Shaving: Skin Problem and Solutions
Does shaving have you seeing red? Razor bumps, ingrown hair and skin rashes are common complaints with this temporary fix for undesirable hair. But, as mom always used to say, “an ounce of prevention”. And she was right. Shaving can cause a whole host of skin problems that can be prevented with a little know-how. Whether it’s preparing your skin before shaving or a permanent solution to unwanted hair, like Laser Hair Removal, here’s how to achieve a look that’s smooth and clean and hair-free:
How to Prevent Razor Bumps
Razor bumps are tweeners — not quite pimples, not quite boils. But, no matter what you call them, they’re definitely itchy, red and unsightly. They’re caused by gump building up in your pores, as well as skin that’s inflamed due to the irritation of shaving.
Shave in the Shower
A hot shower does a better job of opening up the skin’s pores than splashing water from the sink or while sitting on the side of the tub. It will also remove debris that clogs pores and work to soften the hair, which makes the hair easier to cut.
Lather Up
Dry shaving is a no-no. It will only add to skin irritation, in general, and will definitely contribute to razor bumps developing after shaving.
A Cold Splash
Finish your shave with a splash of cold water to close the pores and prevent the bacteria that sets up camp in your pores from causing razor bumps.
How to Prevent Ingrown Hair
Pesky, irritating ingrown hairs are the result of hair curling up, bending backwards and entering the skin.
Start with a Clean Palette
A pore that is clogged with debris will prevent the hair from breaking through the follicle, giving it no choice but to grow back into the skin. So cleanse and exfoliate your skin before shaving. You will clear the follicle of dead skin cells and oils, which will allow the hair to grow back unimpeded.
Sharpen Up
You want your razor to glide across the surface of the skin, in order to reduce skin inflammation, which can close pores. Replace your old blades with new ones on a regular basis (experts say after 5-6 uses). A good rule of thumb: toss the old blade at the first sign of rusting of the blade or any nicking of the skin during shaving.
Go with the Grain
It’s a myth that shaving away from the grain will give you a closer shave. Plus, by shaving against the grain you are actually changing the way the hair will grow back, and increasing the likelihood of ingrown hairs.
How To Prevent Red, Patchy Skin After Shaving
If you are complaining about this kind of skin rash, it’s likely that you have sensitive skin and need to take special care due to your skin type.
Product Matters
The right product will not only act as a lubricant to help your razor glide over the surface of the skin, it will also work to hydrate the skin. Look for pre-shave oil and shaving cream with glycerin to add moisture to the skin. An added benefit: it will help the hair stand on end for a closer shave.
After Shave
And we’re not talking about Old Spice here! Applying certain ingredients immediately after shaving, such as Aloe Vera, Witch Hazel and Hydrocortisone Cream, will work to calm inflamed, red and irritated skin.
Embrace the Cold
Another way to calm inflamed skin is by applying a cold compress to the area after shaving. This method requires a little patience though. The longer you apply cold to inflamed skin (at least five minutes is recommended), the better it works to reduce redness and skin irritation.
Smooth Synergy Shaving Solutions
At Smooth Synergy, we pride ourselves on our ability to customize a treatment plan to meet your individual skincare concerns. We offer many solutions to the skincare issues caused by shaving. Please consider:
- A Facial to combat all kinds of skin irritation caused by shaving on the face, as well as to cleanse and exfoliate your skin to create a smooth, clean palette for shaving.
- A medical-grade skincare product, from the Nicole Contos Skincare line to enhance your shaving experience.
OR
- Banish shaving and the skincare woes it causes altogether. Laser Hair Removal works to provide lasting hair removal on all areas of the body, including: arms, legs, knees, feet, face, back, bikini area – basically, on any area of the body where you want to block hair growth. It just might be the permanent solution to unwanted hair that you’ve been looking for.
Our shaving solutions are part of a comprehensive menu of skincare products and treatments. Call us at 212-397-0111, to speak with one of our experts in beauty about what is right for you.
