Whether you have a full beard or usually opt for a clean-shaven look, a proper shave is a must. If you’ve ever had a rash from shaving or your facial hair just doesn’t look the way you want it to, you'll definitely want to read on! These tips for facial hair removal will help you achieve a more comfortable shave and a better-looking beard, mustache or bare face.
Prep Your Skin
A good, thorough cleansing softens facial hair and helps prevent ingrown hairs. Washing your face in a steamy shower softens the outer layers of skin, making it easier to exfoliate. Beneficial ingredients in cleansers and other skincare products are more easily absorbed, giving you more bang for your buck and healthier skin to boot! Or opt for a paraben- and sulfate-free beard cleanser like our eucalyptus- and lemongrass-scented beard wash, pictured below. A quality pre-shave oil softens hair, skin, and hair follicles for an itch-free shave and no razor burn. Shaving oil made from essential oils and other all-natural ingredients means fewer irritants and no worries about what your skin is absorbing. As a bonus, you can use it as an after-shave, too.
Switch to a Single-Blade Razor
It might seem like multi-blade razors have an edge over single-blade options. In theory, all those blades working in tandem would make it easier to remove facial hair. But many dermatologists and hair removal experts have begun recommending single-blade razors. Razors with multiple blades pull hairs up and cut them just below the surface. While this action can give you smoother skin, it can also cause ingrown hairs to develop. Since hairs are cut below the surface, they may grow sideways instead of emerging from below the skin -- especially if you tend to pull your skin taut when shaving. You’ll also experience fewer bumps and less redness with a single-blade razor.
Go With the Grain
Shave with the grain to avoid razor bumps. Generally speaking, this means moving the razor downward on your face and upward on your neck. However, you can tell whether you’re shaving with the grain or against it by feeling any stubble on your face. Rough stubble indicates that you’re going against the grain; smooth stubble is a sign that you’re on the right track. Longer strokes usually provide a smoother shave, but you may need shorter strokes beneath the nostrils and in other hard-to-reach areas.
After You Shave
After rinsing with cool water, dry your face gently to prevent irritation. Use a fresh, clean towel every time to avoid making contact with bacteria and germs. Use an aftershave that doesn't just smell great but benefits your skin as well. Choose a natural option that soothes, moisturizes, hydrates and provides anti-aging benefits like our Pre-Shave Oil from The Henna Guys. It can also be used as a daily beard conditioning oil to combat frizz and prevent itchiness.
How to Get Rid of Ingrown Hairs
This condition can make shaving a real chore, but getting rid of ingrown hairs isn’t as difficult as you might think. In fact, resisting the urge to pluck or pick at them may be the hardest part! Instead, try making a compress by soaking a washcloth in a mixture of 10 drops of tea tree oil and four to six ounces of warm water. The compress will soothe the area, dislodge any oil or debris blocking the hair, and decrease inflammation. Next, remove dead skin cells and oil buildup with a gentle exfoliant. Our Jojoba Bead Exfoliator Creme won’t scratch delicate skin but clears the way for ingrown hairs to emerge. Make an appointment with your dermatologist to tackle any stubborn remainders.
Knowing how to properly cleanse, condition and shave can make the process more enjoyable. Once you see the results, you'll want to keep up the good work. And if your face feels more comfortable, you might actually look forward to shaving. Even if you still dread the task, at least you'll look great!