Though some may feel that facial hair shaving is convenient for smooth makeup application and getting rid of the peach fuzz, facial hair shaving can affect the upcoming years! From personal experience, when I shaved my facial hair as an instant solution, I realised that though my skin was clear for the first initial days, I wasn’t aware of the issues and complications I would face within a week.
My clear skin was all gone and the constant itching occurred for a week. The bumps on my face were more than the speed breakers on the airport road. The acne breakout lasted for almost 2 years. Our family dermatologist said that I would need to avoid every facial razor; face wash and skin care product for the coming years as the shaving cost my face a fortune of complications. I realise what mistake I had made due to less exposure and information about facial shaving
After finding out that getting thick hair after shaving was due to genetics, it helped me overcome my prejudice about facial shaving.
What To Expect When Facial Shaving?
You may notice that your skin looks brighter immediately after you’re finished shaving your face, but it often takes a few days for the redness and inflammation to subside, if any. Also, the results of it aren’t long-lasting. Facial shaving claims to clear up to three weeks’ worth of dead skin cells. Also, the hair grows back faster as it’s not removed from its root. A pro tip: Don’t forget to wear sunscreen as the skin is sensitive to the sun and harsh rays after shaving.
Here’s What I Learned From My Mistakes: What Not To Do While Facial Shaving
1. One should not use regular razors designed to remove hair on underarms or legs. Many multi-blade razors shave under the skin, causing ingrown hairs and infections when pressed too hard. Use a razor that is specifically designed to shave peachy fuzz and facial hair.
2. Most razors are made for one-time shaving purposes only. Thus, you should throw them away.
3. Do not wash your face with soap or other harsh cleansers right after shaving. Wait at least 15 to 20 minutes before doing your skincare routine.
4. Avoid using makeup, just after shaving. If needed, wait for a few hours before you apply makeup.
5. Ensure that the moisturiser that you use is alcohol-free.
Tips To Keep In Mind
1. Shave your face in the same direction as the hair growth.
2. Rinse the razor after every stroke.
3. Use a wet cotton cloth to clean your face.
4. It is also recommended to apply moisturiser to your face after shaving your facial hair as shaving can dry out and irritate the skin. Use the correct skincare routines after facial shaving meant for your skin type.
5. The best time to shave is after a shower, as your skin is warm, moist, and free of dirt and dead skin cells that can get stuck in the razor.
Let’s Hear From The Experts!
Dr Sravya C Tipirneni, a Consultant Dermatologist and Cosmetologist at Bangalore’s Manipal Hospitals, reveals, “If shaving is done improperly and in the wrong directions it gives breakouts. Like shaving on dry skin or dry shaving without shaving cream or soapy water. Or shaving against the direction of hair growth.” She also revealed that one of the most prominent adverse reactions to facial shaving is Folliculitis, a common disorder of the hair follicle when non-sterile instruments are used or aftercare doesn’t involve cleansing out. It leads to bacterial and sometimes viral infections as well. But let’s get the most common concern answered: will facial shaving make your hair thicker? “This is a myth. The thickness and amount of hair are solely determined by genetics and the hair does not grow thicker by shaving,” elaborates Dr Sravya.
A dermatologist may also recommend professional treatments, depending on your history of skin sensitivities, adverse reactions, or pigmentation changes. When in doubt about any hair removal treatment method, it’s best to first talk with a professional.
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