Note: Rubbing in a hair inhibitor each time
after shaving can significantly reduce the rate of hair growth and
thus make shaving sessions less frequent.
Click here
for information on hair inhibitors and shaving
Avoid shaving when first getting up after sleep
as body fluids make the skin puffy making it more difficult to shave
the hair. After 20 or 30 minutes the skin becomes more taut so the
hair shaft is more exposed making it easier.
Don't stay in the bath too long before shaving.
The skin will shrivel after eight minutes or so making it difficult
to get a smooth, close shave.
Use preshave products such as soaps, lathers, creams
and gels. They lock moisture into the hair, they help keep the hair
erect and they reduce friction allowing the blade to glide easily
over the skin. Hair conditioner can also be used to soften hair.
The more repeat strokes over an area of skin the
greater risk of irritation. To remove stray hairs which are not
removed after one or two passes with the razor, use a pop-up trimmer.
Never share your razor or shaver with anyone else
to avoid skin infections.
Running the fingertips over the shaved area is a
very effective method of ensuring a close thorough shave. The sense
of touch will alert you to stubble and missed patches it may be
difficult to see in the mirror.
Always wet the hair first for at least 3 minutes.
Hair absorbs water which makes it stand up making it easier when
shaving. Wet hair also reduces wear on the blade. Shaving after
taking a shower is an ideal time.
For a close shave with minimal irritation, try and
use an angle of approximately 30 degrees between the blade and the
skin.
To lessen the risk of razor burn and extend the
life of the blade, allow shaving cream to sit on the skin for 4
minutes before shaving. Thick shaving cream or foam offers the best
protection against irritation and cuts.
Use a sharp new blade. If you need to use pressure
on the blade it is time to change it. Using a blunt blade can increase
the danger of ingrown hair.
Splash the skin with cold water after shaving to
help stop any bleeding from small nicks and also remove any traces
of soap or lather.
When shaving the leg area use long strokes going
against the grain avoiding repeat strokes. Great care needs to be
exercised especially around bony areas such as the ankle or knee.
Hair under the arm grows in all directions so a
side to side stroke as well as up and down strokes may be necessary
to catch all the hairs. Do not apply deodorants or anti-perspirants
right after shaving as this can cause acute irritation and soreness.
For the bikini line, shave in the direction of the
hair and avoid repeating the strokes to minimize irritation in this
very sensitive area.
Shaving Questions Answered:
What are the pros and cons of wet shaving?
PROS: Quick, inexpensive, an especially
close shave, refreshing and reinvigorates the skin with use of shaving
lotions.
CONS: Stubble reappears quickly, risk of
cuts and nicks to the skin, risk of ingrown hair if the blade is
not sharp.
What should I look for in choosing a razor?
Some razors such as Schick and Wilkinson-Sword,
have comfort or lubricating strips near the cap above the blades.
Some contain aloe and are made from water soluble polymer or PVP
which allows for a smooth glide over the skin reducing friction.
Twin blades allow for a very close shave and many
come with flexible heads allowing the razor to follow the contours
of the body.
Look for razors with safety guard wires over the
blades to minimize the risk of cuts and nicks and skin irritation.
Blades with a platinum chrome finish maintain their
sharpness.
Which is the best direction - with the hair growth
or against it?
Shaving in the same direction as the hair growth
is the most comfortable. Shaving against the hair growth certainly
gives a much closer shave. Many use a combination of both.
Many dermatologists warn however that shaving against
the hair growth can cause ingrown hair and irritation and it can
make the skin sore and sensitive.
How many times can I use one blade?
This depends greatly on the individual and the
thickness or coarseness of the hair. Some prefer to change a blade
after using it once or twice, others after 3 or 4 times while many
expect between 5 to 7 uses.
The key is to change it regularly and always use
a sharp blade. If you feel it dragging on your skin it's time to
change it!