Have you ever noticed that the shaved parts of your face are slightly darker than the rest?

Well, if you have, here’s why…

The aggressive nature of shaving, whether it’s with a razor or an electric shaver, can cause skin discoloration. The rubbing or scraping action of the blades can cause minor cuts to the skin, causing “hyperpigmentation“, which is the skin’s way of replacing color to the damaged area.

So, how do you avoid unnecessary darkening of these shaved areas?

1. Prep well –  Whether it’s a wet-shave or an electric shave, make sure you follow the necessary steps to prepare the skin for shaving. This will reduce any nicks that may result. (See: Electric Shaving con’t…(tricks for a better electric shave) or my Quick & Classic Shaving Tips).
2. Avoid shaving against the grain - This practice can not only cause irritation, but in some cases nicks to the skin, which result in the hair being pulled and snagged instead of cut.
3. Avoid rubbing alcohol or aftershave products that contain alcohol – Alcohol can dry, harden and even darken the skin. Stick with aftershave balms that do not contain the ingredient alcohol.

We’ve all popped a pimple, right?  Sometimes there’s even a reminder a day later of where you did it.  You see it, that red or discolored spot on your skin.  I see a lot of clients who have scarring from teenage acne.  A few have even admitted to using their wife’s or girlfriend’s concealer!  A lot of times I hear, “There is nothing you can do about it.”  Trust me – there is ALWAYS something you can do about it.

One way is to pay a visit to an esthetician (a person who specializes in the beautification of the skin).  He/she will evaluate your skin and apply a series of treatments, ranging from facials to peels to microdermabrasion, and even laser treatments if necessary.  But, there is a simpler solution you should try first, Vitamin E.  Available in many forms (vitamins, creams and oils), vitamin E has been proven to work wonders on reducing red spots and acne scars.  I find that the gel caps work the best!   

Vitamin E Gel Caps

Just prick open the gel tab with a pin and squeeze a little on your finger and apply.  A word of warning, it is rather sticky so you will want to blot the excess off with a moist tissue. Do this every night after you have washed your face. If your skin is oily don’t worry – this will not make it worse. Oily skin is actually the result of dehydrated skin that is producing extra oils to compensate, so this can help that situation as well.

If you are hesitant to put the gel directly on your face because you think it is too sticky, you can mix it in with your daily moisturizer. It’s a cost-effective chemical-free treatment. Give it a shot!