Shaving is a part of our daily routine, but most people don’t know how to do it correctly. Improper shaving technique can cause irritation, razor burns, and ingrown hairs.
In this article, we will discuss 30 common shaving mistakes that damage your skin.
1. Not Preparing Your Skin
If you don’t prepare your skin before shaving, it can cause irritation and razor burns. Use warm water to open up your pores and soften your hair follicles. You can also use a pre-shave oil or cream to prepare your skin.
2. Using a Dull Razor
A dull razor can cause cuts and irritation. Always use a sharp razor to get a clean and close shave.
3. Shaving Against the Grain
Shaving against the grain can cause irritation and ingrown hairs. Always shave in the direction of hair growth to prevent these problems.
4. Not Using Shaving Cream
Shaving without cream or foam can cause razor burns and cuts. Use shaving cream or a shaving gel to lubricate your skin and prevent irritation.
5. Using Hot Water
Using hot water can dry out your skin and make it more susceptible to irritation. Use warm water instead to soften your skin and hair follicles.
6. Not Rinsing Your Razor
Not rinsing your razor can cause bacteria to build up and cause infection. Rinse your razor between each stroke to prevent this problem.
7. Applying Too Much Pressure
Applying too much pressure can cause cuts and irritation. Use a light touch when shaving to prevent these problems.
8. Not Exfoliating
Not exfoliating can cause ingrown hairs and irritation. Use a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs.
9. Shaving Too Often
Shaving too often can cause irritation and razor burns. Give your skin a break and shave every other day or every three days.
10. Using Alcohol-based Products
Alcohol-based products can dry out your skin and cause irritation. Use a moisturizing lotion or balm instead to soothe your skin.
11. Not Using Aftershave
Not using aftershave can cause irritation and razor burns. Use an aftershave lotion or balm to soothe your skin and prevent these problems.
12. Not Changing Your Razor
Using an old and worn-out razor can cause irritation and cuts. Change your razor after 5-7 uses or when you notice it becoming dull.
13. Shaving Too Quickly
Shaving too quickly can cause cuts and irritation. Take your time and shave slowly to get a clean and close shave.
14. Not Using a Moisturizer
Not using a moisturizer can cause dry skin and irritation. Use a moisturizing lotion or balm to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
15. Not Trimming Your Hair
If your hair is too long, it can cause tugging and pulling during shaving. Use a trimmer to trim your hair before shaving.
16. Shaving Dry
Shaving without water, cream, or gel can cause irritation and cuts. Always shave with a lubricant to prevent these problems.
17. Not Cleaning Your Razor
Not cleaning your razor can cause bacteria to build up and cause infection. Clean your razor with rubbing alcohol after each use to prevent this problem.
18. Shaving Too Close to Your Skin
Shaving too close to your skin can cause cuts and irritation. Leave a little bit of stubble to prevent these problems.
19. Not Applying Enough Shaving Cream
Not applying enough shaving cream can cause razor burns and cuts. Apply a thick layer of shaving cream or foam to prevent these problems.
20. Not Shaving Along the Contours of Your Face
Not shaving along the contours of your face can cause cuts and irritation. Shave in the direction of your facial hair to prevent these problems.
21. Not Using a High-Quality Razor
Using a low-quality razor can cause irritation and cuts. Invest in a high-quality razor to get a clean and close shave.
22. Shaving Your Neck Area Too Much
Shaving your neck area too much can cause irritation and razor burns. Use a light touch when shaving this area to prevent these problems.
23. Not Using a Shaving Brush
Using a shaving brush can help create a lather and lift your hair follicles for a closer shave. Use a shaving brush with your shaving cream or gel.
24. Shaving Your Legs Too Often
Shaving your legs too often can cause irritation and razor burns. Give your skin a break and shave every other day or every three days.
25. Not Washing Your Skin Before Shaving
Not washing your skin before shaving can cause bacteria to build up and cause infection. Use a gentle cleanser to wash your skin before shaving.
26. Not Rinsing Your Skin with Cold Water
Rinsing your skin with cold water can help close your pores and prevent inflammation. Rinse your skin with cold water after shaving to prevent irritation.
27. Not Using a Post-Shave Lotion
Not using a post-shave lotion can cause dry skin and irritation. Use a gentle lotion or balm to soothe your skin after shaving.
28. Shaving Too Quickly in the Shower
Shaving too quickly in the shower can cause cuts and irritation. Take your time and shave slowly to get a clean and close shave.
29. Using Soap as Shaving Cream
Using soap as shaving cream can dry out your skin and cause irritation. Always use a shaving cream or gel to lubricate your skin and prevent these problems.
30. Not Moisturizing Enough After Shaving
Not moisturizing enough after shaving can cause dry skin and irritation. Use a moisturizing lotion or balm to keep your skin hydrated and healthy after shaving.
Conclusion
By avoiding these common shaving mistakes, you can prevent irritation, razor burns, and ingrown hairs. Follow these tips and enjoy a smooth and healthy skin.