Men shave daily, no matter which facial hair style they want to achieve. However, getting flawless skin without skin irritation presents challenges for many men. Male customers often ask about proper exfoliation timing relative to their shaving routine.
We will examine why exfoliation helps to shave and share appropriate times and essential steps to achieve ideal results.
Why Is Exfoliation Important?
You can eliminate dead skin from your skin surface by applying gentle exfoliation. Skin cells that die and remain on your skin block your pores, resulting in blemishes while disturbing your shaving experience. By exfoliating, you:
- Use your razor easily over smoother skin to reach closer to your skin.
- You will reduce the chance of ingrown hairs and razor burns appearing on your skin.
- Your skin will look fresher and healthier because of exfoliation.
Exfoliating Before Shaving: The Benefits
Per experts in grooming, exfoliation should occur before shaving due to its benefits.
Prepares the Skin and Hair
Your razor runs better across exfoliated skin because it removes the dead cells that block its movement. Mild pressure reduces surface scraping, making the skin more prone to irritation. When the skin’s surface hairs are raised, they easily become cut by the razor blade.
Reduces the Risk of Ingrown Hairs
The hair shaft enters back into the skin instead of growing outward, producing ingrown hairs. Shaving your skin with dead cells removed removes hair from hidden traps and reduces bump formation.
Opens Up Your Pores
Exfoliating works better when you wet your skin under warm water, followed by steam towel heat, because it opens your pores. Since your skin opens more easily for the razor, you need fewer strokes and experience less discomfort.
Exfoliating After Shaving: The Benefits
Many men exfoliate their skin before shaving, but others do it afterwards. Here is why:
Smooths the Skin Post-Shave
After shaving, dead skin cells can be eliminated to achieve smooth and revived skin. This technique is very useful for people with dry and rough skin.
Helps Prevent Razor Burn
Many men’s skin irritates during shaving, leading to razor burns. The skin benefits from dead cells when you exfoliate after shaving to minimize discomfort and remove dead surface layers.
Keeps the Skin Clear
Shaving may force oil and bacteria deeper into your pores, which triggers acne. Removing dead skin cells through exfoliation reduces pimple breakouts from shaving activities.
Which Is Better: Before or After?
Your skin type and shaving objectives determine when you should exfoliate.
Exfoliate Before Shaving if:
- People who have sensitive skin should not use exfoliation twice.
- You need to achieve better contact and less roughness during your shaving session.
- You are prone to ingrown hairs.
Exfoliate After Shaving if:
- Your complexion produces excessive oil and develops pimples.
- You need to relieve and refresh your skin, which you have experienced shaving.
- Your skin feels irritated and dries out because of the blade.
How to Exfoliate Like a Pro
Proper handling of the exfoliation process is essential for success. Follow these directions to achieve the best results.
Choose the Right Exfoliant
There are two main types:
- Physical Exfoliants: Contain tiny granules that scrub away dead skin cells. Pick a product with tiny grains to prevent skin pain.
- Chemical Exfoliants: Your skin cells die better as acids and enzymes dissolve them. Milder exfoliants work especially well for those with sensitive skin.
Be Gentle
Exfoliation should never hurt. Exfoliate with gentle circles while the product does its work. Do not rub your skin forcefully, as tough scrubbing will harm it.
Do not Overdo It
Exfoliating your skin twice to three times weekly is standard practice. Excessive exfoliation removes your skin’s natural oils, producing dryness.
Follow Up With Moisturizer
The dry skin feeling from exfoliation must be moisturized immediately with a hydrating product. The moisturizer seals hydration, keeping your skin more comfortable and supple.
The Bottom Line
What is the proper order when you exfoliate and shave your skin? Your choice depends on your skin condition and desired hair grooming results. Exfoliation before shaving prepares your skin well and stops new hairs from growing inward, yet exfoliation after shaving calms and revitalizes your skin.
Test using these methods to find the best results. Proper shaving requires you to discover the best care routine for your skin condition.
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Mia Patel is a grooming expert focused on men's health and skincare, sharing advice on products, routines, and tips for a polished look.
