IMPORTANT
Always patch test any new products or techniques before use to minimise any potential adverse reactions.
This is perhaps the most obvious method for hair removal but is not without it’s limitations. It is often described by dermatologists as the most common cause of skin irritation, so proper technique and the right products are crucial to getting good results. Additionally, teaching yourself how to use specific makeup techniques to cover any remaining stubble can be a great asset in your wake-up routine.
The Right Product
Let’s Talk About Razors
There’s so many products out there! After testosterone exposure facial hair can become very thick and strong, like wire. This stark difference in strength and texture makes choosing the right razor for the right part of you body especially important.
For Legs, Arms & Body
Whether you like the disposable type of the ones with interchangeable heads it doesn't really matter - a good, wide headed razor from a trusted brand will be a decent place to start. The ones with multiple, parallel blades helps to spread out the pressure over a larger area can reduce some of the irritation, with the additional benefit that you don't have to be *as* careful for those long, sweeping motions on your legs. (obviously still be careful. It is a razor)
For The Face
The razors mentioned above will still work okay, but be sure to get one that's a little slimmer on the head so you can manoeuvre it around those tight spaces near the nose. A good alternative for your face are butterfly razors. **You will need to be more careful with these:** it will be easier to cut or scrape yourself with them, particularly if you don't seat the blade in right - but they are very good at cutting thick and wiry hair, even in tight corners. Some have a dial on the end of the handle (as pictured) that lets you open up the blade holster with the flick of a wrist so you wash out any buildup of hair as you go.
Be sure to use a product which you are confident in using safely.
Some people swear by cut-throat razors for that ultra clean feeling and control. If that’s you then that’s great - it’s just hard to recommend this type of razor to the masses (especially beginners!) because of the risks they carry.
A Bit About Lubrication
Some people actually prefer to shave completely dry - it does have some benefits: hair is less likely to clog the razor and you don’t have to worry about sensitivity to certain products. That being said, most of the time a wet shave will produce a superior result and with less irritation. Not only that but many shaving gels have anti-inflammatory additives for a more lasting, calming effect. You will likely need to try a few products (or none at all!) to know what works best for your skin type.
IMPORTANT
Always patch test any new products before use to minimise any potential adverse reactions.
Shaving Foams *Sometimes marketed as a gel - yes, that’s misleading.
These will normally come in a aerosol, either foaming right out of the nozzle or starting as a gel that whips up into a foam when you stir it. These often have an anti-inflammatory agent added in, and also have the benefit of showing where you have shaved very clearly: everywhere the razor goes, it drags the foam away to show (hopefully!) smooth, clear skin underneath.
Non-Foaming Shaving Gels
With an appearance closer to Aloe Vera gel, these can be a thinner product than their foaming counterpart that you just smooth straight onto your skin. Being that bit thinner, they may not clog your razor as readily. It’s also possible to make a non-foaming shave gel at home that is very close to the shop bought versions - a quick search online for recipes should show you plenty.
Shaving Oils
In terms of feel these will be similar to the non-foaming shave gels, but with a very different texture. You use them in just the same way, but being an oil they can be particularly good for anyone that suffers from dry skin.
For gels and foams, you’ll probably have a much nicer time with one of these:
A shaving brush and bowl.
Proper Technique
IMPORTANT
Always press lightly when shaving. The action should be more like gently gliding the razor across your skin and not trying to scrape the hair off.
Pressing Too Hard While Shaving
This can’t be emphasised enough - pressing too hard while shaving is a huge source of irritation. It forces your skin to bulge out around the pressure of the blade(s) and therefore raking it tightly over your skin as you work. This puts up the risk of cutting yourself, driving the already cut snubs or hair back into your skin making it more likely to form hair splinters. If you’re finding you need to press harder to get your razor to cut, then stop - it’s time to replace or sharpen your razor.
Razor burn or “chicken skin” - those red, irritated bumps that pop up over your skin can very often be caused by this.
The Key To A Good Shave
Wash your skin in warm water before shaving. Right after a good hot shower is great.
Gather up whatever kit you want to use and fill up a basin with warm water (or make sure you have access to running water if you can’t).
If you’re using lube, use plenty of it. A brush and bowl to whip up foams is great if you have one but if not, just smooth your lube of choice onto your skin. Some products dry out in the air and become less effective so you might have better luck, applying lube and shaving in smaller sections. If it ever feels like it’s sticking, just add on a bit more.
Lightly pass the razor over your skin in long fluid strokes (aside from around the nose or any problem moles where you need to be more careful). Keep your razor sharp! A blunt razor makes you more likely to press too hard and forces you to take multiple passes to get a good result, where one would normally have been fine.
Rinse and unclog your razor regularly. Multi-bladed razors clog easily, so for these a nail brush that you don’t care about too much can be good to unblock it. Just run the razor back and forth sideways along the bristles to really work out any ingrained stubble - and mind your fingers!
Use your sense of touch as much as your sight. When shaving your face, if you palpate your skin and really feel around your features you will be able to sense any areas where the stubble is a bit longer and go in for another pass.
Once you’ve shaved everything you need to, now is a great time to continue your regular skincare routine. Pat off any excess products with a towel, use any skincare products you know you need and rinse off with cold water.
Moisturise! Shaving can be strenuous for your skin - using a good moisturiser (and ideally sun-block) will be a big help.
Potential Problems
Shaved areas can:
Regrow rapidly
Still have visible stubble
Be irritated
Get cut or hair splintered
In Closing
You’ll probably have to experiment a bit to find what’s right for you. Hopefully it goes without saying that with such a huge wealth of products out there, if you find a particular one that works well with your skin type, hair type, comfort level - you go for it. Just make an effort to look after yourself, be careful and have fun!
