Shaving Help, razor burns and cutting myself

[jambaugh]

My "two bits". I have finer hair which makes shaving easier with a blade, and rougher with an electric razor (tends to pull instead of cut). You may try electric if you have thicker hair, but you must be meticulous about keeping it cleaned.

If I haven't shaved in a few days or haven't softened up the stubble in the shower I find shaving with the grain works best on the first cut, and then I go over it again against the grain to get a closer shave. (skip the closer shave if you have issue with bumps??)

Soften face with warm water but then splash on cold water and shave with cold water. That will tighten the face and make the hairs stand out more. (but may aggravate bumps, I don't know, try it and see.)

Try shaving with plain soap with no additives (ivory). When done rinse thoroughly, you might even take a quick 2nd shower.

Instead of aftershave or alcohol containing balms, try plain witch hazel. For an antiseptic use peroxide.

Try applying a thin coat of glycerine (dilute with water) just before shaving. It will lubricate without irritating. Try also a bit after shaving it will keep your face from drying out esp. if you live in a cold dry climate.

Try a shaving brush.

I bought some African Black Soap with a brush in Target and it is very soothing. I however use only small amounts of that mixed with regular soap and glycerine with my shaving brush.

I suggest at least a double blade. Try blades without lubricating strips in case that's a factor.

I've shaved in the past with plane vegetable oil. Try that if you think the soap is causing irritation.

Ultimately though if bumps are a real problem you may want to consult with a dermatologist.

 

[arildno]

You might try the following:
Do NOT use any shaving gel or cream when shaving; you ARE pushing chemicals you might be allergic to into your skin.

Instead, apply water liberally to your face DURING the shaving; leave the tap water running, and moisten the blade between each stroke.

It works perfectly fine, and you will find out if it is the cream you are allergic to, or if you shouldn't shave at all (still getting rashes etc).