Tired of having rough, itchy skin? Hate the thought of shaving? Many men are not taught how to shave properly, and as shaving tools continue to evolve, men are using tools on their faces that they don’t know how to use properly.
These uncomfortable problems should not be accepted as a part of shaving, as there are ways that you can prevent this from happening.
In this piece, we look at what exactly razor burn and skin irritation are as well as showing you how you can eliminate razor burn and irritation as a result of shaving with an electric shaver or electric razor.
What Is Razor Burn?
Razor burn is the result of shaving with a dull blade. It results in red bumps or rashes in areas that have just been shaved.
The skin becomes irritated when it’s exposed to friction from the sharp edge of the blade, which causes the cells that line your face to become inflamed. This inflammation can cause redness, swelling, itching, and even blisters. It can be very painful and uncomfortable.
How To Get Rid Of Razor Burn?
If you find that you are suffering from razor burn, there are several steps that you can take to aid your skin with its recovery. Find these steps outlined below:
Avoid shaving until the razor burn has passed, as shaving again on the area could cause more irritation to the skin and trauma.
Purchase a hydrocortisone cream from your local drugstore; this should be used as a treatment for rashes.
Use a hydrating moisturizer to help your skin to repair quicker.
What Is Skin Irritation?
Skin irritation occurs when the skin has been damaged. It may be that your skin is dry, sunburned, or suffering from razor burn, which all lead to irritated skin.
Skin irritations can be extremely uncomfortable as they are often incredibly itchy, and in most cases, if you do scratch your skin, you can cause more damage, especially if your nails are not clean, as this could cause infections due to bacteria.
How To Get Rid Of Skin Irritation?
There are two simple steps that you can incorporate into your daily routine that will help to avoid skin irritation. Find these steps outlined below:
Moisturize your skin twice a day with a hydrating and soothing cleanser. Hydrated skin typically has a stronger barrier which helps to prevent skin irritation from happening.
Use alcohol-free skincare products to avoid weakening your skin and stripping it of your natural oils. Shaving inflicts trauma to the skin so you should use sensitive skin products to help calm and soothe your skin
What Are Electric Shavers?
An electric shaver is a modern shaving tool used by men worldwide. This electrical device has rotating blades behind a metal guard which shave facial hair.
Shaving with an electric shaver is considered to be time-saving as well as preventing cuts and nicks.
Some electric shavers are designed for dry shaving and have a moisturizing metal guard that helps to prevent skin irritation.
Some electric shavers are safe to use with an emollient, but you should always check the device’s manual before use to ensure you use it correctly.
Electric shavers are particularly popular with men with facial hair as you can add different shaped heads to the shaver which allows you to shape and trim your facial hair from the comfort of your own home.
How To Use An Electric Shaver?
Using an electric shaver is a very straightforward process, and by taking the time to use this electric tool properly, you will be able to prevent damage to the skin and nicks and cuts.
While different models may be compatible with dry or wet shaves, in most cases, you will follow the below steps for a perfect shave every time. Always check the usage instructions for your shaver before use.
You should use warm water to soften the skin first. This helps to open the hair follicles helping you to achieve a closer shave. Pat the skin dry.
Make sure you’re holding the shaver correctly. Hold the handle firmly with both hands, and keep your grip close to the body. Your thumb should rest on the back of the head, and your index finger should press against the side of the head.
Turn the power switch on.
Run the shaver through the hair. Start at the bottom of the neck, then work up towards the ears. Make sure you don’t go past the end of the beard, or else you’ll cut yourself.
Once you’ve finished, turn off the power switch.
Place the shaver down and rinse the face well with cold water. This closes the hair follicles and pores to prevent any dirt from getting into the skin. Pat skin dry and apply your skincare products.
If your electric shaver is safe to use for a wet shave, you should wipe the head off after each pass. This will prevent the metal guard from becoming clogged. Some models may require the metal guard to be removed after use to be washed. Check the instructions that come with your shaver for the best usage instructions.
How To Eliminate Razor Burn And Irritation From Electric Shavers?
Here are some useful tips on how you can prevent and ultimately eliminate razor burn and skin irritation as a result of using an electric shaver.
Use Emollients When Shaving
Emollient is an ingredient found in most moisturizers, and it helps the skin to stay soft and hydrated. When you shave, you are not only removing hair, but you are also removing the top most outer layers of your skin.
This is why using an emollient product is useful when shaving, depending on whether your shaver is compatible with dry or wet shaves, as it helps to soothe the skin and prevent razor burn.
Dry shaving is one of the most common ways of causing razor burn and skin irritation. If you have sensitive skin, you should consider buying shavers that are suitable for use for wet shaves to prevent irritation.
By simply adding an emollient such as shaving cream or gel, you are instantly protecting your skin and nourishing it.
Shave At The Right Angle
The best way to shave is to hold the shaver or razor at a 45-degree angle to the skin. If you hold it parallel to the skin you are more likely to cut yourself and cause irritation.
Use A Warm Water Rinse
Rinsing your face with warm water is another simple step that you can take to improve your results. Warm water opens pores and allows the razor to glide smoothly over the skin.
It also makes the hair softer, which means less tugging and pulling during the shaving process.
Don’t Shave Over The Same Area Again
If you want to avoid shaving the same spot twice, try using a new angle.
For example, instead of going straight down the middle of your chin, aim the razor slightly higher. This way, you won’t have to shave the same spot again.
Use A Mirror
It’s easy to forget where you shaved last time, especially if you’re not looking in a mirror. Use a mirror to check your progress, and make sure you haven’t missed any spots.
Use A Moisturizer
Moisturizers are essential for keeping your skin healthy and hydrated. Moisturizers also help to protect against dryness and irritation. Look for one that has ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Many men use products containing alcohol, ammonia, sodium lauryl sulfate, or benzoyl peroxide to treat acne. These substances can irritate the skin, causing inflammation and redness.
Use A Non-Irritating Cleanser
Many people prefer cleansing their skin with mild cleansers. These products usually don’t strip away the natural oils that protect the skin. Instead, they gently wash away dirt and dead cells without irritating the skin.
Use A Lubricant
Most men who shave their faces apply shaving lotion before starting the actual shaving process. Shaving lotions contain moisturizers, which help to prevent dryness and irritation. They also provide a protective layer between the skin and the razor.
Wet Shave With The Right Tools
Wet shaves are a great way of avoiding irritation, but only some electric shavers are suitable for use to shave using this method.
If you do have a shaver that is compatible with wet shaves, make sure that you are using the right tools. You will need the following:
A Good Quality Shaving Brush
A good-quality shaving brush will help to distribute the lather evenly across your face. It will also help to lift away dead skin cells from beneath the surface of the skin.
The brush bristles should be firm enough to give you a smooth shave yet flexible enough to allow them to bend around curves and corners.
These ingredients will help to protect your skin and ensure that you have a smooth and comfortable shave. Avoid creams containing alcohol, which can cause drying out of the skin.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating an electric shaver or razor into your shaving and skincare routine may be faster than shaving with a manual razor, but it is important that you treat your skin properly.
Always check the instructions before using a new shaving tool, and don’t rush the first number of uses, as it will take time to adapt from a manual razor to an electric shaver.
This will help to prevent any damage to the skin and keep your skin smooth and hydrated.
My name is Doug, and I've been growing a beard on and off for many years now.
I've not had a perfect journey on the road to growing a beard. I've spent more time than I want to admit learning about growing a beard. I'm not one of those blessed with perfect beard-growing genes. So, I've encountered many frustrating and challenging obstacles along the way.
I hope some of my mistakes and victories along the way will help you on your journey to your perfect beard. Of course, reach out if I can help and share this content with your friends that are beginning or struggling on their journey as well.
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