By Maxwell Orah
Shaving is without a doubt an important part of grooming for all genders.
While hair growth is normal and expected at some point in life, there are some cons to having hair present in certain parts of the body.
In most cases, shaving is a personal decision. Some individuals decide to use alternative options such as waxing or just keeping the hair.
However, if you’re a fan of shaving, read on to get informed on how to shave properly.
Pros and cons of shaving
Here are some pros of having a shaving session.
1. Quick, easy and painless
In comparison to other methods of hair removal such as waxing, shaving is done easily, faster, and without pain (if done right).
A few minutes in the bathroom with your razor blade or electric razor and you can kiss unwanted hair goodbye.
2. Cheap
Shaving is cheap, affordable and mostly available. You can easily get access to shaving razors from convenience or drug stores.
There are even various models and manufacturers available. Be sure to check the descriptions for one that suits you best.
On the other hand, here are some cons of shaving.
1. Ingrown hairs
Razor shaving could cause the hair follicle to change its initial hair growth direction. When this happens, hair is trapped underneath your skin resulting in the presence of ingrown hairs.
Perhaps you might’ve noticed some bumps on a part you shaved, such as your underarm or jawline. Chances are that they might’ve been caused by ingrown hair.
2. Sensitive skin types
Shaving could cause irritations, redness, and sometimes swelling on sensitive skin types. The procedure itself not only cuts off the hair, but also a thin layer of the skin. As a result, some sensitive skin types might show these reactions.
It’s best to start off on a small patch of your skin if you’re shaving for the
first time.
How to shave properly
Here is a procedure on how to properly shave.
1. Wet your skin and hair
You’ll want to start off by wetting both your skin and hair to make them soft and easily pliable. A great time to shave is after taking your bath. A warm bath before shaving ensures that your skin is soft and warm, and that layers of dead skin cells and natural oil don’t clog up your razor.
2. Apply shaving cream or gel
A shaving gel will help facilitate the use of a razor. If you have a sensitive skin type, be sure to use a shaving cream or gel that indicates “for sensitive skin”.
3. Shave in the hair-growth direction
This step is crucial. Shaving the hair along its growth direction helps to prevent razor burns or bumps. Use the razor on the skin carefully. Apply only as much pressure as needed.
4. Rinse your razor at intervals
Ensure you rinse your razor after each stroke or swipe of shave. You don’t want to use a razor clogged up with hair and gel continuously without rinsing.
5. Rinse your face
After shaving, rinse your face and blade with lukewarm water. Dry your face with a neat face towel. It’s best to have a face towel or washcloth dedicated to drying your face alone.
6. Apply an alcohol-free aftershave
Alcohol dehydrates the skin. If you use aftershave, apply an alcohol-free type.
7. Moisturize
Hydration is important to overall skin health. Use a moisturizer, cream or balm to lock in the moisture of the skin and prevent dehydration.
Things to do after shaving
Here are some things to note and do post-shaving.
1.) Clean your razor thoroughly, and keep it in a dry environment. This is to prevent dirt and moisture content from keeping on the blade resulting in rust.
2.) Change your razor after a few use. The number of uses before a change might be subject to personal opinion. After two or three uses, you should dispose of the blade and get a new one.
3.) Rest your skin. Try not to apply too many different skin care products. If possible, only use necessary products such as a moisturizer.
Hopefully, this has been informative. Be sure to try some of these next time you decide to shave.
