Shaving is a popular, efficient and cost-effective way to get rid of unwanted hair, according to HairFacts.Com consumer website. When you shave, your results are only fleeting, because shaving removes hair superficially. Many myths are attached to shaving, such as that it makes your hair grow back denser, thicker and quicker. However, there's one truth about shaving: It can be very irritating to your skin, especially when done incorrectly.
Depilitating Hair
There are two types of temporary hair removal, epilation, which removes the entire hair follicle from under the skin; and depilation, which involves removing the part of the hair that sticks out of the epidermis, but not the entire follicle itself. When you shave, you use a sharp blade to crop off the hair at the point where it meets your skin. Cream depilatories achieve the same purpose by chemically dissolving unwanted hair growth. Because waxing, sugaring and plucking--all forms of epilation--take out the entire hair follicle, regrowth is considerably slower.
About Shaving
According to HairFacts.Com, when you shave, your hair may not grow back for a few days, but it could also be a few hours before you notice stubble. The Cleveland Clinic notes that the rate of your hair growth will determine how frequently you need to shave, and it's different for each person. Shaving works best on the legs and arms and for men, the face. Although many women shave the bikini line, this method of hair removal is typically associated with ingrown hairs.
Shaving Tools
Which razor type you use is largely a matter of personal preference and what seems to work best for you. Disposable plastic razors are designed for use until the blade dulls, at which point they can be thrown away, states HairFacts. Shaving systems are more durable and have permanent handles with removable razor cartridges. Razors can be single-blade or multi-bladed.
Razor Bumps and Ingrown Hairs
There are inherent problems associated with shaving, says skincare expert Paula Begoun. When hair grows back out, the stubble can be unsightly and uncomfortable. Shaving is also closely associated with razor bumps and ingrown hairs. After you shave the hair follicle, the tip of the hair becomes sharp. When it grows back, it curls around and re-enters the follicle. Razor bumps and ingrown hairs are a particular hazard when shaving around the bikini line, Begoun says.
Avoiding Shaving Pitfalls
For a safe shave, shave hair only when it's wet, advises the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Shaving in the direction of the hair growth probably won't give you a close shave, but you'll reduce your chances of getting nicks, cuts and other types of irritation. To give the razor traction, apply a lubricated shaving gel to your skin. Begoun states that even hair conditioner is a sufficient emollient. Make sure that the razor you use is sharp and clean.
Other Shaving Facts
According to the FDA, shaving won't alter your hair. It won't grow back coarser, thicker or darker. Begoun points out that how your hair grows is determined by your genes; nothing you can do to it topically will affect it.
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