need for affordable options in the market.

Conclusion

This survey has illuminated a trend among men aged 20 to 40 regarding their self-hair care practices and attitudes toward professional services. It indicates a significant portion of this demographic is amenable to opting for hair removal salons or clinics, driven largely by effectiveness and convenience.

Interestingly, the price point remains a barrier for many, suggesting an opportunity for lower-cost services. i-Skin's unmanned self-hair removal concept, which offers unlimited access at reasonable prices, caters perfectly to this demand. Utilizing the latest HIPL hair removal technology, i-Skin accommodates various hair and skin types, ensuring an inclusive approach to self-hair care.

In summary, the survey underscores that as men’s grooming trends evolve, the service providers who can offer effective, convenient, and affordable solutions will likely capture a significant share of the market.