FOCUS ON: MEN & SHAVING

PROPER SHAVING TECHNIQUES FOR MEN
(Information provided by the International Dermal Institute)

Shaving is actually a form of mechanical exfoliation which in some cases leads to over-exfoliation and an impaired barrier function of the skin.  The result can be irritation, redness, dehydration, flaking, cracking and a sensitized skin condition.  Razor burn, ingrown hairs and razor bumps can easily occur if shaving is done improperly.  Continued irritation and inflammation eventually results in premature aging of the skin.

Razor burn occurs when the skin is shaved incorrectly and results in burning, stinging, irritation, and redness.

Common shaving errors include:

• shaving too closely or too quickly
• using a dull blade
• not rinsing the blade often enough between shaving strokes
• shaving against the grain
• dry shaving or not using enough lubrication between skin and razor
• shaving over already irritated or sensitized areas.

Razor burn can cause mild discomfort or it can be more severe, lasting for days, and ending in infected breakouts or blisters.

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is the condition of ingrown hairs and razor bumps.  As the hair grows back it may grow at an improper angle under the skin or it may coil back into the follicle, or even grow into an adjoining follicle.  This ingrown hair causes an inflammatory response – hence the redness, itchiness, and raised area that resembles a pimple.

Another concern is the tough, heavy beard which is more challenging to shave, as the hair shaft more frequently clogs the razor, or the razor is not sharp enough, causing painful scraping and tugging.  Men with heavier beards are more likely to suffer from itching, stinging, redness, or nicks and cuts.

Dermalogica’s Shave System combined with proper shaving techniques can alleviate these problems while delivering a closer, more comfortable shave.

To create a better shaving experience using Dermalogica’s SHAVE System:
Shave after showering to pre-soften the skin. Avoid soaps and other alkaline shave products which can dry the skin. 

Pre-Shave: Prep the face and neck (or head) with Daily Clean Scrub to lift the hairs and clear the way for a closer, cleaner shave

Shave: For sensitive skin first apply a layer of Pre-Shave Guard to soften hairs and provide extra protection.  Follow this with a layer of Soothing Shave Cream to ultra-lubricate, calm, soothe, and prevent irritation while shaving
For oily skin, Invigorating Shave Gel gives a barber-close shave with a clear gel ideal for grooming around a goatee or sideburns. Close Shave Oil is great for head shavers or those who prefer maximum visibility when shaving

Shave with the grain, (the direction the hair grows) not against it, using a sharp, clean razor.  If you must shave against the grain (for heavy, tough beards), do so after first shaving with the grain, and reapply your shaving products before this second shave

Rinse the blade(s) clean before each new stroke for a closer more comfortable shave

Avoid after-shave products that contain alcohol, as these cause stinging and irritation, undermining the barrier function of the skin

Post-Shave: After shaving, apply Post-Shave Balm to cool, soothe, and prevent ingrown hairs. 

Apply Dermalogica’s Daily Defense Block SPF15 every day, regardless of how often you shave, to block cancer-causing UV rays that also cause skin to age faster

Use minimal pressure in your shaving strokes.  Heavier pressure causes more irritation and if your blade is sharp enough, pressure isn’t necessary.

Use a steady, constant motion, making each shave stroke 1 to 2 inches long.

For those with light beards who shave with an electric razor, use Daily Clean Scrub for your Pre-Shave, and Post Shave Balm, followed by Daily Defense Block SPF15 for your Post-Shave regimen.

Visit www.dermalogica.com for detailed information on their new Shave system.