Dad showing son how to shave with a Wahl shaver.

How to Prevent Skin Irritation from Shaving

Ask any guy who uses an electric shaver if he’ll ever be going back to manual shaving and you’ll almost always get an emphatic, “No!” The conversion, however, sometimes results in minor skin irritation or “razor burn” because the skin needs to adjust to the changes in pressure, technique and heat. There are ways to lessen these potential effects:

How to Prevent Skin Irritation from Shaving Step-by-Step

  • 1

    Use a warm washcloth to open pores & soften the hair.

    Use hot water to warm a washcloth, which should be placed on the area to be shaved for 2 or 3 minutes in order to open the pores and soften the hair.

  • 2

    Start shaving in the sensitive areas first.

    Remove the washcloth. Begin by first shaving your most sensitive areas, like the neck and under the ears.

  • 3

    Use shaving products during and after your shave.

    Some men enjoy dry shaving. Which is all good, but runs a higher risk of skin irritation. Using a shaving cream or shaving gel can help. After your shave, use an after shave to continue calming any irritation and moisturizing your skin.

  • 4

    Less is more to reduce friction.

    When shaving, don’t go over the same spot too many times because the friction can cause redness and irritation (razor burn).

  • 5

    Rinse your skin & let dry.

    Rinse your skin thoroughly after shaving and either pat-dry with a washcloth or let your skin air dry. Do not rub your face with a washcloth. Rubbing with a towel can also cause irritation.

  • 6

    Clean & maintain your shaver.

    Clean your shaver after every 3 or 4 uses. This keeps your shaver lasting longer, but also a clean shaver reduces irritation for your skin.

  • 7

    Some skin is just sensitive.

    Have patience. Some skin is just sensitive and always will be. But that doesn't mean that you can't take steps to reduce or prevent the irritation. Over time, your skin will adjust and you’ll be happy you made the effort!

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Wahl shavers are engineered to provide a fast, clean and close shave, leaving your skin smooth and free of irritation.

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