There seems to be a trend going around, more men are sporting beards – and not the nice ‘stubbly’ kind. I’m talking full-on Farmer Brown, or is it hipster? Anyway, this got me wondering – why the beard? So I asked a male colleague “why the beard?” – and his response was simple. Not shaving is healthier for your skin, and less of a schlep to maintain.

Ah – makes sense I thought, but not all men are able to pull-off a stylish beard and others simply prefer the fresh-look / clean shaven face.

Truth be told, most women find “morning stubble” easy on the eye, albeit rough to the touch. But since we’re not the ones having to deal with ever-growing face-fuzz, I’ve put together a simple list of shaving tips that will treat and prevent future razor burn and bump flare-ups.

Preventing Razor Burn

  • Shave after taking a shower. The steam and water softens the beard, making the hair easier to work with. If you are unable to shower before shaving, wash your face and place a warm, damp towel on your face for a few minutes.
  • Use a badger brush, instead of your hands to apply shaving cream. A badger brush raises the hair from the skin and allows for even distribution, giving you a smoother shave.
  • Shave with the grain. Shaving against the grain renders faster results, but also increases your chance of developing razor burn and bumps. It may take longer, but with light and soft strokes the outcome will be worth it.
  • Rinse your blade with warm water after every few strokes, to clear the blade of dead skin cells, hair and shaving cream.
  • Don’t shave the same area twice, without applying more shaving cream first. Shaving without moisture causes friction between the blade and the skin, ultimately resulting in razor burn. You can also nick yourself!
  • Rinse your face with cold water and pat-dry with a clean towel – bacteria thrives in damp towels.
  • Finish with some shaving balm or anti-bump cream. Applying aftershave immediately can irritate the newly shaven, tender skin.

Who wore it better: Farmer vs. Hipster beard?

 

Treating Razor Burn

  • Exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and to eliminate potential ingrown hairs.
  • Avoid alcohol-based aftershaves.
  • Avoid shaving for a few days, so that your skin can heal.
  • Speak to you pharmacist or dermatologist about using a cortisone-based shaving balm.
  • Use witch hazel balm to soothe the skin, and to speed up the healing process.
  • Consider switching to a safety blade

Choosing and Caring for your Razor Blade

  • Don’t go after simplicity. Many men swear by the efficiency of a five-blade razor, while others swear that it’s the cause of the razor burn. If you are using a three, five or even a seven-blade razor, and the effects are adverse, try using a safety blade. Despite being a shaving method that’s as old as time, it also eliminates razor burn and gives you a smoother finish.
  • Never use a dull blade – ever.
  • Clean your blade with alcohol after use and dry it with a towel.
  • Rinse and dry your badger brush. A wet badger brush can double-up as a bacteria breeding city that will invade your face. You’ve been warned!

And just like that, whether you choose to grow a beard or not – at least your skin will love you 🙂