Solution To All Shaving Problems!

Shaving can be a integral part of your daily regimen but it brings along with it a series of skin concerns namely ingrown hair, razor burn, skin irritation and so on. However, with proper shaving technique and by using good skin care products you can make a huge difference in your shave and the way it effects your skin.

Here are some very common problems associated with shaving and ways to tackle them.

Problem: Ingrown Hair

The condition is called pseudofolliculitis. Ingrown hair is caused when hair starts growing back at an improper angle and instead of growing out of the skin follicle, it begins to coil back. The body, in turn, activates its inflammatory response and the skin becomes red and itchy. In fact, it often starts looking like a pimple.

Prevention: In order to prevent and reduce ingrown hair, you need to make sure that you shave with the grain, i.e. in the direction of the hair growth. Even if your hair grows in different directions, you need to hold the razor at an appropriate angle so that it slices of hair from the base. It is advisable to use a scrub or exfoliating cleanser before shaving. The exfoliating product would scrape off the dead skin cells and lift the hair up out of the hair follicles. This reduces the chances of them coiling back and growing inwards. Also, make sure you wash your face with a good cleaner, preferably one that contains salicylic acid which helps to flush out all toxins from the skin pores and follicles and thereby controlling ingrown hair and breakouts.

Product Suggestions:

Nia 24 Physical Cleansing Scrub
It removes dead skin cells and calms, hydrates as well as soothes the skin. It contains Pro-Niasomes that wash away visible imperfections caused by the sun and aging

Obagi Nu Derm Exfoderm Forte
This is a very unique formulation that contains alpha hydroxyl acid so as to exfoliate the dead skin cells from the skin surface. It also accelerates the absorption of treatment ingredients of the system by the skin.

iS Clinical Cleansing complex
It is an amazing cleanser by innovative skincare that resurfaces, deep cleanses the skin and is anti-acneic. It is powerful but can be used on sensitive skin and does not leave the skin dry. It also contains antioxidants to fight free radicals.

Problem: Razor Burn

Razor burns, also referred to as Irritant Contact Dermatitis, look like rashes and often lead to breakouts. If it happens very regularly it can also cause premature aging of the skin. Razor burns can be caused by a variety of reasons... if you are shaving too quickly or with too much pressure or if you are using a blunt blade or even inadequate use of shaving cream or gel.

Prevention: Always use a moisturizing shaving cream that helps prevent razor burns and hydrate the skin. Men with oily skin should consider using a shaving gel in order to prevent excessive oiliness while others may use a shaving cream. After you shave, make sure you use an after-shave lotion or moisturizing lotion that hydrates the skin and calms it.

Product Suggestions:

iS Clinical Hydra Cool Serum
It is a hydrating serum that soothes the skin and calms it. Since its anti-acneic, it also helps control breakouts. It is great for sunburn and after shaving and contains botanicals and bionutrients as well. It is also good for pre and post-procedure skin care.

NIA 24 Intensive Recovery Complex
It is a rich cream that moisturizes the skin intensely and helps activate its regenerative powers. The skin becomes firmer and toned because of the active ingredients like ceramides, liposomes and peptides within it. It locks in the multi-level moisture and minimizes transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Regular application results in fuller and firmer skin.

Thick Beards

This is one of the major problems again. Sometimes, razors are not sharp enough to cut through thick hair. Moreover, there is always risk of hair shafts clogging the skin pores. As a result the skin becomes red and itchy.

Prevention: Use a pre-shave product that helps to soften the hair and protects the skin from irritation. Make sure you don't use any high-alkaline ingredients on your skin as they may cause dryness and irritation. Also, don't forget to rinse the blade regularly while shaving.

Dr. Marilyn Syrett is a renowned physician and avid researcher of skin care cosmetics formulations. She has authored several articles about various skin conditions like acne, anti-aging and sun damage. She periodically reviews products from iS Clinical skincare line on her blog.