Personal hygiene is an important aspect of healthy living. Regardless of gender, everyone has to address the basics: Bathing, hair care, and teeth cleaning.
While a large percentage of personal hygiene products are marketed toward women, there’s a grooming cross that only men typically have to bear: Facial hair. No-shave November might be an excuse to let that beard grow in, but many men prefer to keep it clean – in fact, for some men, it’s a job requirement.
“Being clean-shaven can be a real challenge for many men,” said Dr. Holly Gunn, a dermatologist with St. Elizabeth Physicians. “Razor bumps, burns and nicks can wreck that smooth, dewy appearance.”
Here are some grooming tips from Gunn to save your face from shaving-related skin problems:
- Moisture makes for a smoother shave. “Before you shave, wet your skin and hair to soften it,” Gunn advised. “Taking a shower or bath is a great way to soften your hair.”
- In fact, just use moisturizer. Dry skin is more susceptible to razor burn, but a lot of the men Gunn provides care for don’t see using moisturizer as a masculine thing to do. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Using moisturizer is just common sense and a key to healthy, vibrant skin, Gunn said. “To maintain your skin, a daily facial moisturizer with sunscreen, antioxidants and retinol can do this for you,” she explained. “Neutrogena Men’s Age Fighter is just one example. There are numerous brands like Turo, Club Men, and Men’s Shaving Club that make these types of all-inclusive moisturizers.”
- Stay sharp. Disposable razors are usually good for between five and seven shaves before the blades begin to dull. Sharper blades require less pressure, which decreases the risk of razor burn and nicks, Gunn said.
- Go with the grain. Shaving against the direction the hair increases the chances of irritation. Gunn suggests using a see-through oil instead of opaque shaving cream, as it allows men to shave in the direction the hair grows.
- Keep touching bumps and abrasions to a minimum. While shaving, acne bumps should be avoided. “Probably one of the worst habits I see in all patients is picking, popping, and scratching at bumps on the skin,” Gunn said. “That can lead to infections, pain and even scarring.
“My best advice is to get away from the mirror and let your body heal. If you have a bump or pimple that bothers you and is not going away, see a dermatologist for treatment options.”
