According to Medical News Today shaving can irritate the skin, which may lead to itchy and painful red bumps. Itching after shaving may be a sign of razor burn or folliculitis. Shaving incorrectly, using a dull razor, or shaving a sensitive area of skin can all cause skin irritation.
Using shaving products that contain artificial scents and harsh chemicals, such as alcohol, can irritate the skin and contribute to itchiness. That is why Buck Ridge Soap Company makes our Aloe & Avocado No Foam Shaving Lotion. It is alcohol free and leaves skin moisturized after shaving or you can choose from a number of our shaving soaps.
You should never ‘dry shave’ – not unless you *want* razor burn.
The bottom line is, shaving irritates your hair follicles and skin especially if you use a dull or unclean razor or shave against the grain. It isn’t rocket science, you are literally scraping a blade against your skin and if your razor is dull it’s going to literally pull the hairs out from the root. OUCH!
Male facial hair tends to grow at a low angle close to the skin, which can raise the risk of ingrown hairs and skin irritation as well so using a fresh razor is key especially in men with naturally curly hair which increases the risk of ingrown hairs.
Dermatologist, Robert Anolik, MD, FAAD, shares the following tips for shaving facial hair in a press release from the AAD:
- Soften the skin and hair with water.
- Apply shaving soap or lotion and let it sit on the skin for 2–3 minutes.
- Shave in the direction that the hair grows.
- Rinse the razor well after each stroke.
- After shaving, rinse the face with cold water.
- Apply a moisturizer and sunscreen.
The dermatologist also recommends that people store razors in a dry place. Leaving a razor on a wet surface, such as in the shower or next to the sink, can allow bacteria to grow on the blades. This may lead to a higher risk of bacteria entering the skin and causing irritation or infection.