Aftershave is one of the most essential steps in a man’s grooming routine. Not only does it help to protect the skin from razor burn, but it also provides a refreshing scent that can last all day long.
However, aftershave can also be a major cause of ingrown hair. When applied to freshly shaved skin, aftershave can irritate the hair follicles and cause them to become inflamed. As a result, the hair may grow back into the skin instead of out of it.
Many men experience these issues, and they can be frustrating and embarrassing. Fortunately, you can do a few things to help avoid them.
Keep reading to learn how to avoid aftershave ingrown hair to keep your face looking its best.
Exfoliate your skin before shaving
Before you shave, it’s important to exfoliate your skin. This will help to remove any dead skin cells that could clog your razor and cause ingrown hairs. We suggest using a loofah or a gentle exfoliating scrub.
There are a few different ways to exfoliate your skin before shaving. One option is to use a sugar scrub. Simply wet your face with warm water and massage the sugar scrub into your skin using circular motions.
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Another option is to use an electric face brush. These brushes typically have soft bristles that are safe to use on the face—wet your face and scrub in gentle, circular motions. Once you’ve exfoliated, make sure to rinse off your skin thoroughly.
Shave in the direction of hair growth
One of the most common shaving problems men encounter is ingrown hair. This occurs when the sharp edge of the hair follicle grows back into the skin, causing irritation, redness, and bumps.
In extreme cases, ingrown hair can lead to infection. Several factors can contribute to ingrown hair, including tight clothing, dead skin cells, and improper shaving technique.
One of the best ways to avoid ingrown hair is to shave in the direction of hair growth.
To know the direction of hair growth, for example, when shaving your beard, the easiest way is to wait until your beard is about a week old and then feel for the direction of the hair.
Once you’ve located the grain, you can start shaving in that direction. Another method is to take a hot shower before shaving. The steam will help to soften your hair and make it easier to see which way it’s growing.
This helps to reduce irritation and ensures that the hair follicle is cut cleanly.
Use a sharp razor blade and avoid pressing too hard
One way to avoid ingrown hairs is to use a sharp razor blade. A sharp blade will provide a close shave without damaging the hair follicle. In addition, it is important to avoid pressing down too hard when shaving.
This can irritate your skin and lead to ingrown hairs. If you do get ingrown hair, don’t try to shave it away. This will only make the problem worse. Instead, use a warm compress to help soothe the area and allow the hair to grow.
Apply a moisturizing aftershave balm
After a close shave, your skin is especially vulnerable to irritation. To avoid aftershave ingrown hair, it’s essential to choose an aftershave balm that will moisturize your skin while also protecting it from razor burn.
Look for a balm with natural ingredients like shea butter and cocoa butter, which are known for their hydrating properties. It would help if you also avoided aftershaves with alcohol, which can dry your skin and lead to irritation.
Related: How To Get A Clean Shave Without Getting Cut
Apply the balm immediately after shaving while your skin is still damp for the best results. Gently massage it into your skin in a circular motion, allowing it to absorb for a few minutes before rinsing it off.
Rinse your face with cold water after shaving
Rinsing your face with cold water after shaving is a must for men who wants to avoid aftershave ingrown hair. Hot water dilates your pores and can irritate them, making it easier for dirt and bacteria to become trapped beneath the skin.
On the other hand, cold water constricts pores and helps to soothe the skin. It also promotes healing and can help to reduce inflammation.
Cold water can help close up any nicks or cuts you may have made while shaving, reducing your risk of developing ingrown hair.
It is also important to avoid using harsh soaps or other products that can irritate the skin.
FAQ:
Does aftershave prevent ingrown hairs?
Aftershave can help to soothe the skin and close pores, which may help to prevent ingrown hairs. However, it’s important to choose an aftershave that is suitable for your skin type.
Alcohol-based aftershaves can be particularly drying, so if you have sensitive skin, it’s best to avoid them.
There are also aftershaves on the market that contain glycolic acid or salicylic acid, which can help to exfoliate the skin and prevent ingrown hairs.
Should you pull ingrown beard hairs?
Pulling out an ingrown hair can do more harm than good. First of all, it can be incredibly painful. Second, it can cause more inflammation and irritation, leading to more redness and swelling. Third, it can leave behind a small wound susceptible to infection.
Instead, try using a moistened warm compress to soften the skin and help the hair escape. If the hair doesn’t come out on its own, see a dermatologist for help.
Is it healthier to be clean-shaven?
Each side has its advantages and disadvantages, but there is one clear winner when it comes to health. Beards may be trendy, but they are also breeding grounds for bacteria.
A study by the University of Southern Queensland found that beards harbor up to 100 times more bacteria than a clean-shaven face. The study also found that beards can transfer bacteria to the face, increasing the risk of infection.
In contrast, clean-shaven men have fewer bacteria on their skin, making them less susceptible to infection. So if you’re looking for a healthier option, it’s time to reach for the razor.
How do I stop getting ingrown hairs?
Unsurprisingly, people are always looking for ways to prevent them. One of the most common pieces of advice is to shave daily.
The logic is that by shaving often, you’ll avoid allowing the hair to grow long enough to curl back into the skin.
And while this may work for some people, it’s important to remember that everyone’s hair is different.
Some people can shave daily without problems, while others find that it only leads to more ingrown hairs. The best way to figure out what works for you is to experiment and see what gives you the best results.
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