How It Works: This is the most common hair removal method in use. Using a sharp razor, the hair is cut from the base of the hair shaft, where it has grown out from the surface of the skin. There are a variety of razors, some are inexpensive and completely disposable, designed to be thrown out once the blade gets dull. Others have a disposable blade, and some shaving systems are electric. Some razors are considered ‘safety razors’, and are designed in such as way to reduce the risk of cuts or nicks to the skin. Ladies often shave their legs, arms, bikini line and under-arms. Guys often shave their mustache, beard, or head.
How Long It Lasts: 1 to 4 days, depending on individual
Pros: This is a hair removal technique which can be done alone and in the comfort of your home. It is inexpensive, and requires some water – warm is preferred, a sharp razor, shaving cream or gel, and if you like, before and after-shave. You can also go to a barber shop, where a professional will shave your facial hair.
Cons: Shaving can cause skin irritation, cuts, or ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs sometime occur from close and frequent shaving. Once the hair begins to grow, it can grow in the nearby tissue rather than growing out of the follicle. The hair starts to curl around underneath the skin, and irritates it. Shaving effects last for a short time, and dark-haired individuals can show a “shadow” from the dark hair underneath the skin surface.
Tips: Taking a hot shower softens the skin. Getting a shave afterwards will give you a closer shave. Start slowly, and pull loose skin area tight before running the razor over them. IF the razor starts to get dull, it can start to nick the skin, so change it often. Shaving cream protects sensitive skin, we recommend using it before using a razor. Electric razors are less likely to cut, you can try it if nerveous about using a blade.
To avoid ingrown hairs, it helps shaving in the same direction in which the hair grows naturally.