It’s another working week, no time to waste. You have just few hours to give yourself a nice shave before Monday walks in…and this time don’t do razor rash, nicks and cuts! Here’s how to avoid the common shaving mistakes guys all make…[via Cosmo]
1. Being heavy-handed with a new razor
It’s obvious, but how often do you approach a new razor with caution? The blades on your new razor will be much sharper than the ones you just threw away. Use extra-slow strokes when shaving with new razors and be especially careful around less fleshy areas like the knees and ankles.
2. Not knowing when your razor needs replacing
When the blades on your razor look dull, it’s time to swap to a new one. After too long they will be a) blunt and b) brewing bacteria. Count about 10 uses as a rough guide.
3. Sharing your razor
Yes, people do it, but it’s totally unhygienic – especially if it’s been used for the hair ‘down there’ or the blades have caused cuts. Certain razors may not be suited to what you’re shaving – if it’s a boy’s beard razor, for example, it may have a different ergonomic design leaving you more susceptible to nicking your legs.
4. Shaving straight away
When you’re in the shower, it’s best to leave the shaving part to last. Why? After 2-3 minutes the warm water will have had time to soften the hair and open the follicles ensuring an easier and closer shave.
5. Forgetting to exfoliate
Regular exfoliation encourages the hairs to grow back through properly, which in turn minimises the chances of getting in-growers. Exfoliate in-between shaves, once to twice a week.
6. Dry shaving in a rush
We’ve all been there but it’s a serious skin sin. You need lubrication to avoid razor burn and shaving rash, so never do it dry.
7. Using soap
But don’t just reach for the soap – it won’t provide enough slip and it can clog up the blades. Hair conditioner is a good alternative to shaving creams and oils which are the best buys for the job.
8. Not rinsing the blades between strokes
After every few strokes make sure you rinse the razor through with warm water. This way they won’t get clogged up, causing you to applying more pressure which can end in tears.
9. Using an electric shaver
Razors with old school blades will get a closer shave and help shed dead skin which minimises the chances of ingrown hairs. Electric shavers with rotating blades can have the reverse effect by flattening hairs, so they won’t grow through properly.
10. Over-shaving your armpits
Apparently women shave each armpit with an average of 10 strokes – much more than we realise! This can leave the skin dry and sore, so only shave when and where necessary.
You read this before shaving, it worked right? Yeah, I told you the mistakes can be avoided. Do have a pleasant week!
