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What does shaving do to hair?

Hair normally has a tapered tip. Shaving removes this tip from the hair shaft so growing hairs feel bristly.

As the sharp hair tip now begins to regrow, there is a risk of ingrown hair if it penetrates the skin surrounding the follicle. Inflammation and irritation can result.

See article on Ingrown Hair for ways to minimize the risk.

Blade Shave

What are the pros and cons of wet shaving?

PROS: Quick, inexpensive, an especially close shave, refreshing and reinvigorates the skin with use of shaving lotions.

CONS: Stubble reappears quickly, risk of cuts and nicks to the skin, risk of ingrown hair if blade is not sharp.

What should I look for in choosing a razor?

Some razors such as Schick and Wilkinson-Sword, have comfort or lubricating strips near the cap above the blades. Some contain aloe and are made from water soluble polymer or PVP which allows for a smooth glide over the skin reducing friction.

Twin blades allow for a very close shave and many come with flexible heads allowing the razor to follow the contours of the body.

Look for razors with safety guard wires over the blades to minimize the risk of cuts and nicks and skin irritation.

Blades with a platinum chrome finish maintain their sharpness.

Which is the best shaving direction - with the hair growth or against it?

Shaving in the same direction as the hair growth is the most comfortable. Shaving against the hair growth certainly gives a much closer shave. Many use a combination of both.

Many dermatologists warn however that shaving against the hair growth can cause ingrown hair and irritation and it can make the skin sore and sensitive.

What are razor bumps?

Sometimes hair curls round and enters the skin at another place. This causes irritation, inflammation, skin eruption and pain. As the hair continues to grow, thick scar tissue can develop around the area. This effect has been called "razor bump."

For more information on razor bumps click here

How many times can I use one blade?

This depends greatly on the individual and the thickness or coarseness of the hair. Some prefer to change a blade after shaving once or twice, others after 3 or 4 times while many expect between 5 to 7 uses.

The key is to change it regularly and always use a sharp blade. If you feel it dragging on your skin it's time to change it!

Electric Shave

What are the pros and cons of electric shaving?

PROS:

Quick

Inexpensive

Rechargeable shavers can be taken anywhere making them very convenient

Not so harsh on the skin as a blade as a layer of skin is not removed each time

CONS:

Stubble reappears quickly

Some say electric shaving does not give as close a shave as a blade

others say they can depending on the type of shaver

Risk of skin irritation if shaver is used repeatedly over the same area or if the shaver is not kept clean

What should I look for when choosing an electric shaver?

The more blades passing over the skin per stroke means a faster and smoother shave and less irritation or razor burn for sensitive skin.

So depending on the density of hair growth, select either a single, double or triple head shaver.

Some electric shavers are dry shavers so no gels or lotions are needed in preparation. A preshave lotion is recommended though by many.

Others are wet shavers requiring gels or lotions to be applied first and some other shavers can be used either wet or dry.

Why is an adjustment period needed when changing shavers?

Two or three weeks may be needed before good results are seen as the skin needs to adjust to a new shaver. At least three weeks are needed if changing from a blade.

Every time a blade is used, a tiny layer of skin is removed. The body produces replacement scar tissue. An electric shaver does not cause the body to do this. So two or three weeks are needed for the skin to adjust.

Therefore when changing from blade to electric, or even from one electric shaver to another, persevere at least for a couple of weeks before making a final decision as to whether you want to continue.

How often should I change the heads?

Most manufacturers recommend new heads after one year. Some can go for 18 months or even two years. As soon as you feel drag on the skin, change them!