Let’s face it: everyone is obsessed with having clear, smooth skin. People have been on a never-ending quest to get a healthy complexion. To address people’s woes, skincare companies have looked into different ways to resolve a range of skin problems and make skincare products for different skin types.
People rely on skincare products to experience immediate and effective results. Others visit waxing salons and facial centers to get beautified and pampered by the experts. On the other hand, those looking for budget-friendly solutions rely on DIY techniques to get the same level of pampering for less money.
If we’re talking about DIY skincare tricks, shaving will definitely top the list. Most women rely on razor shaving to get rid of body hair in just a few minutes. While many of us have been shaving body hair for a long time, it doesn’t mean you’re already a pro at it. Cuts, nicks, burns, and ingrown hairs are common, no matter how good you are with the razor.
Shaving can be a challenge whether you’re a man or a woman. To ensure smooth and bump-free skin, here are common shaving mistakes you should avoid and how to fix them.
Mistake #1: Shaving in the opposite direction
While shaving in the opposite direction helps get a closer shave, this approach leads to more pain. Also, shaving in different directions increases the risks of irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor bumps.
Experts say that you should shave according to the direction of hair growth, not against it. Going against the grain tug pulls the hair away from the skin before cutting it off, which leads to increased skin irritation.
For a safer shave, shave according to the direction your hair grows. If you’re prone to ingrown hair or razor burns, apply a serum or gel before shaving.
Mistake #2: Skipping the shaving cream or gel
Ever notice why men never shave without shaving cream? That’s because shaving prep is important to avoid the dreaded cuts and irritation.
Dry shaving can save lots of time, but it always leads to little red bumps that almost won’t go away. Shaving creams or gels are designed to help the razor glide smoothly across the skin without pulling or tugging the hairs. Without them, your skin will suffer from irritation, itchiness, skin damage, cuts, and razor burns.
Look for shaving creams or gels that contain natural ingredients such as vitamin E, olive butter, or aloe vera. This allows the razor to glide gently over your skin.
If you’re really in a hurry, it’s best to use water than nothing at all. Another alternative is to apply a hair conditioner or body soap along the skin before shaving to reduce friction and prevent injury. This reduces the risk of irritation that might occur after dry shaving.
Mistake #3: Forgetting to moisturize after shaving
After shaving your body hair, the process won’t stop there. Make sure to apply a trusty moisturizer to soothe the skin and prevent irritations because of lack of moisture.
Even if you’re using shaving cream, it’s important to apply moisturizer right after showering. Shaving damages the skin’s barrier by removing its top layer. To keep your skin silky smooth, use a moisturizing oil or cream with ceramide to enhance the skin’s barrier. Apply a generous amount on the shaved areas to provide a healthy glow.
You may also consider exfoliating to keep your freshly shaved skin hydrated. Exfoliate the skin using a dry brush at least two to three times a week to clear potential ingrown hair.
Mistake #4: Keeping the blades for too long
Nothing lasts forever, and razor blades are not an exception. Sticking with your old blades leads to irritation, and you’re likely to get cuts when using a dull blade.
Experts say there’s no specific rule when replacing a razor since it depends on how often you use it. The best way to maximize the use of razors is to keep track of the shaving frequency, targeted parts, and physical traits (e.g., hair thickness). These factors can affect how long a razor lasts. You can judge the quality of a blade or razor based on its feel. Once the blades start to feel uncomfortable or dull, then it’s time to change.
Leaving old razors in the shower can turn into a breeding ground for bacteria. To minimize irritation, change the blade or throw disposable razors after five to 10 shaves.
When it comes to saving, most of us cannot resist the temptation of getting rid of body hair. While shaving can also be a form of skin pampering, it’s important to learn how to shave properly to avoid skin problems and enjoy soft and smooth skin.
