7 Shaving Mistakes That Might Wreck Your Skin

Women spend more than 58 days removing hair from their bodies during their lifetime. Most women choose shaving as a painless, affordable, and easy hair removal method. And while shaving isn’t exactly rocket science, there are some common mistakes that can seriously affect your health and your looks.

We at Bright Side have done some research to find out what shaving mistakes are better to avoid.

1. You’re using a “women’s” razor.

Men’s razors have more tightly-packed blades designed to cut thick facial hair. Because men’s razors are made to navigate around the chin and neck, the head of the razor has an accurate swivel which minimizes the chances of getting cut. Another major upside to using men’s razors is the price: they’re much cheaper than ladies’ razors.

2. Your razor has too many blades.

Although using a razor with 4 or 5 blades can give you the feeling of a close shave, it can damage your skin. When you shave, you cut into your skin, and using a 1 or 2-blade razor can minimize the chance of you developing razor burn.

3. You’re shaving in the wrong direction.

When you’re moving your razor upward, you’re going against the grain, which makes you more likely to cut yourself. Shaving upward can also lead to razor burn, damaged hair follicles, and ingrown hairs. Shaving your legs downward will minimize skin irritation and can protect you from razor burn.

4. You don’t wait enough in the shower.

It’s better to save shaving for the end of your shower when your skin is warmer and your leg hair is softer. Shaving when your skin is still dry or without using creams or gels may give you razor burn and itchiness.

5. You’re sharing your razor with someone.

Sharing a razor is an easy way to swap germs and bacteria. The blades can spread infections such as folliculitis or fungal infection. Bacteria that cause herpes and hepatitis can also develop in the moist areas between blades.

6. You don’t change blades often enough.

When the blades look dull or the moisturizing strip at the top has faded, it’s time to replace your razor. Shaving with old, dull blades may lead to skin irritation and razor rash. Old razors can carry bacteria that can enter your freshly opened pores.

7. You’re storing your razor in the shower.

Keeping your razor in a dry place prevents rust and bacteria from harboring in the blades. The best way to store your razor is to keep it upright and out in the open to allow the blades to fully dry.

Are you making any of these mistakes? Do you know any other shaving hacks you can share with other Bright Siders?