If you’ve been struggling to get a close, smooth shave, your razor or shaving gel may be to blame. Choosing the best razors and shaving gel for men can significantly improve the way you shave and how your skin feels afterward. Razors and shaving gel that don’t align with your hair and skin needs can cause serious irritation and may result in the development of pseudofolliculitis barbae, or razor bumps, on your face. This condition is likely to worsen with the continued use of improper shaving products, which is why it’s important to find the best razor and shaving gel for you.
Not all razors are created equal. There are several types, styles, and brands of razors for men all of which perform differently depending on multiple variables such as the curvature of your face, and your hair and skin types. The two styles of shaving razors include single-edged and double-edged blades. These razor blades are available in one, two, and three-piece designs and may consist of one or more blades. Let’s take a look at these options more closely:
Single-edged (SE) blades are heavier, thicker, and typically sharper than double-edged (DE) blades. SE blades tend to be more aggressive and if used properly, can be more efficient than their DE counterparts. However, SE blades require more skill to get a close, quality shave since they function similarly to a straight razor. To accurately use this style of blade, you will need to be able to correctly angle the head in order to prevent irritation such as pseudofolliculitis barbae.
Double-edged blades are typically sharp, thin, and of standard size. DE blades are simpler to use than SE blades as the top cap helps guide the blade in the correct angle for the best shave possible. Factors that may affect the performance of your razor include the angle, blade gap, type of blade, and even the top cap geometry.
The following are the various razor designs and how they function:
Connect with our virtual physicians today to get your shaving waiver or ask for more shaving tips for men.
When it comes to selecting the best razors for men, the answer will depend on the man himself. If you’re looking for a simple, easy shave that gets the job done, then the three-piece double-edged razor will be your best option. However, if you’re looking for an even closer shave and don’t mind taking your time with the process, you may consider trying single-edged blades.
Shaving gel is essential for obtaining a smooth, clean shave. To find the best shaving gel for you, consider your skin type. There are several types of shaving gel to choose from, all of which offer different benefits. If you have sensitive skin, we recommend using a hypoallergenic formula. These typically contain fewer perfumes and often replace some of the harsh chemicals with more natural ingredients like soy. If you have dry skin, try using a moisturizing shaving gel to prevent overdrying of the skin. And, if you have oily skin, look into oil-free shaving gel products.
Once you’ve figured out your skin type, you’ll have a much easier time identifying the proper shaving gel for you.
Shaving Waivers for Men with Sensitive Skin
Having the best razor and shaving gel for men can significantly reduce skin irritation caused by shaving. However, some men have noticed that shaving, even with the correct products, still causes a flare-up to their skin. If you’re one of those men who constantly finds pseudofolliculitis barbae, or razor bumps, on their face, but have to keep shaving due to work or other obligations, a shaving waiver may be just what you need to get your skin back to normal.
Connect with our virtual physicians today to get your shaving waiver or ask for more shaving tips for men.
Improper shaving methods can lead to serious skin irritations like pseudofolliculitis barbae, more commonly called razor bumps. Many men know the feeling of razor burn on their faces and can attest that it’s extremely uncomfortable, especially during a time where masks are being worn consistently. If you’re wondering how to prevent razor burn and obtain a smooth, clean shave each time, take a look at some of our recommended best shaving techniques for men below.
There are some myths out there surrounding the best ways to prevent razor burn, one of which claims that shaving more frequently is the key. This, unfortunately, isn’t true. While shaving often isn’t a problem, constantly shaving incorrectly will only worsen your symptoms.
The key to preventing pseudofolliculitis barbae, or razor bumps, is to practice proper shaving techniques. There are many ways you can go about shaving your face, but the most efficient is the wet shave method:
Step 1: Exfoliate/Cleanse
Be sure to wash and exfoliate your skin prior to shaving. Razor bumps form from hair follicles that get trapped under layers of skin. Applying a gentle exfoliant and cleanser before shaving will help remove the dead skin cells sitting on your face to limit razor burn.
Step 2: Apply Shaving Gel
Many men assume that shaving gel is unnecessary, but it isn’t if you want a smooth shave. Shaving gel will hydrate the skin and hairs allowing your razor to glide right over the area.
Step 3: Shave in the Direction of Hair Growth
The direction in which you shave and the sharpness of the blade also affects your chances of developing razor bumps. In order to prevent skin irritation caused by shaving, use a fresh, sharp blade each time you shave. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to replace your razor after each use. Proper razor maintenance can help prolong the life of your blades for continued use.
While shaving, remember to guide your razor in the direction that your hair naturally grows. This will limit the damage to your skin that is often caused by pulling and tugging at hair follicles.
Step 4: Rinse Your Blades
Rinsing your razor blades in between each stroke will significantly improve the quality of your shave. Leaving built-up shaving gel and hair in your razor won’t allow for a clean shave. Because of this, it’s important to rinse your blades in between swipes.
Step 5: Apply a Moisturizer
Aftercare is extremely important in preventing razor bumps from forming. We recommend washing your face after shaving with cool water, pat to dry, and apply a face moisturizer.
Step 6: Dry and Store Your Razor
Take care of your razor to ensure it continues to function efficiently. Be sure to store your razor away where it will remain dry to prevent rust and keep it in a safe place.
Shaving properly can help reduce skin irritation and improve razor burn symptoms, but this doesn’t always prevent pseudofolliculitis barbae from being an issue. Shaving less often typically alleviates some of the issues caused by razor bumps, but some professions require men to shave quite frequently. Complying with specific job requirements such as this may be difficult for some men. In this instance, the man would require a shaving waiver from a medical professional licensed in their state, recommending that they reduce the frequency in which they shave.
