When shaving your beard and facial hair, you may experience skin irritation such as pimples, redness, and bacterial folliculitis. Therefore, it is crucial to learn how to shave properly and effectively, just as a dermatologist would advise. Following specific steps when shaving is essential.
The first step is the preparation
Firstly, it is important to wet your facial hair by applying water to it. This will help to smooth out the strands of hair and make it easier to shave.
Next, you should cleanse your face. It is recommended to use a cleanser to remove any residue from skincare products, sunscreen, and bacteria. This will prevent your pores from becoming clogged after shaving.
The second step is choosing a shaving gel or cream
For a more soothing and effective shaving experience, it’s best to choose a product with simple and gentle ingredients. While some shaving creams and gels may claim to be “soothing,” they often contain irritants like menthol, denatured alcohol, peppermint oil, and fragrances. These ingredients may create a temporary cooling sensation on the skin, but they can worsen redness and increase the likelihood of breakouts. To truly soothe and protect your skin, look for products that are fragrance-free and free of harsh alcohols and menthol.
Opt for shaving gels and creams that contain aloe vera or nourishing vitamins. Your skin will thank you!
The third step is choosing a razor
Choosing the right razor is crucial for a good shaving experience. The razor you use affects the quality of your shave, which is tied to your skin type and the avoidance of irritation and breakouts.
Non-electric razors with more blades give a closer shave but can cause more irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin. It’s best to use razors with 1-2 blades to avoid irritation. Remember to replace your razor blades regularly, at least once a month, to prevent bacteria build-up and bluntness, which can cause more irritation. Keep your razor dry and clean to avoid rusting and harbouring more bacteria. Alternatively, you can use an electrical razor, but remember to change the razor head often, clean it after shaving, and keep it dry. With an electric razor, you can skip shaving cream or gel and use only water for preparation.
The next step is the mechanics of shaving.
When it comes to shaving, it’s best to go with the grain, which means shaving in the direction of hair growth. Shaving against the grain might give you a closer shave, but it can also lead to more irritation. If you’re not satisfied with the results after shaving with the grain, you can try going against the grain with quick, short movements of the razor. However, be cautious as there is a risk of cutting yourself. If you’re using an electric razor, the direction doesn’t matter.
The last step is aftercare.
To prevent irritation and ingrown hairs, it’s important to focus on using the right product. While some after-shave products claim to remove debris and avoid infections, they often contain drying alcohols and fragrances that can irritate – especially if you have sensitive skin.
Instead, we recommend using a facial cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to remove debris, oil, and bacteria. Salicylic acid helps to exfoliate and prevent clogged pores, while benzoyl peroxide effectively kills acne-causing bacteria. Finish with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer that contains antioxidants to replenish and calm the skin. Niacinamide is a recommended ingredient in a moisturizer, like our Daily moisturizer.
