Straight razors are the best shaving choice for preventing ingrown hairs. If you’re using a multi-blade cartridge or electric razor, it’s time to make the switch.
Those of you who deal with ingrown hairs know how painful and irritating they can be. Fortunately, there’s a way to prevent them.
Don’t wait. If you’ve been telling yourself, “Just one more shave with my cheap, plastic, disposable razor,” consider this your sign to try a straight razor shave from an experienced barber. You’ll have
- fewer ingrown hairs,
- a smoother shave,
- and less irritation.
Afterward, check out my article on beard maintenance if you want to learn more about proper shaving and beard care.
Ingrown hairs come from hair curling back into the skin.
Let’s talk about why ingrown hairs form.
When hair follicles get blocked, they’ll sometimes grow back into the skin instead of out of it, causing irritation and inflammation. It’s more common for men with thick or curly hair, but a risk for anyone who shaves their face.
How to spot an ingrown hair.
Look for a raised, discolored spot on your face a couple of days after shaving. You may also spot a hair trapped under the skin.
They may cause infection.
Most of the time, ingrown hairs clear up on their own after a week or two of itching and discomfort. Sometimes, though, they’ll become infected and can even scar your face.
Cartridge razors cut close. But there’s a cost.
Cartridge razors have a replaceable blade head with multiple blades. Many of them are designed to lift and cut hair below the skin’s surface for an extra-close shave. The problem is that this method increases the risk of hair growing back in the wrong direction, causing ingrown hairs.
A straight razor gives you more control.
With a straight razor, you’re working with a single blade that’s very sharp. Since razors give such a precise cut, they don’t need as many passes over the skin.
The shave from a straight razor doesn’t dig into the skin or pull at the hair shaft, giving you a gentler shave with fewer ingrown hairs and less irritation.
Razors work best with the right prep.
Start by rinsing your face with warm water to open your pores and soften your hair. Then apply a thin layer of shaving cream. You don’t want to go too thick, because that’ll make it harder to maneuver your blade.
Don’t want to learn the art of the straight razor shave? No worries.
A good barber is trained to do all of this. That’s why a professional straight razor shave tends to give you the best results.
Fewer passes mean less tugging, redness, and razor burn. Your face will thank you.
At The Classic, we specialize in precision straight razor shaves.
See the difference a real shave can make with one of our expert barbers.
If you’re in the Fort Worth area, book your appointment online or stop by either of our locations on 8th Ave. and McCart.
