Beautiful skin stands out. It is the first thing people see, and there is nothing that catches the eye like red and irritated skin. A good shaving regimen will help you make a good first impression and divert attention from the blemishes of your skin.
When men shave, they take part in an ancient tradition of personal hygiene and care that has its roots in a time before the first historical records. Most of us have learned to shave from fathers, uncles, or older brothers, who in turn have been initiated into this ritual for countless generations ago. On the way, we may have gotten into bad habits or wrong methods that aren't good for the skin. If you have problems with shaving irritation or burns, follow these instructions for smoother, healthier skin.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Pre-Shave
Step 1. Wash your face
Use soap and warm water. It will soften the hair by removing dirt and bacteria that could clog pores and cause irritation. You can also shave after a shower.
A warm shower with a frequent facial scrub will cleanse the pores of the skin better than plain water
Step 2. Use a pre-shave oil
It is optional, but using it will add protection by moisturizing the skin and leaving the hair slightly more uplifted.
Step 3. Always use a clean, sharp blade
A dull or dirty blade will cut through the leather thicker than a new one. Replace it often, especially if you shave many times. Cleaning the blade and removing hair will extend its life. A rusty blade must be thrown away immediately.
Method 2 of 4: Shaving Techniques
Step 1. Smear a thick layer of shaving cream
Some men do it better with a shaving brush. Apply it again with each stroke of the razor.
Choosing a shaving cream is usually something very personal. However, the best ones on the market contain these ingredients: water, stearic acid, myristic acid, coconut acid, sodium and potassium hydroxide, glycerin and thietrenolamine
Step 2. Shave in the direction of hair growth
You may think that the back of the hair gives you a closer shave, but cutting the hair in this way changes the way it grows back, increasing the risk of irritation and ingrown hair.
Step 3. Be gentle
Pressing the razor too hard against your face or shaving the same spot over and over will cause irritation.
Method 3 of 4: The After Shave
Step 1. Remove shaving cream residue with cold water
The hot one opens the pores of the skin, making it easier to shave. Cold water closes them and prevents bacteria from entering the pores.
Step 2. Apply a rock alum to the skin
You can buy it online or at stores that sell shaving items and it's more effective than just cold water at closing pores. It is especially useful for healing accidental cuts.
Step 3. Apply aftershave
Whether it's a lotion or a conditioner, that's okay. Use a product that smells nice. Aftershave prevents infections.
Collistar or Vichy products are famous for the best results on sensitive skin
Method 4 of 4: Treating Shaving Irritations
Step 1. Use glycolic acid cream to relieve ongoing irritation
You can find it mainly in the pharmacy. Salicylic acid is also very effective.
If necessary, aloe vera or hydrocortisone can also be useful
Advice
- If you find that your razor irritates your skin too much, choose another type, such as safety razors. A safety razor requires less pressure and therefore the risks of irritation are reduced.
- Keep your skin healthy by washing it regularly, moisturizing it, even on days when you don't shave.