Ingrown hairs are the result of the hair growing back into the skin. Why do so many men (and women) suffer with this?
Let me help shed some light on this. But first, I need to establish that knowing the correct way to shave (Quick & Classic Shaving Tips), is the #1 step to reducing ingrown hairs.
So let’s begin.
Two things you MUST stop doing!
- Shaving against the grain
- Following the trend of multiple blade razors (all have lift-cut engineering)
Why? Because both practices promote a smoother shave by cutting the hair “below“ the skin line. However, the main objective in reducing ingrown hairs is to control the hair. And, the only way to control the hair is for you to see it.
Most men that suffer with ingrown hairs have curly or wavy beards. These beards grow at an angle out of the skin anywhere from 0 – 40 degrees (very low to the surface). So your best bet is to shave in a way that will keep the hair “above” the skin line.
I recommend…
- Shaving with the grain
- Less is more…blades that is.
- Try single or double blades – more control in customizing the length of the beard.
- Consider razor blades with guards that prevent the hair from getting cut too close (ex. Bump Fighter razor blade w/ Bump Guard)
- Replace often – use same razor no more than 3 times
Or…
Try electric shaving
- Foil electric shavers that allow you to shave with the grain (for ex. Braun)
- Trimmers (T-Outliners by Andis or Taler Trimmers by Oster)
There are quite a few post shave products on the market that are designed to assist in remedying this issue as well (i.e. 3-in-1 Post Shave, The Cool Fix & Bump Patrol). However, as I stated earlier, knowing the correct way to shave is the first step.
What if a gentlemann is using and electric razor? I’m sure same rules apply but anything else that gent should know.
Thanks Michael!
The same rules definitely apply along with the focus of making sure that the hair being cut stays “above” the skin-line (http://www.themensroom.com/shaving/2010/keep-it-above-the-skinline/).
Best of luck!
Craig,
Thanks so much for mentioning Bump Patrol. We agree wholeheartedly that shaving against the grain goes against a man’s goal for long-term smoothness. Shaving incorrectly causes irritation, then inflammation, which can cause hair to get trapped under the skin. Keep up the good work of educating your following! — Lisa (Shavin’ Maven for Bump Patrol)
So lisa against the grain is wrong is that what youre saying? What about across the grain? Sideways? Is that just as bad? Thanks in advance.
Yes, Martin. You don’t want to tug the hair or irritate the skin. A bit self-serving here, but allow me to share Bump Patrol’s how-to video: http://www.mmproducts.com/bumppatrol/ We agree with Craig — it’s WITH the grain to avoid the pain.