Irritation after shaving can ruin your mood for the whole day. What if there is an important meeting? We will tell you what helps with irritation after shaving and how to shave to avoid it
Do you experience skin irritation every time you shave? Weekly stubble growing on its own looks untidy, but red spots with pimples don’t add to the appeal. In fact, avoiding irritation after shaving is very simple. The main thing is to know why it appears and how to deal with it. We will talk about this in our article.
Why does irritation appear?
Irritation after shaving occurs for various reasons. These include improper shaving, poor-quality tools, a dull blade, and insufficient skin hydration.
The first mistake that can cause irritation is shaving against hair growth. You think you are cutting the bristles at the root, but you are scraping the protective layer of the skin, driving the hairs deeper. An active process of skin regeneration is launched, a new layer covers the hair follicles, bristles begin to grow sideways. At best, red spots and pimples will appear after shaving, at worst – ingrown hairs.
Much depends on the choice of razor. Ideally, the blade should fit tightly against the skin and slide under the weight of the handle. That is why connoisseurs of a smooth shave choose classic T-shaped machines made of metal.
If you press too hard on the razor while shaving, the blade will damage the skin. It may not end in cuts, but irritation is guaranteed. It’s the same with a blade that’s dulled: if you notice that it’s getting harder to shave, you need to replace it right away, instead of running the machine back and forth trying to cut off the remaining stubble. All this will lead to itching.
The quality of your shave depends on hydration, especially if you have dry and sensitive skin. It’s fine if you use shaving foam or gel, but in addition, you need to steam the skin before starting the procedure, and then apply a soothing agent.
Try not to clog the blade with your hair. Do not forget to wash it after each movement.
Irritation after electric razor
It should be said separately about irritation from an electric shaver. Unlike regular razors, electric razors are suitable for dry shaving, but the method itself can cause irritation even for men with normal skin. The reason is insufficient hydration. If you have never used an electric shaver before, it is better to buy one that is suitable for both dry and wet shaving.
When choosing an electric shaver, consider your skin type. There are two types of electric shavers: rotary and mesh. The former are suitable for men with thick skin and hard bristles, and the latter for men with sensitive skin and soft bristles.
How to shave without irritation
If you want to minimize the possibility of irritation, try following these recommendations:
- It is best to shave in the evening. Firstly, you will not have to rush anywhere, and secondly, the skin will have time to recover while you sleep. This is especially important if you shave every day. The skin should rest. Skip the weekend routine if you can’t afford to shave every other day.
- To steam the skin, it is enough to take a shower. Warm water and steam will expand the pores and soften the hair.
- Before proceeding, create a layer of foam or gel if you shave wet. Thus, the razor will have less contact with the skin, and the blade will slide better. If you have soft hair, you can use shaving oil. It is also convenient because you will be able to see in which direction the bristles grow.
- Shave with smooth, light movements as the hair grows. Do not press on the handle of the shaver.
- After the procedure, wash with cold water. Use a special product that soothes the skin. It can be a cream, balm, aftershave gel or even a baby cream: now it is not a problem to choose what is right for you. The main thing is that the product does not contain alcohol.
How to relieve irritation after shaving
It also happens that you shave properly, use good products, and your skin still responds with irritation. If you notice redness during the procedure, make a compress after shaving: wet a towel with cold water and leave it on your face for 10-15 minutes. This will narrow the pores and soothe the skin.
Is the irritation manifested in the form of peeling and itching? Use scrubs and peelings when washing your face. Choose medicated brands such as La Roche-Posay, Skin Doctors and others to combat irritation. As a rule, they contain components that not only gently exfoliate the skin, but also have antibacterial properties.
If you have acne breakouts after shaving, tea tree oil can help. Dissolve 3-4 drops of essential oil in two tablespoons of water, apply the mixture to a cotton pad and wipe the inflamed areas. Leave the mixture to absorb for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. This procedure must be repeated twice a day.
Using beard oil of natural origin prevents irritation, relieves discomfort and heals microtraumas. If your skin starts to itch and become bumpy, apply some product to your face and start massaging.
Another remedy for acne after shaving is sure to be in your first aid kit. We are talking about aspirin. Crush a few pills and mix with a little water to make a paste. Leave the mixture on the skin for 10 minutes and wash off with water. Aspirin cannot be used for allergies and hemophilia.
Cleansers containing sea salt or aloe extract dry well in case of inflammation. You can also buy panthenol ointment or spray at a pharmacy. Panthenol relieves itching, burning and accelerates the healing of microtraumas.