Hair Removal 123

Shaving - Shaving for both genders is actually an excellent way of exfoliating or removing dead skin to help with the prevention and spreading of acne instead of leaving the remains to clog pores. And for some light acne cases already in process, shaving can help rid whiteheads and blackheads from the face. A word of caution: for areas with infection or high inflammatory activity (redness, sensitive, open acne, sores, etc.), do not shave. Or at the very least, use a shaving cream for sensitive skin.

For best results with regular shaving, follow these procedures:

First steer away from shaving creams that are oily and choose one for sensitive skin if available. Then moisten facial or other hair with warm water, apply the shaving cream and lather well. Shave with a sharp (not dull) blade. Note when shaving, use gentle swipes instead of heavy pressure ones that can irritate acne-prone areas. And go with the flow or "grain;" in other words, adapt to downward, lateral, angular or upward swipes, for a smoother shave with less nicks and irritating backward motions. Experiment with different razors, both electric and disposable, with single- double- or triple-edged (mach III) heads to see which works best for you. And try shaving in a warm shower for better results. For after shaving applications, try toning to stop bacteria dead in its tracks before it gets into your open follicles. Here are some suggestions: try antibiotic gel or lotion, witch hazel, Dalacin T, a mild alcohol-free toner, Benzoyl Peroxide in gel form and Salicylic Acid in a gel.

Shaving Tip: Electric razors may not shave as close to the skin; however, they help with the prevention of acne and other skin breakouts and flare-ups better.

Shaving Tip: If a non-electric razor is your choice, a single-edged blade is actually better. Why? Because double- and triple-edged blades grab hair follicles and pull them out from below the epidermis. And in the process, your skin "heals itself" by closing over these holes, making it difficult for future hair follicles to grow outward - creating inflammation in the tight areas.