A clean-shaven face may make you feel fresh and clean, but for many men, the side effects of razor shaving is razor burn. Most often men’s shaving can lead to razor burn because of improper shaving techniques, not preparing your face appropriately and not caring for your skin after shaving.
What is Razor Burn?
Razor burn is a rash that appears after razor shaving. For some, it’s a somewhat itchy, red rash on the face and neck. For others, it can also produce razor bumps, which are created by ingrown hairs that look like pimples. At 18|8, we believe that part of our role is to share information with our clients that will leave them looking their best, so here are our best tips on how to avoid razor burn.
Soften Your Beard
A soft beard is removed much more easily than a rough beard, so the best time to shave is after you take a shower. The hot steam from the shower will help open your pores and soften your beard. The best way to prepare your skin for razor shaving is to put hair conditioner on your beard and leave it on while you are in the shower. After you remove the conditioner, your beard will be very soft and ready for the razor.
Invest in a Badger Brush
A traditional badger brush is the best way to lather up for a smoother shave. The brush helps lift your whiskers so the shaving cream can get underneath them for better results.
Use a Safety Razor
Another traditional men’s shaving tool that will help cut down on razor burn is a safety razor. The multiple blades of today’s razors irritate the skin and have more blades than is really needed for a close, smooth shave.
Shave with the Grain
Many men believe that the only way to get a smooth shave is to shave against the grain. While it will leave your face feeling smooth, it also increases your chances of getting razor burn and ingrown hairs. Shaving with the grain will help prevent irritation and razor burn. Removing your beard with this technique may require a few more passes with the razor, but several passes with the grain are better than one pass against the grain.
Use Short, Light Strokes
With long strokes when razor shaving, you will tend to apply more pressure on the razor, which can result in razor burn. The weight of the razor is enough to cut through your beard, so to keep from applying to much pressure on the razor, use light short strokes. And, you should also rinse off the blade after each stroke with the razor.
Make Sure Your Blade Sharp
Just like a dull knife tears food, a dull razor will drag and tear at your whiskers, which will leave your skin irritated and cause ingrown hairs. While many razor companies claim that you can use the blade for 7 to 10 shaves, it is much better to change the razor after four to five shaves to reduce your chances of developing razor burn. If you use a safety razor, you can keep your costs down because each blade is around $.25.
Rinse with Cold Water
After you finish shaving, rinse your face with cold water to close your pores, which will reduce the chance of ingrown hairs.
Use a Balm, Moisturizer or Razor Bump Cream
No matter how carefully you shave, your face can still feel a little irritated after shaving. Apply a soothing aftershave balm or an aloe vera-based cortisone cream to help reduce any irritation or redness. There are also razor bump creams you can apply to help prevent ingrown hair from forming.
Clean Your Razor
Bacteria on your blade is one of the main causes of razor burn. After each shave, you should wipe the blade with rubbing alcohol so that you remove any bacteria on the blade.
Try 18|8 for a Shave
For men’s shaving, treat yourself to a classic shave at 18|8 Fine Men’s Salon, This 30-minute treatment starts with a hot towel and hot lather, and a shave with a straight-edge razor. After, your skin will be soothed with an aromatic hot towel finish. You can also add a rejuvenating face treatment to clean and moisturize your skin.
Call us at (512) 489-1881 to make an appointment at 18|8 Fine Men’s Salon at The Domain in Austin or book an appointment online to experience a shave like no other.