Dermatologist's Shaving 101: Tips on How To Shave to Avoid Razor Burn and Ingrown Hair

Everything I want you to know about shaving! Why do we need to practice good shaving habits?

Men and women commonly suffer from folliculitis and ingrown hairs from frequent shaving.



We discuss shaving techniques quite a bit in clinic and this video is to help as a foundation for building good shaving habits. I know my technique is not pure and perfect but this video is just a basic guide to help you formulate your own personalized style of shaving!



Men commonly are plagued with razor burn or a medical condition called pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) of the face and neck. PFB can be avoided with decreasing the frequency of shaving and practicing good shaving techniques but there are times when you have to come in to see a dermatologist for treatment with prescription medications or treatments (intralesional steroid injections, laser hair removal).



Here are the basic steps to shaving:
1. Cleanse face with warm water and consider a BHA based cleanser like Neutrogena's salicyclic acid wash https://amzn.to/2KYPUNI
2. Use a non-irritating shave gel (gels tend to be more lubricating than shave foams). I like Aveeno's Shave Gel https://amzn.to/2z2Ukka
3. Shave with the grain, and rinse your blade frequently between strokes
4. Follow-up with cold water to rinse off your shave gel and then cleanse with a gentle cleanser; I like to use La Roche Posay's Purifying Foaming Cleanser with ceramides and niacinamide https://amzn.to/3pqHrW0

5. I do not use "after shave" but instead use a moisturizer like EltaMD's moisturizers which have niacinamide: EltaMD Renewal Complex https://amzn.to/2Wqnkdk or EltaMD PM https://amzn.to/2WriJb5

6. Apply SPF...Be your best self for the day while looking your best!

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I like to use a 5 blade razor by Gillette- their ProGlide Fusion https://amzn.to/3dhgC03.
Of note, my Gillette blades are meant to last for 1 month https://amzn.to/2KX9QAB. I change my blades out every 3 weeks but this varies on your shaving frequency and the type of disposable blade you are using. Everyone is different and this is not a cookie cutter method to shaving for everyone. Some individuals are unable to tolerate blades and need electric shavers- just ensure these are cleaned out well on a regular basis as bacteria can get easily trapped.

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Disclaimer: This video is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment with your healthcare professional. This is for medical educational purposes only.
I am not sponsored by any of the companies mentioned in this video.

Dr. Daniel Sugai
Board Certified Dermatologist