News
How Common Skin Irritants in Shaving Products Affect Your Skin
Have you ever experienced facial irritation from shaving with a certain type of gel or cream? Chances are, one of the common skin irritants in shaving products is to blame. But fear not! In this blog post, we'll share some top tips on common skin irritants and how to avoid shaving irritation so you can achieve a smooth and comfortable shave every time. So grab your go-to shaving supplies, and let's get started! Identifying Common Irritants in Shaving Creams and Gels Many people are unaware of how to prevent facial irritation while shaving, which is why it is essential to recognize the potential irritants present in most creams and gels on the market. These ingredients can cause skin irritation, redness, and itching. Avoiding them can keep your skin feeling fresh rather than agitated. At Timothy's Skincare, we prioritize offering our customers products that are both safe for your skin and effective. One common irritant found in many shave cream and gel products is alcohol. This ingredient acts as an astringent on your skin and can cause dryness and tightness. Alcohol-based products can strip away your natural oils, leading to more discomfort and facial irritation when shaving. Additionally, products like alcohol based aftershaves may feel refreshing on the face, but can be very drying and irritating for some people. Instead, opt for a post shave balm with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or shea butter. These ingredients will hydrate the skin instead of stripping it of its natural oils. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to razor burn, it’s best to avoid using products with alcohol as an ingredient. Another common irritant found in shave creams and gels are fragrances. Fragrances are added to give the product a pleasant smell, but they can also cause contact dermatitis or other types of irritation when applied topically. Fragrances can cause facial irritation when shaving, especially for sensitive skin types, and may cause burning sensations or redness. To reduce your chances of experiencing an adverse reaction to fragrances in shave products, one should use a shaving cream or gel that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Next up we have preservatives and parabens. Preservatives are also commonly found in shaving products and are used to increase their shelf life, as they are designed to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. Parabens are one type of preservative that has been linked to allergic reactions and contact dermatitis when applied topically. Also take note that certain plant extracts such as Camphor and Menthol can cause stinging and burning sensations if used too heavily or applied directly to the skin without dilution. So it’s best to avoid these ingredients altogether, particularly if you have sensitive skin. And last on our list of common shaving irritants to avoid are Sulfates (also known as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or SLS). Sulfates are detergents used to create lather and foam in shave creams. Sulfates have been shown to cause dryness or redness, and foaming creams obstruct your view when shaving, making it harder to navigate the contours of your skin. Also, foaming clogs and dulls razor blades which leads to having to push harder on the skin, which leads to nicks and cuts. It is essential to be aware of the ingredients that can lead to facial irritation while shaving. When shopping for shave creams and gels, check the label carefully to help ensure an irritation-free shave every time! All of Timothy’s Skincare products have been designed specifically to be hypoallergenic and irritant-free. How Timothy's Skincare Can Help We know shaving is a necessary part of many people's daily routine. Unfortunately, facial irritation from shaving can be caused by shave creams and gels that contain ingredients that can cause irritation. That's why we strive to provide high-quality products that are designed for sensitive skin and have been tested for allergens and skin irritants through rigorous RIPT testing. Our products are free of common irritants so you can enjoy a close shave without the burning sensation that comes from traditional products. Our formulas contain no alcohol or synthetic fragrances so you don't have to worry about them irritating your skin. We also use only natural preservatives so there are no harsh parabens or sulfates present in our products. Plus, all our products are also cruelty-free. At Timothy's Skincare we understand how uncomfortable it is to deal with razor burn and facial irritation from shaving, which is why we strive to provide the best quality shave cream and gel available today. We want our customers not only to learn how to avoid shaving irritation, but our goal is to provide high-quality skincare products that help you look and feel your best without sacrificing your comfort or safety. Try our products today and start experiencing the difference!
Learn more
What’s The Difference Between Shaving Cream and Shaving Gel?
So the time has come; you’re now in need of a shaving product to ensure that you get the best shave ever. But is it going to be shaving cream or gel? Is there even a difference between the two? The difference between shaving gel and cream is one that’s hard to define, and even seasoned users might not know what it is that makes the two different. But choosing the right product doesn’t only guarantee a better shaving experience, but fewer skin problems too. Here is what you should know about cream and gel, and how to determine which one would be more ideal for your needs. Timothy’s Skincare Shaving Cream The first shaving cream was invented by a former MIT professor in 1919, and while the shaving cream that’s used today is very different in terms of formulation and ingredients, it still retains the basic elements of the original variant. While shavers today have the freedom to choose between shaving cream or gel, most people in the past only had access to shaving soap, which didn’t easily create an effective layer for razors to smoothly glide on. Today, common shaving creams instantly lather up as you begin applying it to your skin and produce white foam when being used, but you might find that using traditional, high-foaming shaving creams often leaves you with knicks and cuts, which isn’t ideal when you want a clean and smooth shave. Timothy’s Shaving Cream for men and women, however, is an advanced, clinically tested formula that does not foam excessively. While foaming shaving creams are traditional, they are not necessary, and in fact, they quickly clog and dull razors and obstruct your view, often leading to knicks and cuts. Our shaving cream has a light and airy texture, which can make it easier for some people to use compared to gel. It is also incredibly moisturizing and penetrates the hair shaft so that a smooth and easy shave is possible. Timothy’s Skincare Shaving Gel Timothy’s non-foaming shaving gel has a clear consistency through and through. While it provides a slick surface for the user to work with, it does not lather up like a traditional shaving cream. It makes it easy to see where you are shaving, minimizing the possibility of getting knicks and cuts in the process. If you have thick hair follicles, you may need to leave it on the skin to soften the hair and prepare your skin for shaving. And whether you choose a shaving cream or gel, make sure that the targeted surface is clean before you start. Understanding what you need from your shaving experience is crucial to choose between shaving cream or gel. For those who don’t need to lather their shaving product before shaving, choosing a gel is a great choice. A gel can provide a slicker surface to shave compared to a traditional shaving cream as well. Difference Between Shaving Gel and Cream When it comes to choosing between shaving cream or gel, the choice is one that is inherently personal. It’s about your needs, and what will give you the best shave. Your skin type can also determine what kind of product will be best suited. Whether you are using a shaving cream or gel, you may find the friction between your razor and skin will be lessened, and that can help protect your skin. The consistency and texture of a cream and gel differ, which is mainly where you will also notice the difference. While a shaving cream is airy, a gel is slick with a lightweight consistency. What’s Best For Your Needs? Once you know the difference between shaving gel and cream, you can start thinking about which choice is more suited for your skin type. If you are someone who deals with sensitive skin, using a shaving cream that has irritating ingredients may not be the best choice. At Timothy’s, we understand the necessity of only having the best ingredients for your skincare, and that includes your shaving products. All of our products are fragrance-free, paraben-free, alcohol-free, cruelty-free, and SLS-free, allowing you to use them without worrying about your skin developing a rash or breaking out afterward. To understand what can suit your skin the best, it is ideal to check the ingredients of any shaving product you do end up buying. Look for alcohol-free and fragrance-free products that won’t dry out your skin or cause it to be irritated. If you are the type of person who prefers a traditional shaving experience, a shaving cream can be ideal for your needs. But we are confident that you will get a close, smooth shave with Timothy's shaving cream or gel. Choosing the Right Product for Your Skin Choosing the right shaving product means that you don’t have to worry about knicks, cuts, or a long shaving process. Whether you choose shaving cream or gel, both of them act as skin protectants while making it easier for the razor to remove hair. Make an informed decision the next time you’re shopping for a shaving product when you know what the difference between shaving gel and cream is! And if you are looking to invest in a high-quality shaving product, Timothy’s is here to help. Our uniquely formulated shaving cream and shaving gel help you achieve a close shave without getting knicks, cuts, or bumps in the process.
Learn more
What’s the Best Number of Razor Blades for Timothy’s Skincare Products?
Start searching for razors anywhere and you’ll quickly notice how many options there are with the number of razor blades. One blade, three blades, five blades – sometimes even more. Is having more blades actually better? Or does it not matter at all? We’re here to help you make the best choice for your personal shave routine. Keep reading to learn the best number of blades for shaving – and why. Double and Multiple Razor Blades From television advertisements to store shelves, we’re told that the more razor blades, the better. The main purpose of having multiple blades is to give you a closer shave than you’d get with just one blade. These razors are designed to cut with the leading blade, which is blunt. But to get the close shave, that first blade also slightly pulls or catches that hair from your skin in the process. The rest of the blades follow suit, continuing to pull your hair follicles so the razors can achieve a close shave. As the number of razor blades increases, this action is repeated, with each blade essentially performing clean-up duty for what the previous blade may have missed. With that being said, any man or woman in the market for a razor would assume that 5 or 6 is the best number of blades for shaving. But is that really true? Single Blades Before all of the multi-bladed razors of today, men used straight razors, which were a single blade. The first safety razors were introduced in the United States in the late 19th/early 20th century, offering men an easy and convenient way to shave at home; safety razors for women were introduced not long after. Single blade razors, just like the ones of decades prior, are designed to only shave the surface of your skin – no pulling at the hair. The Bigger the Better? Everyone wants a better shave, including wanting a closer shave, less skin irritation, and minimizing the chance of nicks and cuts. The number of razor blades on your shaving tool can have an impact on all those things. Since multi-bladed razors cut below the surface, they’re designed to give you a close shave. While that might lead you to believe that the best number of blades for shaving is as many as possible, excessive amounts of blades cause shaving irritation. The higher the number of razor blades added to your razor, the more that the actions of the primary and secondary blades are repeated. Essentially, this means that you’re continuously running razor blades across your skin. This mechanism can increase the possibility for razor burn, nicks and cuts, and ingrown hairs – which can then lead to razor bumps; and this is compounded when you use inferior or no shaving cream or gel. That’s not to say that single blades are without their issues. Single-bladed razors can only shave the hair that’s visible on the surface of your skin, limiting how close of a shave that you can get. Some may also need to apply more pressure to the razor or to pass the razor blade over their skin multiple times to shave all of their hair, which like a multi-bladed razor, can result in nicks, cuts, razor burn, and other shaving irritation. Achieving a Better Shave Whether you’re using a single blade, double blade, or a five-bladed razor, irritation is always possible, making it difficult to determine the best number of blades for shaving. It becomes even more difficult when you take into account differing skin types, varying hair thickness and texture, and the fact that hair can grow in different directions. While the number of razor blades is certainly going to have an effect on your shave, achieving a better shave starts with what you’re putting on your skin: your shaving cream and shaving gel. Applying shaving gel or cream isn’t just another unnecessary step in your shave routine. These products act as a protective layer between your skin and your razor, making the process a lot easier on your skin. They’re designed to hydrate your skin and soften your hair to make it easier to cut, combating against the drying effects of shaving by moisturizing your skin, and providing a slick layer that helps to reduce redness, razor burn, and shaving irritation. Shaving Routine Now that you know how essential shaving products are to your routine, you’re one step closer to your ideal shave. Many choose to start by splashing skin with warm water, since this opens pores, relaxes and loosens skin, and softens hair. Then they grab their shaving cream and razor with their chosen number of razor blades, and begin to shave. Now, the problem is you can’t see what you’re doing, your razor keeps getting clogged, and your skin is getting irritated from the shaving cream and repeated passes of your razor – even with a multi-bladed razor. We can’t stress just how much your shaving products can impact your shave, helping your razor do its job and do it well. Many traditional shaving creams produce a lot of foam and lather when they’re expelled from their containers. This is because they contain sulfates, agents used in laundry detergents, shampoos, soaps, and shaving products for their ability to create a lather effect. Though the lather gives the appearance of moisture and protection for a better shave, this isn’t always the case. The large amount of lather significantly decreases your visibility when you shave. It also clogs your razor, regardless of the number of razor blades you’re utilizing. The Solution Much like with the best number of blades for shaving, more doesn’t necessarily mean better when it comes to your shaving product. You don’t need a dense shaving product to shave properly; you need a moisturizing formula that doesn’t interfere with the number of razor blades. Timothy’s Skincare has formulated shaving products designed to help give you the shave you want, without irritating your skin or clogging your razor. Our shaving cream has a unique, non-foaming formula that helps give you a close and comfortable shave that doesn’t clog your razor blades, while our shaving gel is transparent to give you high visibility when you shave and help reduce nicks, cuts, and bumps that can occur with too dense of a foam. Both are HRIPT-tested and certified, meaning they’re free from harmful ingredients; they’re also hypoallergenic, sulfate- and paraben-free, alcohol-free, and safe for those with sensitive skin. With a more effective shaving product, you only need a base layer to allow any number of razor blades to glide across the skin. Best Number of Blades for Shaving With Cream or Gel Your shaving product is just as important as the number of razor blades, if not more. So, do you use shaving cream or shaving gel to achieve a clean shave with your razor? Though they’re both designed to protect your skin while you shave, choosing one or another could impact the closeness of your shave. The primary difference between the two is their consistency. Shaving cream has an airier texture, while gel is clear and lightweight. If you’re looking to get a close shave, gel may be the best option because of its transparency. Its transparency gives you high visibility, so you can see exactly what and where you’re shaving for a more precise finish. It also eliminates the need to press down too hard on the razor, which helps to reduce irritation. The formulation of gel has an impact on the number of razor blades you’re using, as well. Since single-bladed razors only shave on the surface of skin, they often may not provide the shave you’re looking for. Double and multi-bladed razors are designed to rectify this, with the blades slightly tugging hair to give you a close shave. However, too many razor blades can cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. While the best number of blades for shaving will vary depending on your skin type, hair texture, and shaving product, two or three blades should be enough for a clean shave. You get the benefits of the close shave multi-blades provide, with a lessened risk of shaving irritation. A higher number of razor blades will not result in a better shave – better shave preparation with your shaving gel will. With gel, a two-blade razor can be just as effective as a five-blade razor. The Number of Razor Blades Does Matter Your shaving product is just as important to achieving a better, smoother shave as the number of razor blades you use. Without quality products, we’re confident you won't get a great shave no matter how many blades you use. We suggest using a quality, sharp five blade razor to get the best shave possible, but even if you’re prepped with a five-blade razor, you may not get the shave you want if your blades get clogged and you can’t see anything you’re shaving. Timothy’s Skincare shaving products are designed to help you achieve the shave you want by offering you formulas that create a slick and moisturizing layer, and enable the razor to glide across your skin. For a confident shave with two blades or five, try Timothy’s Skincare products today!
Learn more
What Shaving Products are Harmful to Skin?
Ever since entering into the market in the 1940s, shaving products have provided people with fast and easy access to a smoother shave. There’s significant value in using gel and cream, offering benefits such as skin moisturization, helping to prevent nicks and shaving irritation, and enabling your razor to easily glide on your skin. Unfortunately, many shaving gels and creams contain less-than-helpful ingredients in their formulas – leaving your open pores vulnerable to a host of skin irritations. Timothy’s Skincare Shave Cream and Shave Gel have been specifically formulated to be free of common skin irritants, and all our products are HRIPT tested to ensure they are hypoallergenic Here are a few harmful shaving cream ingredients to avoid and which are purposefully not in Timothy’s Skincare products. Alcohol When shaving, as with any other skin care, you want moisturization. However, many shaving products contain alcohol – an ingredient known for being dehydrating. Since the alcohol family is large, it can be labeled under a myriad of names in your products, from ethylene glycol to benzyl alcohol. The problem is that alcohol also causes shaving irritations like dry skin, rashes, and dermatitis – all of which are the last things you want from your moisturizing shaving cream. Sulfates (SLS or SLES) Why are sulfates a shaving cream ingredient to avoid? Sulfates are extremely harsh and corrosive mineral salts that are often found in shaving creams and gels for their ability to help the product foam. They are also considered surfactants (detergents), because they bind to oils, fats, and dirt, and remove them from the surface. That’s why they can be found in so many cleansing products like soaps, shampoos, and laundry detergents. Sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, or SLS/SLES are all sulfates. These ingredients have been linked with shaving irritations like rashes and dry skin. This is the exact opposite effect you want during and after a shave. Dry skin in particular is one of the most common effects of sulfates, especially for those with sensitive skin. This is because sulfates can often end up removing too much oil, which removes the skin’s protective barrier and causes red, itchy, or dry skin. Fragrances One of the most common ingredients found in shaving products – and really most cosmetic products in general – is fragrance. Though they provide a range of scents that many love after grooming, the common allergen is also a huge contributor to shaving irritation for those of all skin types. It’s one of the leading reasons behind a long list of sensitivities, allergies, and reactions, including dry skin, contact dermatitis, rashes, and redness. For those with sensitive skin, it can also exacerbate inflammation, rosacea, and eczema, and cause other skin irritations. Fragrances in shaving products and other skin care products are often made using a combination of chemicals. But what’s even worse is that companies do not legally have to publicly disclose what specific chemicals those fragrances are made of. Whether it’s labeled as fragrance or as parfum, this is definitely one shaving cream ingredient to avoid. Isopentane Another shaving cream ingredient to avoid is isopentane, a colorless liquid that’s used as a solvent. It essentially helps the other chemicals and ingredients dissolve into others. Isopentane can also be used as an aerosol propellant, meaning it helps expel the shaving product from aerosol cans. While it seems harmless enough, this ingredient is a source of shaving irritation. Possible reactions to isopentane include dry skin and contact dermatitis. Parabens Parabens are a group of preservatives that are widely used in topical pharmaceutical products, skin care products, cosmetics, and even food. They’ve been used since the 1950s to extend products’ shelf life and prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. Why are they a shaving cream ingredient to avoid? Besides being linked to health conditions, parabens can cause shaving irritations and allergic reactions like dermatitis. They can be found by many names, all ending in “paraben,” such as methylparaben and butylparaben. Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) When it comes to shaving products, you definitely don’t want anything that could potentially be harmful to your skin – which is why you should avoid butylated hydroxytoluene or BHT. This ingredient is toluene-based, a chemical that is federally recognized as being one of the most toxic chemicals. Commonly used as a preservative in shaving creams and gels, it can cause serious skin and shaving irritation, along with other harmful conditions. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Believe it or not, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) – an ingredient often found in shaving products – is also the same chemical used to make Teflon, the non-stick cooking surface. It’s been linked to a host of shaving irritations and health conditions, like heart disease, osteoarthritis, and breast cancer. While we should note that PTFE needs to be heated to release its toxic fumes, it’s still not great to see it on a list of ingredients you’re applying to your skin, so you may want to avoid this shaving cream ingredient. Avoiding Shaving Irritation from Your Products Your skin is extremely vulnerable when you shave. In addition to exfoliating the top layer of your skin after shaving, the warm water that you use has opened your pores, enabling your shaving products to penetrate the skin even deeper. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of the ingredients that are harmful to the skin and can cause shaving irritation. Timothy’s high-quality formulas are free from skin irritants, like parabens, fragrances, alcohol, and sulfates, so you can get a better, more comfortable shave that keeps your skin happy. Learn more about our story or shop our shaving products designed for all skin today.
Learn more
Shaving Cream vs Shaving Gel: Which Is Right For You?
Getting a clean shave is something that men and women both want, yet struggle to achieve. On top of that, they face common shaving challenges like razor burn, irritation, and dry skin in their journey to get that coveted close shave. It’s recommended that you apply a shaving cream or gel to get the best results, but how do you know which is right for you? There’a great debate between shaving cream vs gel, with both sides arguing that one is better than the other. Keep reading to learn the difference between the two and whether shaving cream or gel is better for your needs. Shaving Cream Before we get into shaving cream vs gel, we should be clear about what shaving cream actually is. When most people think of shaving cream, the first thing that comes to mind are the products in aerosol cans. However, that’s a misnomer, because those are shaving foams – not cream. The product in the aerosol cans is accompanied by a lot of air, which creates the familiar, fluffy appearance. Shaving cream has a denser formula than foams, and can be applied with or without a small amount of water on your skin. Shaving Gel As its name indicates, this product comes in the form of a gel, with a thicker consistency. When dispensed, shaving gel comes out clear – unlike shaving creams, which appear fluffy and white. They are also usually slicker than cream. Shaving Cream vs Gel So, is shaving cream or gel better? It comes down to your preference and the features you’re looking for in your shaving product. Are you looking for more visibility with your shaving product? Does your skin need more moisturization? Considerations like these will help guide which product is best for you. Lather Some men and women want to have the classic rich lather experience when they shave. This feature is one of the biggest differences in shaving cream vs gel. When most shaving creams are combined with a little water, a thick, soapy lather is created. However, this actually provides no useful benefit. On the contrary, it can make it difficult to shave because it obscures what you’re doing, and the foam is caused by sulfates which may cause skin irritation. All gels, on the other hand, tend to produce less lather. Does that mean shaving gel is better than cream when it comes to lather? For most shaving products – yes. But with Timothy’s Skincare, all our premium shaving products are non-foaming and irritant-free. Consistency Another factor to consider with shaving cream vs gel is the consistency of your product. While it may not seem as important, it’s a huge issue encountered by those looking for a closer shave. Why is it such a big deal? When shaving gels and creams are too thick or dense, they can clog razors quickly – which is a cause of common shaving issues like nicks, ingrown hairs, and razor burn. Any shaving product can build up on razor blades over time, especially if you’re not rinsing after every pass, but thicker and high-foaming consistencies will definitely cause your razor blades to clog, increasing your rinsing, and overall shave time. That’s why we’ve made sure Timothy’s Shave Cream and Shave Gel are carefully formulated to minimize clogging of razors. Moisturization and Skin Protection If you have sensitive skin or skin prone to dryness, the level of moisturization and protection are vastly important when considering shaving cream vs gel. You don’t want to sacrifice the health or comfort of your skin just for the sake of a close shave. Both of Timothy’s Shave Gel and Shave Cream are designed to give you a close shave and protect your skin from the sharp blades of razors. They are both formulated to be gentle for all skin types while simultaneously hydrating your skin as you shave. That’s why determining whether shaving cream or gel is better is easy as pie when you shop at Timothy’s Skincare. Many other brands’ shaving products, particularly gels, have been formulated using alcohol, a known skin irritating and drying ingredient. On the other hand, most creams also contain skin-irritating ingredients like sulfates and fragrances which also leave your skin feeling dry. Shaving Cream vs Gel: Razor Glide Whether you have plenty of time to shave or you’re in a rush, you want your razor to easily glide closely and smoothly across your skin to avoid any irritation or discomfort. Your shaving product plays a huge role in achieving this result, and it all has to do with the consistency and moisture. Timothy’s Skincare premium shaving products moisturizes your skin, doesn’t clog your razor with excessive foaming, and since they don’t foam, they let you see where you’re shaving. Because of those three features, you can expect a better, closer glide than other shaving products on the market. And that’s not to mention that all of Timothy’s products are HRIPT-tested and free of common skin irritants! Is Shaving Cream or Gel Better? Using a shaving product is a must-have to provide a slick, smooth layer of protection for your skin and help prevent dryness caused by shaving. So, which is best in the great shaving cream vs gel debate? The truth is, there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to Timothy’s Skincare. Consider the features that matter most to you with shaving cream vs gel. Shaving cream is an excellent option for when you want a more traditional shave experience. Shaving gel is great if you like a more slick-feeling product. Both are the choice for increased shaving visibility, added moisturization, and achieving a better razor glide without skin irritation. Choosing Shaving Cream vs Gel Regardless of your skin type or what you’re shaving, you should choose a product that offers you moisturization and protection, and is free from alcohols and irritating ingredients. Knowing the difference between shaving cream and shaving gel helps you make a more informed decision about which works best for you. Finding the right shaving product for your skin is the first step toward achieving a better, closer shave. For a confident shave, there is no wrong choice when using Timothy’s Skincare.
Learn more
The Causes of Razor Burn
Since shaving is something you have to do every day, you might as well learn to do it correctly. Many men assume they’re shaving the right way, especially if they’ve been shaving for a long time, but that isn’t always the case. If you’re starting to notice any type of razor irritation, such as redness or bumpiness, not to worry because it is usually caused by one of several different scenarios, but once you know what they are, you can easily fix it. What is Razor Burn? Razor burn can be identified by a red rash that has streaks in it or a small patch of skin that is irritated and red. Razor burn can sting, itch, swell, and become very tender to the touch, none of which are pleasant. Razor burn is different from razor bumps, which cause tiny red bumps on your face, usually in the same location. Nevertheless, here are some things you can do to prevent razor burn when you shave: 1. Make Sure Your Skin is Wet Some people, in an effort to shave quickly, put either no water or very little water on their face first, but this is one of the main razor burn causes. Dry skin will always get irritated when the razor glides over it, which is why you always need to have a wet face before you shave, and make sure you use a shaving cream or shaving gel for less irritation. The gel or cream allows for the razor to glide over your face more easily and more smoothly. Even if you’re in a hurry, always resist the temptation to shave your face when it’s completely dry because you need at least some moisture on the skin to avoid any type of razor irritation. 2. Don’t Use Too Many Strokes It is very tempting to stroke the skin more than once, but it’s simply not necessary. In fact, most areas of the skin need only one stroke, possibly two, in order to get the job done, yet the average man uses roughly three times more strokes than they need. When you’re considering the main razor burn causes, keep this one in mind because it is important. Remember: one or two strokes per section of skin, and that’s it. 3. Always Use the Right Products First of all, if you have sensitive skin, then you should be using only products made specifically for sensitive skin. This means no soap and no products that contain alcohol, sulfates, menthol, preservatives, or any type of fragrance or perfume. At Timothy’s Skincare, all of our products are made for people with sensitive skin, so you can order all of them without this concern. 4. Make Sure You Shave in the Right Direction When you’re looking for the causes of your razor burn, this one might seem immaterial, but in fact it is crucial to shave in the direction that the hair is growing, not against it. This allows for a cleaner and more efficient shave and therefore, a lot less razor irritation that can cause a burning sensation and a lot of discomfort. Shaving in the right direction also allows the hairs to stand up better, which also results in a more comfortable shave. 5. Don’t Shave Too Fast Even if you’re in a hurry, never shave too quickly. This inadvertently causes you to use too many strokes and ignore obvious problems, such as your face being too dry. Simply put, one of the main razor burn causes includes not paying attention to what you’re doing and therefore going way too fast to do the job properly. Always take your time when you’re shaving any part of your body! 6. Never Press Too Hard with the Blade This one is a no-brainer, but you might be surprised by how many people do it anyway. Once again, if you’re in a hurry, it’s even easier to stroke your face with too much pressure, which in some cases can automatically cause irritation and redness. Too much pressure does not equal removing more hair from your face; it just means you’re getting too much irritation but nothing else. 7. Always Make Sure Your Razor Blade is Sharp When it comes to the causes of razor burn, using a dull blade is a common culprit. Most experts recommend changing your razor blade every 4-5 shaves, but some people need to replace it even more often than that. Dull blades can cause a lot of razor irritation that may not be felt until after your shave is complete, which naturally is too late to prevent the irritation from occurring. A nice sharp blade means a much more efficient and comfortable shave every time. 8. Make Sure You Use a Moisturizer After You Shave After your shave is complete, you should apply a moisturizer to the skin, which can be either lotion or even an oil. After you shave, wait just a few minutes to let the skin pores settle a little, then apply the moisturizer. Even if you finish shaving and your skin feels fine, it needs a good moisturizer to help it heal better after shaving, which is always at least a little harsh on the skin. What to Do If You Suffer with Razor Irritation If you haven’t been following the tips mentioned above, you might not be familiar with the razor burn causes and therefore, you might have red or irritated skin right now. If you’re currently suffering with any type of razor burn or irritation, you can: Buy a higher-quality 5 blade razor Always use short strokes Place a cool washcloth over your face for about 5 minutes Rinse the blade often, preferably after 1-2 strokes Consider applying a light layer of moisturizer before you shave Conclusion Taking care of your skin requires knowing some of the main causes of razor burn and all types of razor irritation, but the good news is that once you get into the routine of abiding by these rules, you’ll worry less and less about any type of burning or stinging on your skin. It is actually very simple to avoid these problems so you won’t have to deal with them again.
Learn more
Shaving: The Best Routine for Sensitive Skin
If you like to stay clean-shaven, you already know that you’re going to have to shave every single day. Shaving is a routine that most men just accept as part of getting ready for the day. That being said, if you dread this part of your morning because you’re tired of dryness or bumps, don’t give up just yet because there are things you can do about the problem. Even better, these things are very simple to do. The best shaving routine is the same whether or not you have sensitive skin. Eliminating harsh chemicals from your shaving routine and treating your skin well will pay off in the long run even if those things don’t affect your skin in the short term. It starts with purchasing the right razor and the right shaving gel or shaving cream, but the right shaving routine for sensitive skin involves a little more than that. Let’s take a look at some of the things you should ask yourself before you start shaving. 1. Is My Face Clean? The best shaving routine always starts with a clean face. Make sure you use a cleansing product that is specifically made for sensitive skin; otherwise, it can strip your skin of the oils necessary to keep it healthy. Always stay away from soap-based products, and use warm water – not hot or cold – to rinse your face. Products recommended by dermatologists that are free of dyes and perfumes work best, and never use anything known to be an antibacterial product. Finally, you’ll want to wait 10-15 minutes after you clean your face and before you start to shave. This gives your skin’s pores some time to “settle” and get ready for the next step. A good shaving routine for sensitive skin requires that the skin be ready for each step of the process. 2. Am I Shaving the Correct Way? Yes, the way you shave makes a big difference, which is surprising to many people. The best shaving routine starts with a razor that is sharp. In addition, razors with 5 blades are known to produce a closer shave. Why? Because the blades tend to be closer together, which means that when they glide across your skin, they’ll pick up only the hair and no skin. This results in a shave that is both much more comfortable and a lot closer in the end. You should also rinse the blade well after each stroke. Otherwise, too much gel may remain on it and prevent you from getting a close shave. When you’re aiming for a shaving routine for sensitive skin, this is important. It is also important to know that if you feel like you have to shave the same area more than once to remove the hair, it’s likely time for a new razor blade. 3. Am I Using the Right Gel/Cream? It’s easy to realize that the best shaving routine starts with applying a shaving gel or cream before you get started, but are all of these products alike? No, they are not, which is why choosing the right product requires a little beforehand knowledge. Simply put, not all shaving gel is alike, but if you start with a product that is clear and doesn’t foam up, you’re off to a good start. If you’re wondering why, it’s because products that create a lot of foam make it difficult to see where you’re shaving, causing you to perhaps miss spots or shave over the same spot too many times, which can cause irritation. At Timothy’s Skincare, we make shaving gel and cream that produce no foam and therefore, they make shaving correctly a lot easier. 4. Do I Always Take Care of My Skin After I Shave? The right shaving routine for sensitive skin requires some care after you’re finished shaving, so this step should never be skipped. Once you’re done shaving, go ahead and rinse your face with warm water and pat it dry with a clean dry towel. Make sure you don’t rub your face with the towel but instead, pat it gently. Wait a few minutes, then apply some type of moisturizing lotion or oil, but make sure it’s a product specifically made for sensitive skin. Other Tips to Follow As you can tell, most of the tips we included describing the best shaving routine require products made for sensitive skin, and as a general rule, this is always the best tip to follow. Other tips include: Drink plenty of water during the day to keep your skin hydrated Change the blade after 4-5 uses When moisturizing, consider using aloe, emu, or almond oil for the best results Keep in mind that when you want your shaving routine to be the best, we make a super high-tech 5 blade razor and the clear gel or cream to go with it, providing you with all of the tools you need to shave each morning without it irritating your skin. Our products are free of parabens, sulfates, alcohol, and fragrances, and we never test them on animals. You also need to consider that when your skin is sensitive, you should at the very least read the list of ingredients in any skincare product that you use. There are certain irritants in many of today’s shaving products, which should be avoided. Look for ingredients such as alcohol, any type of fragrance, menthol, camphor, and sulfates, which can also be called SLS or lauryl sulfate. Of course, rather than poring over the list of ingredients in any shaving gel or cream in the store, you can use products specifically made for sensitive skin, which is the number-one rule of any best shaving routine. At Timothy’s Skincare, all of our products are made this way. Conclusion Getting into the best shaving routine isn’t as complicated as you think. By making just a few simple changes, you can have skin that is a lot healthier, more supple, and has much fewer bumps and redness. The right shaving routine for sensitive skin is super-easy to follow once you get used to it, and you’ll soon be wondering how you ever lived without doing these things.
Learn more