• Skin Care

Face Shaving Tips for Women: What to Avoid and How to Get it Right

Medically reviewed and edited by Suzanne Biggs, FNP-C

One in every 10 women has noticeable facial hair, which is completely natural but often inconvenient.

Whether it’s fine peach fuzz or more noticeable hair around the jawline and upper lip, managing facial hair may be an important part of your beauty routine.

Shaving is a popular and effective way for women to remove facial hair, but when facial shaving is done incorrectly, it can lead to razor burn, nicks, and red bumps. 

In this article, we’ll share some guidelines on what women should avoid when shaving their faces. We’ll also offer some practical steps to follow to get facial shaving right.

What to Avoid When Shaving Your Face

Before you start shaving your face, it’s important to know what to avoid for the best results. Here are some things that women get wrong with facial shaving:

Not pulling the skin taut

Pulling your skin taut while shaving your face is a technique that helps achieve a closer, smoother, and safer shave.

Loose skin can fold or wrinkle under your razor, increasing the chances of nicks and cuts.

By pulling the skin taut, you create a flat, even surface for the razor to glide over.

Using soap instead of shaving gel

You should avoid using regular soap to shave your face and use a shaving cream or gel instead.

Soap doesn’t provide the same lubrication as shaving cream, leading to more friction and potential skin irritation.

Rather invest in a good quality shaving cream or gel designed for sensitive skin. These products help the razor glide more smoothly and can reduce ingrown hairs and other uncomfortable experiences.

Using dull blades

Dull blades can tug at your facial hair and skin, causing irritation, nicks, and cuts that lead to discomfort.

Instead, use a sharp, clean razor and replace the blade every five to seven shaves. You should also replace your razor if you find it’s becoming less effective.

Dry shaving

Shaving on dry skin increases friction and the risk of razor burn, cuts, and irritation. Always shave on damp skin, preferably after a shower when it’s softer. 

Instead of using a razor directly on dry skin, apply shaving cream or gel to create a protective barrier for a safe and comfortable shave.

Shaving over broken or irritated skin

Shaving over acne, rashes, or cuts can worsen these conditions and may lead to infection, as the blade can cause open wounds. 

Always wait until the skin has healed in these areas before shaving. If you must shave, do so carefully around these sensitive areas.

Applying too much pressure

Pressing the razor too hard against the skin can cause cuts and razor burn. Rather, use a light touch and let the razor do the work, shaving in short, gentle strokes.

Shaving against the grain

Shaving against the direction of hair growth can increase the chances of ingrown hairs and irritation. Instead, shave in the direction of hair growth. 

If you need a closer shave, go across the grain (sideways), but do so with caution. 

Using alcohol-based products after shaving

Products containing alcohol can dry out the skin and cause stinging and irritation after you shave. 

Look for a soothing, alcohol-free moisturizer or a balm or lotion designed for use on sensitive skin after shaving. Good ingredients to look out for include:

• Aloe vera

• Glycerin

• Chamomile extract

• Witch hazel

• Hyaluronic acid

Shaving too frequently

Shaving too often can irritate the skin and cause sensitivity and ingrown hairs. Give your skin time to recover between shaves, and only shave when necessary.

Using unclean razors

Dirty razors may harbor bacteria, which can increase the risk of infection and irritation. To avoid this, rinse your razor thoroughly after each use and store it in a clean, dry place. 

You may also want to use a disinfectant spray on the blades between uses.

Over-exfoliating

While exfoliating your skin is beneficial, over-exfoliating isn’t good. It’s especially harmful before shaving as it can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

Aim to exfoliate one to two times a week using a mild exfoliant, and avoid exfoliating immediately before or after shaving facial hair.

Using the wrong razor

Razors designed for legs or body hair may not be suitable for the delicate skin on the face, especially that of the upper lip and jawline.

Use razors that are specifically designed for facial hair removal, such as facial razors or dermaplaning tools. This will help prevent skin irritation and keep your facial skin smooth.

Shaving with dirty hands

Bacteria from dirty hands can transfer to your face, increasing your risk of infection. To avoid this, always wash your hands thoroughly before shaving.

How to Shave Your Face the Right Way

Now that you know what to avoid when shaving your face, let’s look at the steps you should take to get facial shaving right:

Getting started

Proper preparation for face shaving will ensure a smooth and comfortable shave. 

It should also reduce the risk of irritation and cuts. Here are the steps women should follow to prepare for shaving:

• Cleanse the skin: Cleansing removes dirt, oil, and impurities that could clog your razor and cause irritation. Use a gentle facial cleanser suitable for your skin type, and then rinse with warm water to open your pores and effectively clean your skin.

• Soften the hair: Softening your facial hair makes it easier to cut and reduces tugging and irritation. We recommend shaving after a warm shower and applying a damp towel to your face for a few minutes. The warmth and moisture will help to soften your facial hair before shaving.

• Check your razor: A clean, sharp razor is essential for a safe and effective shave. Ensure that your razor blade isn’t dull, and check for rust or signs of corrosion before using it.

During shaving

Now that you’ve prepared to shave your face, these are some essential tips to follow while you’re shaving: 

• Use light pressure: As mentioned earlier, using too much pressure while shaving can cause nicks, cuts, and irritation. Hold the razor lightly and let it glide over your skin. Avoid going over the same areas multiple times, as this can lead to even more irritation.

• Rinse the razor regularly: As you shave, dead skin cells and shaving cream will build up on your razor. To get a clean and close shave, be sure to rinse your razor under warm water regularly while shaving.

• Shave in a well-lit area: Proper lighting ensures you can see all the areas of your face clearly, avoiding missing any spots. Use a mirror in a well-lit room, or consider a magnifying mirror for even better visibility.

• Be gentle around sensitive areas: The skin around areas like the lips and jawline can be more sensitive and prone to irritation. Take extra care in these areas by using lighter pressure when gliding your razor across the skin. 

After shaving

Proper post-shave care is essential if you want to soothe your skin, reduce irritation, and prevent issues like ingrown hairs or infections. Some steps to follow include:

• Clean and store your razor properly: Taking good care of your razor prevents bacterial buildup and prolongs its lifespan. Rinse your razor thoroughly after shaving and let it dry completely before storing it in a protective case or cover.

• Rinse with cool water: Cool water helps to close the pores on your face and reduce inflammation and irritation. Splash your face with cool water or use a cool, damp washcloth.

• Pat your skin dry: Rubbing the skin after shaving can cause irritation and worsen sensitivity. Instead, gently pat your skin dry using a soft, clean towel.

• Apply a soothing moisturizer: A good aftershave moisturizer will hydrate your skin, reduce redness, and soothe irritation. Use an alcohol-free, fragrance-free lotion, balm, or gel. You should wait half an hour before you apply any makeup or facial creams to your skin.

• Protect your skin from the sun: Freshly shaved skin is more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. This can increase your risk of sunburn and skin damage. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before going outside, even on cloudy days.

Should I Use Facial Hair Removers?

If you’d prefer not to shave your face, you can use facial hair removers instead. 

These come in the form of creams and gels that you can apply to your face and then wipe away along with the removed hair.

Depending on how fast your facial hair grows, facial hair removers can keep the skin smooth for up to three days.

Where Can I Get More Health and Wellness Advice?

LifeMD may be able to offer advice to help you learn more about effective ways to maintain healthy skin if you tend to shave your face.

You can connect with licensed healthcare professionals who are available to provide guidance and treatments for a variety of health issues and give you the best wellness advice.

Skip the waiting room and make an online appointment today to get started.

Suzanne Biggs, FNP-C

Suzanne is a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the medical field. She believes in a comprehensive approach to health. Her commitment to promoting this holistic perspective on health and wellness is evident in the thoughtful care and guidance she provides to her patients. When not busy with her professional responsibilities, Suzanne enjoys spending time with her family and her horses, cultivating her flower garden, doing various crafts, and collecting seashells on the beach in her home state of Florida.

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