Dr. Sravya C. Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist & Trichologist, Manipal Hospital, Bangalore, has taken it upon herself to educate the naivety out of us — within minutes. A proponent of shaving, she talks to us about myths associated with the hair-removal procedure of shaving, and why they hold no logic whatsoever. This is her demystifying long-held beliefs about shaving, and sharing with us shaving-related tips to make the process as hassle-free as possible. Read on to learn how to shave your face safely and effectively.
This Expert Is Determined To Bust Shaving-Related Myths Today…
Myth 1: Hair Grows Back Thicker, Darker, And Faster After Shaving.
Fact: This is probably the most common misconception associated with shaving. The growth, thickness, and colour of your hair are controlled by genes — not by how often you shave.
This myth likely originates from the fact that the first bit of hair that grows back post shaving is healthier than the hair that was removed. This plays into the illusion of thicker, darker hair. What’s more is — when you shave, you’re left with blunt ends that can look thicker and darker than before.
Myth 2: Shaving Makes Your Skin Dry, Flaky
Fact: If you’re rough with your skin when you’re shaving — by going over the same area with your razor repeatedly for instance — you might find yourself dealing with dry, flaky skin, and what feels like a scratchy, uncomfortable beard. The good news, however, is that this doesn’t have anything to do with shaving per se — it’s just the outcome of a poor technique of shaving, and can be corrected.
Myth 3: Shaving Is Damaging To Your Skin
Fact: Not necessarily. But when your razor is not well-designed, or when it is old and dull, the blades can indeed damage, and even cut the skin. This will lead to signs of irritation such as redness, nicks, cuts, and your skin feeling itchy, hot, and painful.
A good-quality and well-designed razor will minimise the risk of irritation, and will ensure that the skin is optimally protected from the blades. The risk can further be reduced by the right technique: make sure you’re using plenty of shave prep, and not pressing too hard on the razor but stroking lightly instead.
Myth 4: The Direction You Shave In Doesn’t Matter
Fact: Shaving downward, or in the direction of the grain, is the best way to minimise irritation. You can shave up to get the closest shave — but do it infrequently and gently. Using your tongue does actually help you get a closer shave. It helps you get the hard-to-reach places around your mouth.
Myth 5: Soap & Shaving Cream Work The Same
Fact: The latter is better as it reduces irritation, and allows for a cleaner shave. Try shaving in the shower — or in a steamy bathroom. This helps reduce irritation, and facilitates extra exfoliation.
Dr. Sravya leaves us with a no-effort tip that’ll ensure a close and effective shave, “At the beginning of the shower, use a cleanser on all the areas that you‘re going to shave — the cleanser will strip the oils off the hairs. Those hairs can, then, be penetrated by and softened by the moisture in the shower. Make sure to moisturise when you’re done.”
You Can Use This To Start Off…
Sirona Blink & Glow Face Razor for Women – 3 Razors
This product is well-endowed with everything you’d want out of a razor. The blade of the razor has a fine tooth protective guard net that minimises cuts and scrapes, and the handle is an anti-slip grip handle that is composed of biodegradable materials (wheat, straw, and ABS plastic), and curved for a better grip. While threading is particularly excruciating as a procedure, this option is pain-free, and you can use it multiple times — truly redeeming its value. Just make sure you’re cleaning it after every use, and slipping its protective cap back on to prevent hurting yourself.
Additionally, don’t forget to use an post-shave gel to soothe your skin once you are done shaving it!
Featured Image: Sirona