skin care tips

Hair removal is generally a challenge especially when it comes to which method you have to choose. Most women are shaving the hair to have flawless legs, bikini line, and face without any hair. At the same time, men do shave to boast the smooth and hairless chest and face. But, what if you have sensitive skin and you want to shave unwanted hair? What is the best way to shave for sensitive skin?

As we go along, we will share the proper way of shaving for sensitive skin based on the area to be shaved. But before that, we will also discuss first the perks and drawbacks of shaving as a hair removal process. Let’s check them all out below!

Pros and Cons of Shaving

Actually, there are various methods of hair removal. However, the most common and convenient one is to shave those hairs away. But, before to dig into taking this method, you must have to learn the benefits and drawbacks of shaving as a method of hair removal.

 The Pros of Shaving:

• Can be incorporated as part of the daily hygiene regimen
• Quick and convenient to perform at home
• The materials needed for doing the process such as the razors and shaving cream cost economically in contrast with the professional salon waxes.
• Not a painful process of hair removal as it only targets to remove the hair follicle from the skin’s surface and still maintaining the root intact
• No length requirement for shaving

The Cons of Shaving:

• Shaving may be a contributing factor of hair follicles inflammation, skin itching, razor burn, and ingrown hairs.
• The result may only last for about 1 to 3 days
• Dull blades may irritate and cut the skin

Friendly Shaving Tips:

Now that you already know what will you benefit from shaving and the harm that it may cause, check these helpful tips for shaving in case you still opt to remove hair using this method.

• The best way to shave for sensitive skin is to invest a little more time doing it. It is much better if you will consider using moisturizers in case your skin is sensitive.
• Do not attempt shaving dry rather opt in using shaving cream over soap.
• Finish your bath or shower before you shave because it is during this time when the pores are open and the skin is soft.

The Best Way to Shave for Sensitive Skin on the Face

A fresh face may not be a victim of razor burn once you do shaving over it. Actually, shaving in the morning when you have sensitive skin leads to dryness, ingrown hairs, and razor bumps. However, it should not be like that. Below are helpful tips regarding the best way to shave for sensitive skin on your face.

1. Facial steaming

As part of the best way to shave for sensitive skin over the face, initially go into the shower. Application of hot, moist towel to the face for about 30 seconds will also do the job. Basically, this process will allow the facial skin to soften up the whiskers and open the pores. With this, it will be easier for the razor to flawlessly glide within the facial area thus cutting the hairs without hassle.

Moreover, this is also essential in preventing the occurrence of irritation. Keep in mind that if the application of pressure over the face during shaving is lesser, razor bumps will less likely to occur.

2. Selecting the appropriate blade

In terms of opting for the right blade, it is actually good to go for less. Generally, razors having three-blades cut closest to the skin. Even though it produces a cleaner shave, it also enhances the risk of irritation once everyday brushing is done. That’s why the best way to shave for sensitive skin especially for those who shave in a less frequent manner is to make use of multiple-blade razors.

Another best thing to do is to change the blade most of the time. Keep in mind that old blade will basically cause skin cuts frequently. The combination of the water and pressure over time may typically corrode the fine edge of the razor. This will lead to blunt and uneven razor thus acts similarly with a serrated knife getting in touch with the skin.

3. Never go for alcohol-based products

Preferably, shave creams are far better than alcohol-based foams and gels. Generally, the shave creams reduce the facial skin irritation most likely if you have sensitive skin. However, the creams that you’ll have to select must be based on your own preference.

For example, shave lather will greatly provide a smooth and bubbly shave. Meanwhile, consider using soft and transparent shave butter in case you want to notice the area of shaving.

4. Go with the flow

Basically, the best way to shave for sensitive skin is to shave in the direction of hair growth. Going with the flow of your hair as you shave will highly reduce irritation. As a rule of thumb on shaving within the facial area is to go down on the face and move upward when it comes on the neck. Aside from that, shaving on the direction of your hair supports in the reduction of ingrown hairs.

5. Post-care approach

Actually, shaving is not yet over when you down the razor. Due to this, proper post-care method smoothens the facial skin to avoid any irritation. Ensure that you will also use a post-shave cream that is gentle on the skin and is alcohol-free as well. Doing this will create a well-nourished and hydrated skin.

The Best Way to Shave for Sensitive Skin on the Legs of Women

Some women have lots of hair growing on their legs. Normally, men grow long hair on their armpit and legs. But for women, this is something irritating and disgusting. That’s why women having growing hairs on their legs are trying to shave it. But, if you have a skin that is subtle, here is the best way to shave for sensitive skin.

1. Shave as you shower

Basically, shaving the legs as you go on a regular shower is the best way to shave for sensitive skin on the legs. Do this until the end of the shower. Remember that the excellent combination of water and steam will let the coarse hair to soften. Moreover, this step will help the hair in the preparation for shaving.

Another thing to keep in mind is not to shave on an everyday basis because the skin also needs ample time to repair itself after the shaving process. Aside from that, frequent shaving may lead to irritation especially for those with sensitive skin.

2. Exfoliate the legs

Exfoliate the leg area in a gentle manner using a mild, natural exfoliator. Doing this may take away the dead cells around the legs that generally block or blunt the razor. Aside from that, it also aids in preventing ingrown hairs. The best way to shave for sensitive skin on the legs is to use scrubs made of Shea butter.

3. Form lather

Basically, rinse the scrub within your leg area and eventually massage a shaving gel into it and form lather. This will generally support an easy slide of the razor over the surface of the skin over the leg area. Moreover, it also lowers the risk occurrence of shaving nick or rash.

4. Make a smooth stroke

The best way to shave for sensitive skin is to make a slow and flawless stroke moving into the direction of the hair growth. Remember not to shave in the opposite direction as it can cause skin irritation and ingrown hair development. Aside from that, always take caution in shaving each and every area only once.

5. Pat dry

Gently pat dry the skin of the legs through the use of a soft towel. Also, do not aggravate the newly shaved surface of the skin.

6. Moisturizing the skin

Aside from hair removal from the body, the shaving process will also take off the outer layer of the skin’s surface. Usually, this process allows skin dehydration which calls for the use of moisturizer after shaving. Basically, select a moisturizer that has Evening Primrose in its ingredient. This plant-based skincare product retains the moisture of the skin by penetrating deep down and reduces the inflammation at the same time.

Again, do not apply alcohol-based moisturizer. Despite being drying on the skin, this will also expose the newly shaved skin to be more susceptible to irritation.

The Best Way to Shave for Sensitive Skin on the Bikini Area of Women

Before jumping into the shower and doing your way down there, better to read on for some helpful tips on the best way to shave for sensitive skin on the bikini area of women.

1. Buy a good-quality bikini razor

Aside from being the best way to shave for sensitive skin, going after the appropriate razor on the bikini area also ensures to achieve a smooth and bump-free bikini line. Having more blades on the razor incorporates more pressure giving every blade a lesser cut with minimal effort but more effective. This basically means that you will have a better shave without cutting or irritating your skin.

Generally, a firm and sturdy razor that has soothing strips will do the trick effectively. You can also consider single-blade razors made from stainless steel material. In order to lower the significant numbers of plastic waste, this type of razor sits into the popular spot. With just one stroke, the hair will completely be removed if you have a good bikini razor on hand.

2. Avoid ingrown hair within the bikini line

The best way to shave for sensitive skin on the bikini line is basically to take around 10 minutes in warm water before the shaving process. Doing this will aid in softening the outer layer of the skin thus removing the hair easily. This will also reduce the chances of acquiring a razor burn. Moreover, you can pat dry the skin within the bikini line after 10 minutes so that excess water will be removed.

After cleaning and drying of the bikini line, do some gentle exfoliation using a wet washcloth. You can also use a scrub in order to take off dead skin cells making the blade to reach closer to the skin. Along with that, ingrown hair may be teased out before shaving.

3. Never forget the shaving cream

Most of the time, when you shave the hair you can also shave the skin. Knowing this will let you realize the importance of the shaving cream. Basically, not using an appropriate shaving cream will slightly abrade and irritate the skin.

However, don’t just grab a cheap shaving cream; instead consider using a premium quality shaving gel containing moisturizing ingredients such as the Shea butter, coconut oil, and olive oil. These oils will offer a good buffer system for the razor.

Basically, the best way to shave for sensitive skin is to apply a thin sheet of the shaving cream over the bikini area. This will allow you to clearly see the skin and the hair shaft located below. Actually, this step is generally safer as the back and forth movement of the blade over the skin of the bikini line is not needed.

4. Focus on the shaving direction

Generally, there are various ideas involving the best way to shave for sensitive skin on the bikini line. The shaving direction whether to go up or to go down the bikini line is still the main point of concern. Basically, the way you shave is highly essential most likely for individuals who are susceptible to acquiring bumps.

Moreover, shaving on various directions using your bikini razor will possibly cut the skin within the bikini line and the likelihood of having ingrown hair. As a general rule, only shave in the direction of hair growth. Keep in mind that moving the razor on the direction against the hair growth will cause irritation.

As the bikini razor glides across the bikini line, always maintain the blade on a downward position without incorporating too much pressure. One stroke is generally fine especially if the razor contains multiple blades.

5. Relax the skin within the bikini area

Once the shaving process is done, wash and rinse the bikini area. Eventually, put a cold compress within the area for about 10 minutes so that irritation would be prevented. Moreover, for the purpose of reducing the possibility of razor burn, it is actually better to put on some fragrance-free anti-redness serum.

Serum containing tea tree oil is a good choice as it is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and at the same time, an antiseptic. Moreover, if severe irritation occurs after the shaving, use more intense creams such as topical steroids. It generally decreases redness, pain, and swelling.

6. Moisturize

The most important post-shaving approach is the hydration and moisturization of the skin. Application of a fragrance-free and alcohol-free moisturizer on both parts of the bikini line is ideal as it is locks-in moisture. Doing this will also prevent the excessive drying of the skin which will eventually cause irritation. Look for moisturizing products with aloe vera, vitamin E, and jojoba oil.

7. Clean the razor

It is actually a rule of thumb to clean and sanitize the blades after the shaving process. Do this generally by using rubbing alcohol and warm water. Moreover, throw away your razor if you notice any rust and it has been used for quite a long time.

Basically, old blades should be replaced in case you already used it for about five to seven times. Additionally, storing the blades in a clean, dry area will prevent any red bumps because of the prevention of picking up any bacteria present within the shower.

8. If shaving fails

Aside from shaving, there are other options available for you to remove hair in any parts of your body. You can consider waxing to have a safe and gentle way of hair removal. Moreover, if you are opting for a long term option, laser hair removal is a good choice. However, shaving is still the most common, economical, and quick-fix approach of hair removal.

Final Thoughts

The best way to shave for sensitive skin is strictly following the step-by-step guidelines on doing it the right way. In order to achieve this, you should have the appropriate razor for your shaving process that generally suits your preference. Aside from that, you should also be keen on the shaving direction as it is one of the most important key points to take into account when you shave your sensitive skin. Moreover, don’t forget to hydrate and moisturize your skin after shaving to give your skin a smooth, hair-free treat.

Basically, shaving is the most common and convenient quick-fix of hair removal in any parts of the body. You just have to discipline yourself in doing the right approach of the shaving method and care after the process. But, once you made it the right way, you will surely with the result and be very happy with your flawless skin.

Ingrown hair may be extremely uncomfortable for some time. There may also be some cases that ingrown hairs may become infected. Some are trying to squeeze or pick it up. Yet, it is a good thing that there are lots of best thing for ingrown hair available to effectively get rid of it with lesser pain. Check here for helpful ways on preventing that ingrown hair from building up their heads.

What are Ingrown Hairs?

Generally, ingrown hairs occur once the growing hairs were trapped beneath the skin’s surface. Due to this, the hairs begin to move back down inside the skin as they grow. This body phenomenon seems that ingrown hairs have a mind to basically do what they need to do and rather curl back. People having these ingrown hairs may tend to have an infection within the affected spot afterwards.

These hairs look like a little bump which is usually tan or pink in color underneath the skin. Most of the time, the ingrown hairs are seen as small pinpoint within the underlying hair just below the skin bump. Meanwhile, there will be various red or pink minute bumps within the hair follicles on skin areas where hair grows normally. This can be basically observed in most serious cases.

During the stage of puberty, ingrown hairs may occur as the most popular skin condition for this age group. These hairs can be found commonly in body parts where there is the presence of coarse hairs such as the beard in men and the bikini area in women. Moreover, the growth of ingrown hair may also vary depending on the texture or racial group. Generally, African Americans who tend to have thicker and curlier hairs have the highest rate of ingrown hair growth.

Actually, the presence of ingrown hairs does not call for worry as it is harmless. But, in terms of the aesthetic field, it usually ends up to cosmetic disfiguration. Along with this, it may generally result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or skin discoloration, scarring, and skin infection. Moreover, in rare cases, there will also be the formation of a keloid scar.

Where Do Ingrown Hairs Come From?

There are actually various factors that may generally trigger the growth of ingrown hairs. Here are some of the common causes of ingrown hairs:

• Sharp hair tip due to cut near or underneath the opening of a hair follicle
• Improper shaving methods
• Hair removal techniques such as waxing
• Friction due to wearing of tight clothing
• Blockage of too much dead skin debris to the opening of the hair follicle

Signs and symptoms of ingrown hair

Here are some of the characterizations of ingrown hair:

• Itch and tenderness within the area
• There is the presence of an inflammatory reaction from a foreign body that is usually localized. This may lead to skin bumps that have a sharp red or pink color.
• Moreover, other bumps are characterized by slightly red spot or bumps with the light-red halo. This generally indicates inflammation.
• There are times that curled hair is highly noticeable within the middle of the bump.
• If there is a newly shaved area, there will be small pustules or red bumps that are typically dry and highly scattered. These bumps may generally begin from few days up to weeks subsequent to the hair removal process. And once the hair grows again, it generally gets worse.
• In case you notice pustules, it is actually a great indication of folliculitis which results from the infection with the Staphylococcus bacteria, the common bacteria of the skin.

Best Thing for Ingrown Hair Prevention

It is not only the hair in your head which can give you a bad hair day. Actually, the presence of ingrown hair in your body may basically ruin your day. So, to avoid such thing from the occurrence, below is the list of the best thing for ingrown hair prevention.

Glycolic or Lactic Acid

Like what we’ve said, one of the reasons why ingrown hair occurs is due to the blockade of the exfoliation by the dead skin cells. Generally, the process of exfoliation supports the prevention of ingrown hair occurrence through the speeding up of dead skin cells removal within the skin’s surface. The build-up of the dead skin cells basically creates that barrier to let the hair grows out.

Actually, glycolic acid is the best thing for ingrown hair as it has the ability to break the build-up of sebum and dead skin cells on the hair follicle’s opening. Meanwhile, for those who have dark skin types, the regular application of topical glycolic acid products does its job effectively. Generally, ingrown hairs on dark skin make pesky marks of pigmentation. Moreover, the glycolic acid product is the best thing for ingrown hair especially in dark skin as it acts to blur the marks over time.

Salicylic acid

Another best thing for ingrown hair prevention is salicylic acid. This product is actually popular as acne treatment substance. But, it may also do the trick in addressing the issue on ingrown hairs. The regular exfoliation will generally eradicate the build-up of dead skin cells within the skin’s surface. Moreover, the skin may also become smoother through the use of salicylic acid.

Body brush

One amazing and best thing for ingrown hair prevention is the use of dry body brush. It basically works by doing an immediate scrub prior to every shower session. This dry brushing technique will basically result to cell turnover for the purpose of lesser clogged pores to normally allow the hair to grow.

Body scrub

Generally, the body scrub is a quick fix within the shower for almost all girls out there. Moreover, this is also the best thing for ingrown hair because they will help in revealing the newer skin cells. Aside from that, they also act in stimulating the skin.

Body scrubs containing sugar is a good choice for those ingrown hairs within the thigh or bikini line. This product is actually more delicate on sensible areas compared to microbeads. Ideally, you can use this product for about once or twice a week to see a noticeable result.

Laser hair removal

Laser hair removal is actually the best thing for ingrown hair prevention especially if you’ve almost tried almost every technique in getting rid of ingrown hair. The way it works is basically different as it does not target the skin. It highly damages the root by creating a beeline for the hair follicle. Moreover, laser hair removal is one of the effective methods of getting rid of unnecessary ingrown hair in the long run.

However, it is very important to take note that taking this process may help in the increase reduction of hair and not removed permanently. Meanwhile, the whole treatment session under the laser hair removal typically works on a four-week interval. This aims to get the hair at the right phase and once any session had been missed out, ingrown hair re-growth would take place.

Hair removal cream

Initially, most people assume that the best thing for ingrown hair prevention is shaving. However, doing this may be the greatest culprit of ingrown hair growth. Basically, once you shave the hair it will eventually grow back. But, this time, the ingrown hair may typically have a sharper tip and can poke back within the skin easily.

So, to help you address this concern, you may consider using a delicate hair removal cream in line with the shaving process. Aside from that, the hair removal cream will incorporate additional slip on the skin as it guarantees that the blade doesn’t drag. Doing this can also prevent any irritation in sensitive skin areas. At the same time, in order to prevent drying of the skin, choose an alcohol-free and a formula for sensitive skin.

Best blade

Since we are already talking about shaving, another best thing for ingrown hair is the use of the best blade during the shaving process. Actually, disposable blades can dull too quickly and create uneven bumps. This will only exaggerate the growth of ingrown hair. That’s the reason why you need to invest on the best razor blades and some pairs of it so that reusing the same one would not be done over and over.

Moreover, another best thing for ingrown hair is an electrical shaver. Its advantage over the manual razor is that it doesn’t trim the hair near to the skin. Because of that, it just ensures that there would be no ingrows or re-growth that is itchy. Additionally, the electrical shaver is a good option if you want to have a completely smooth feel. It is also good if you can use aftershave creams.

Tweezer

Using a tweezer in getting of ingrown hairs is not actually the ideal method to do. But, some consider it as the best thing for ingrown hair prevention. If you have no choice but to use it, just make sure that you do the right thing properly.

Actually, the safe way to tweeze the ingrown hair is during the moment that you can see any hair. Gently pull the hair when it is fresh and close to the skin’s surface. For safety, it is better to sterilize it in the first place.

Topical and oral antibiotics

If you are already experiencing infection due to ingrown hair, then antibiotic is the best thing for ingrown hair eradication. The antibiotics may actually come in either topical or oral form. More serious cases of ingrown hair infection that already creates pustules and abscesses necessitate the need for antibiotics. Here are the common antibiotics that might be of great help to address the issue of ingrown hair.

Topical antibiotics – the best examples for this category are the Erythromycin and the Clindamycin.

Topical antibacterial – it includes Benzoyl peroxide

The two categories of antibiotics may be highly beneficial in the reduction of the growth of skin bacteria. Additionally, they are the best treatment for secondary infection.

Oral antibiotics – these include the Tetracycline or Cephalexin; they are generally indicated for controlling the infected pustules or the prevention of the abscess development.

Antibacterial washes – Benzoyl peroxide and Chlorhexidine are the best examples; they actually control the progress of infection and can be effective if used once or twice a day.

Topical cream – Eflornithine is actually a prescription cream that can be applied on the infected skin. It works by reducing the rate of hair growth through the twice a day application for about one to two months. For individuals having too much facial hair or pseudofolliculitis barbae, this topical cream is helpful for being a long-term treatment.

Fading creams

Generally, fading creams are the best thing for ingrown hair that also includes discoloration of the skin around the area. This type of product is divided into two categories – the prescribed and the over-the-counter products. Both of these fading creams support in the improvement of the residual or persistent skin discoloration.

Prescribed fading creams – Hydroquinone 4%

Over-the-counter fading creams – Kojic acid or Azelaic acid with 2% hydroquinone

The Do’s and Don’ts When It Comes to Ingrown Hair

The best thing for ingrown hair is to prevent it and making them be better in a quick manner. Here are the do’s and don’ts that you need to consider in terms of the ingrown hair:

Do’s:

• When you opt to shave the area within the ingrown hair, better to wet the skin first using warm water. Doing this may give you a duller hair with rounded edge thus decreasing the possibilities of the hair to reenter into the skin.
• Moreover, during the shaving process, do it in the direction where the hairs are growing
• As much as possible, draw just a few strokes using the razor
• After each stroke, do not forget to rinse the razor
• In order to reduce skin irritation, take a cool, wet cloth to the skin after the shaving process.
• If you are focusing on the beard area, wash it with a wet sponge, washcloth, or toothbrush with soft bristles and a bar of mild soap. Do this within several minutes through the circular motion to dislodge the unwanted edges.
• You can also apply salt and sugar, examples of mild exfoliators which are also natural in form. These can treat any redness and irritation that are in line with the ingrown hair.

Don’ts:

• Do not shave too near as creating some stubble can prevent the bacteria to get in
• Use a blunt razor is not advisable; instead, go for a new and sharp single-blade razor on each shaving session.
• Scratching and squeezing the ingrown hair is also a no-no as it can havoc your skin and may cause infection.

Final Thoughts

The best thing for ingrown hair usually comes in a wide range of products. Some of it is generally available over the market; others may be easily done at home, while few of those things can be performed with the assistance of a medical professional. Moreover, you just need to have an idea about the signs and symptoms of the ingrown hair so that you address it appropriately.

Additionally, doing some of the techniques in getting rid of the ingrown hair should be done properly. Through that, you can have smooth, flawless skin.