For many women, facial hair is one of the main sources of insecurity. While fine, almost invisible strands are normal, dark and thick hair can point to an underlying health condition that may not yet be severe.
For example, hirsutism is one of the most common symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It leads to dark hair growth in male-pattern areas such as the jawline, chin, and upper lip. This happens due to elevated levels of androgen, a male hormone, and one of the easiest ways to get rid of the hair is shaving.
Yes, shaving is a cost-efficient, hassle-free, and painless method to get rid of facial or body hair from the comfort of your home. Dr Gurveen Waraich, MBBS, MD, from Garekars MD Dermatology Clinics, recently took to Instagram to share, “Face shaving is one of the easiest, safest, and fastest methods of hair removal.”
Busting myths around the subject, she added that it does not increase the rate of hair growth or cause the strands to grow thick. She further shared the right way to shave your face to avoid redness, burns, and cuts.
Never Shave A Dry Face
“Never do dry shaving,” advised Dr Waraich. You might think that you will get a clean and smooth shave, but it can lead to redness because a sharp blade can be harsh on dry skin. Using some sort of gel or moisturiser helps it glide smoothly and gives you the smooth finish you have been expecting. In fact, many brands have shaving foam for women, or you can use aloe vera for its cooling and soothing effect.
Shave In The Direction Of Growth
While you may be tempted to shave in the opposite direction of hair growth, it is one of the worst methods. The dermatologist advised against it, adding that one must shave in the direction of hair growth. Not only does it prevent irritation, but it also helps you avoid nicks, razor burns, and ingrown hair, which can be painful and leave marks on the skin.
Avoid Using Actives During Skincare
The expert suggested avoiding skincare products with active ingredients on the day of shaving. When you shave or wax, the skin is vulnerable, and the pores are open. Active ingredients, especially retinoids, AHAs, and BHAs, can increase irritation and cause redness. The only thing you should use is a generous amount of moisturiser, which will prevent your skin from drying out. With shaving, you can start using actives the next day, but with waxing, you may want to wait for a couple of days.
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