Shaving Tips for Men
What Causes Ingrowns, What They Are, and Who is More Likely to Get Them…
Many problems occur when shaving is done "against the grain". You may have imagined a little bit of skin sticking up from where the hair comes out of the follicle and figured your skin must be getting cut. It’s not quite that simple.
What actually happens when you have slightly sensitive skin or curly hair occurs because you have to pull your skin a little to hold it while you’re shaving against the grain. If your razor has more than one blade, the little strip at the top will pull the skin, too. That means the hair is getting cut a little more as the skin is pulled taught to make it stick out more. At that point, the hairs are pointing in the wrong direction because it’s pointing out according to how the skin is being pulled. After the skin is released, some hairs don’t necessarily go back to the position they were in before. Those hairs are not pointing toward the opening of the follicle. So where is it supposed to go ? I’m sure you can guess.
So basically, it’s a trade off - closer shave or irritation bumps. You can get better results if you use a fresh single-blade disposable razor every time, and make sure you shave with the grain, not against it. Yes, you will not get as close a shave. But what would you rather have on your face ? Stubble or zits ?
A few more tips :
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•Mild soap meant for sensitive skin can sometimes work better for you than shaving cream, which usually has harsh detergents and can be very drying – even the ones that say “for sensitive skin”.
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•An alcohol-free, witch hazel based toner can balance skin, tighten pores and hydrate the skin better than any after-shave can.
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•An electric razor is fine, just remember that rotary razors cut the hair in a million different directions. There is much more chance that way for the hair to grow back wrong, causing ingrown hairs. Using the kind they use in salons and barbershops is a better bet. Clean the blades on a regular basis, at least once a month. Purchasing a blade cleaner at a beauty supply store is a good idea. Don’t be afraid to ask for their help.
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•DO NOT try to extract ingrown hairs yourself ! The skin has to be prepared properly in order not to make the problem worse. If you have a small problem, visit an esthetician for a 15-minute consultation. It may be easy to extract and can be taken care of right away. If your problem is not small, GET A FACIAL! Swallow your pride and make the appointment and get the problem fixed. You'll be glad you did.
Also, don't neglect the rest of your face! A good skin care routine is always a good idea - it doesn't have to be 'foo-foo' or complicated. Cleanser, toner, moisturizer appropriate for your skin type, AM & PM. Simple as that. There’s even one available that is a fragrance-free after shave and moisturizer in one. If you work or run outside, sorry guys, you need a sun screen. No way around it. Get one that doesn’t clog, isn’t greasy and puts water into your skin without just lubricating it.
If you have a full beard or goatee, don't use hair conditioner on it – hair products can contain ingredients that can clog pores on the face, if not the scalp! Use regular face moisturizer instead.
