Whether you are shaving your face, legs or another sensitive area of skin, proper equipment and the right technique can help minimize discomfort. Besides nicks or cuts, shaving can cause ingrown hairs--when the tip of the hair grows into the skin. This can cause a raised, painful bump. Shaving over the affected area is not recommended until the ingrown hair heals. Preventing ingrown hairs is simple enough that it should become part of your regular shaving routine.
Step 1
Wet a wash cloth with warm water. Place it over the face or area to be shaved until it starts to become cool. If you are shaving your legs, soak in a warm bath or spend a few minutes in a warm shower. The heat and moisture can help soften the skin to minimize the risk of ingrown hairs.
Step 2
Apply a generous amount of shave gel, lotion, cream or oil to the skin. Use a fragrance-free product if you have sensitive skin.
Step 3
Take a new razor and apply very little pressure to the area you are shaving. Move the razor in smooth strokes, going with the hair growth.
Step 4
Rinse the razor with fresh water after each stroke. Try to go over each section of skin as few times as possible to minimize irritation.
Step 5
Rinse skin thoroughly when shaving is complete. Pat dry.
Step 6
Apply an aftershave lotion or mild skin lotion to the shaved area. Keeping the skin hydrated will make the next shave even less irritating.
Tips and Warnings
- Try an electric razor if you find that even these methods cause ingrown hairs.
Things You'll Need
- Wash cloth
- Shave gel, lotion, cream or oil
- Razor
- Aftershave lotion
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