3 Things You Need to Change About Your Shave routine
Have you ever wondered why you always end up with super dry skin after shaving? Or why razor burns and bumps seem to be a regular side effect of leg or bikini line shaving? Maybe you wish you could find the right shaving products or techniques to make these issues go away -- so you can enjoy a smooth, irritation-free shave, every time.
You could be making one or more of the three common shaving mistakes. And if you're making at least one of these mistakes, you're instantly setting yourself up for dryness, irritation, and potentially even ingrown hairs.
Here are the three things you need to change about your shave routine if you want to secure a seamless shave, continuously.
Frequency of Changing Your Razor
Let's get one thing straight. If you cannot remember the last time you switched out your razor, that's a sign it was way too long ago. That said, you don't have to abide by the common belief that razors need to be replaced after two to three uses. Besides being incorrect, it's also extremely wallet-unfriendly.
According to dermatologists, the optimum time to replace your razor is after three to five uses, or if you see signs of rusting or tugging the hair. It's hard to say an exact timeframe because there are multiple factors that can impact a razor's effectiveness, such as how often a woman shaves, how coarse her hair is, how the razor is stored, and so forth.
If you're shaving daily or your hair is on the thicker end of the spectrum, it will cause your blade to dull at a faster rate.
However, it's important to not to wait too long before switching out your razor. If you continuously use the same old razor time and time again, it won't cut hair as sharply as it once did, leaving you prone to nicks, bumps, and ingrowns.
As a rule of thumb, keep an eye on how your razor looks after each use. Does it still work well? Are the blades still looking shiny and sharp?
If you are prone to ingrown hairs, razor bumps, or skin irritation post-shave, it might be time to start changing your razor blade more frequently.
Direction of Shaving
Which way do you go when you shave your face, underarms, bikini area, or legs? The direction in which you shave plays a huge role in the end result.
For best results, always shave in the direction of hair growth on the areas where your skin is more sensitive -- like your bikini line. And shave against the grain to achieve a closer shave on your legs.
Shaving against the grain always increases your risk of irritation and bumps, but it does give you a closer shave. That said, the derms advise against it in sensitive regions. You can get away with it on your legs since the skin there isn't as sensitive.
Once you start shaving in the right direction, you'll immediately notice a difference in the feel and appearance of your skin.
Shaving with Extra Hot Water
Washing and shaving with warm water is okay. Washing and shaving with hot, hot water however? Not so much!
When you shower or shave in extra hot water, it dries out the skin which can compromise skin barrier function.
"Think of the skin as a protective wall that prevents things in the environment from making their way inside (chemicals, toxins, and pollution) as well as keeps what should stay inside from escaping (moisture and hydration)," says Texas-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Flora Kim.
She adds, "When your skin is dry, this skin-barrier function (aka your skin’s ability to protect itself) is compromised, potentially leading to increased sensitivity and heightened vulnerability to irritation."
Alongside this, hot water strips the skin of natural oils, which can make skin appear dry, red, and wrinkles more apparent.
That doesn't mean you need to shave in cold water, but turning down your water temperature a little can make a huge difference to your skin's overall health.
BEST SHAVING PRODUCTS TO TRY
Whether you're moving facial hair or body hair, every good shave starts with good products and a great technique. Here are the best shaving products to secure a smooth shave.
No Troubles Bubbles Shaving Cream
This moisture-rich shaving cream is capable of fighting off skincare code reds thanks to its blend of hydrating hyaluronic acid, soothing blue tansy, and nourishing marula oil. Whether it's your first time or you're a seasoned shaver, this'll definitely be one of your better shaves. After creating a lather with the shave cream, slather it all over desired areas, and begin the hair removal process.
What’s Up, Buttercup? After Shave Butter
Formulated with avocado, kiwi, and hyaluronic acid, this aftershave butter is like a lotion but with a buttery texture -- and 10 times more moisturizing! Apply it after shaving to nourish and condition your skin for a soft to the touch finish.
Super Fierce Pre-Shave Serum
If you're seeking a super close shave on the go, reach for our Pre-Shave Serum. It is made with nourishing marula oil and anti-inflammatory squalene to help hydrate, soften hair follicles, and secure a smooth razor glide sans irritation. This pre-shave oil can be applied before showering and exfoliating to soften hair follicles, hydrate the skin, and soothe sensitive skin.
The PowerPuff Girls Razor
Throw out that disposable razor and those dull blades, and bring in our Super Shaver Razor. This five-bladed flex-grip razor features an extra cushy gel bar for a silky smooth shave and glide.
Pimple Power Pack
A limited edition take on our bestselling body acne patches, which are perfect for targeting blemishes, acne scars, or shaving nicks. Apply one whenever a blemish pops up!
Shaving does require good products and technique. If you're making any of the three mistakes above, it's time to make the change and start enjoying a smoother, silkier, irritation-free shave. Sound good? Upgrade your shaving routine today!
