Test Your Knowledge

There are a number of steps men and women can take to reduce their risk for cuts, irritation and ingrown hairs as the result of shaving. These include:

• Thoroughly wet the hair before shaving. When shaving the face, place a hot, wet washcloth on the area for five minutes to soften the hair. Individuals can also shave during a shower or immediately after one.
  
  
• Use a shaving gel. These products help soften the hair, prevent the skin from becoming too dry and reduce friction from the razor.
  
  
• Shave in the direction that the hairs lie (with the grain).
  
  
• Avoid repeating strokes. Instead, use only one short and slow stroke over each section.
  
  
• Keep the skin relaxed while shaving.
  
  
• Avoid stretching the skin while shaving.
  
  
• Shave every other day rather than daily.
  
  
• Set electric razors on “high” settings to avoid shaving too close.
  
  
• Avoid pressing the razor too hard against the skin.
  
  
• Use a clean, sharp blade when using a standard razor.
  
  
• Rinse standard razors after every few strokes. This helps remove shaving cream and hair from the blade.
  
  
• Rinse face with cold water after shaving.