Is face shaving the answer to all your skin problems?

Until the recent digital wave, the concept of a woman wielding a blade to shave her face was almost unheard-of. Many influencers claim to have reaped the benefits of shaving after achieving supple and radiant skin from the practice, allowing for a smooth surface for makeup and skincare products to glide. 

While this trendy ritual may seem attractive from the outset, providing a quick fix to get rid of facial hair, there are complications that can arise if people make uninformed decisions just for the sake of following a popular trend. 

Dr Meghna Mour, aesthetic dermatologist, cosmetologist, trichologist, laser specialist and founder of Skuccii Supercliniq, says that there are multiple benefits of face shaving. It helps absorb skincare products more effectively, preserves collagen production in the skin as well as blurs out visible fine lines and wrinkles over time.

However, Dr. Rashmi Aderao, dermatology consultant at Ruby Hall Clinic Pune, warns that using an incorrect technique can lead to a myriad of skin problems including redness, irritation, or razor burn. Dr Mour agrees, “Using a dull razor, shaving too aggressively, or neglecting to moisturise afterwards can worsen these risks.”

Many influencers claim to have reaped the benefits of shaving by achieving a supple and radiant skin. (Source: Freepik)

It is no secret that the beauty and skincare industry is massive today, and in the pursuit of that coveted ‘glass skin’ glow that finds its way into our social media feeds almost daily, many would want to try shaving their faces in order to achieve that perfect glow. But nothing can beat being knowledgeable about what you are putting your skin through. That is why Dr Dinyar Workingboxwalla, skin guru, Beauty by BiE recommends proceeding with caution, especially if you have sensitive and acne prone skin. “Shaving can aggravate these conditions. If you must try, do a patch test first and use a single-blade razor with a super gentle touch,” he stresses. 

Dr Rinky Kapoor, dermatologist and director, The Esthetic Clinics, recommends women to use “special dermaplaning tools” to shave their face.

Dr Kapoor suggests the following techniques while shaving: 

• Wash your face to remove dirt and makeup.
  
• Use a toner on the skin to wipe off any dirt and residues.
  
• Gently scrub the facial skin to remove dead skin to prevent ingrown hair.
  
• Steam or hydrate your skin to open up the pores, and soften the hair follicles for easy removal. You can also do so by holding a damp washcloth (of tepid water) onto face for about 2-3 minutes.
  
• Apply shaving gel on the areas you want to shave.
• Shave in the direction of the hair growth.
  
• Keep a light downward pressure on the skin and keep the razor at a 45-degree angle. The strokes should be short and steady; wash the razor between every stroke.  
  
• Moisturise your skin using an oil or cream immediately after shaving.

Face shaving comes with several benefits; but it is important to consider the problems that may arise from the use of this technique. If you have skin concerns, then it is best to consult a dermatologist first or go for safer options like threading and waxing. “Over-shaving or using harsh techniques can lead to damage to the skin barrier and increased sensitivity over time. Women should aim for a balanced approach and prioritise skin health above all else,” Dr Workingboxwalla informs.

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