While perhaps not the longest lasting form of hair removal, shaving is so popular because it is cost effective, quick, and easy for most of us who are always on the run.   It won’t cost you much to buy razors, shaving cream, and any post shaving treatments you decide to use, while it could set you back $50 to $80 per hour for hair removal via electrolysis. While low-tech and cheap, shaving is nonetheless effective.

Despite the positives of shaving, though, there are some bizarre, head-scratching, eyebrow-raising myths that have been so often repeated that they have almost become fact to some people. But a myth, no matter how often repeated or widely spread, is still a myth.

In order to shed some light on the matter, here are 10 shaving myths you need to stop believing:

Shaving Causes Hair to Grow Back Quicker & Darker

While this statement has been made many times over the years, there simply isn’t an ounce of truth to it. Your hair, when it does finally grow back after shaving it, will be the same color that it was before. It might appear as though it is a bit darker in hue, however, since it will obviously be shorter as it starts to grow back. This may contribute to the illusion that it’s darker. However, you will notice that it really is the same color as before if you allow your hair to grow back.

Shaving Causes Ingrown Hairs

This one might catch you by surprise, but shaving itself is not the root cause of ingrown hairs. What really leads to ingrown hairs is the state of the skin and the blade. You can reduce, if not eliminate the chances of, ingrown hairs if you exfoliate and regularly replace your razor blades. So if you plan to shave with a razor, exfoliate first so that hair does not poke back down into your skin as it begins to grow back.

Hair Becomes More Coarse When it Grows Back

Even though your hair will feel coarser than per usual as it starts to grow back, it will be back to its normal texture as it gets back to the length it was before you cut it.

There’s Nothing Wrong with Dry Shaving

Even if you’re pressed for time, it’s never a good idea to dry shave — which refers to putting razor to skin without the benefit of some sort of lubricating agent like shaving cream. If you do dry shave, you will have to deal with problems like skin irritation and possibly cuts that can lead to infection. So take the time to provide your skin with the proper moisture before you begin shaving.

New Razors Nick More than Used Razors

It goes without saying that a new razor will be sharper than a used one, but instances where people cut themselves with a new razor are usually a function of them putting too much downward pressure on the razor. So simply don’t press down too hard. Also consider that a cut from an older razor is actually worse than a cut from a new razor since the latter can lead to infections on account of the bacteria that is on the razor. Also, a new razor’s sharper blades will scrape your skin less, which will help you avoid razor burns and ingrown hairs.

It’s Okay to Put On Deodorant Right After You Shave Your Armpits

It’s a good idea to avoid using deodorant right after you shave your armpits. While it might possibly be okay if your deodorant is has no fragrance or alcohol, why take the chance? It’s better to wait at least one hour after you shave your armpits to apply deodorant. That way, you’ll be able to avoid any irritation that might otherwise occur.

It’s Alright to Keep Razors in the Shower

This is a no-no. While the razor will obviously get wet when in use, you will still need to wash it off, dry it, and store it in a dry place between uses. If your razor is kept in a wet place like the shower, it can become home to bacteria and rust. So store it in a dry place to avoid these complications.

You Should Shave Right After Getting into the Shower

For best results, you should allow the hot or warm water to soften your hair before you use your razor. So you can take your usual shower or bath and then end things by shaving.

More Pressure Means a Better Shave

While it might seem logical that pressing down harder will result in a closer shave, the truth is that this not only untrue, but also potentially dangerous. The way that the razor blades are positioned is already designed to provide a close shave with good contact with the skin. If you press down too hard, you could be left with cuts, and these cuts could go on to become infected.

You Can Head to the Beach Right After Shaving

Actually, you shouldn’t go to the beach or swimming right after shaving, particularly if you have sensitive skin. If your skin is sensitive and not properly hydrated, it can become dried out. Then you could potentially be susceptible to rashes if your dry skin comes into contact with salt water or sand from the beach. Instead, shave at least one day prior to going down to the sea shore.

These 10 shaving myths have been repeated so often over the years and decades that they’ve almost gained the status of common knowledge. The problem with this, of course, is that common knowledge is sometimes very wrong. And this is definitely the case when it comes to shaving myths that have made the rounds. Understanding what’s true and what’s false can help you to get the best results and to avoid problems. So stop holding on to fables that might be compromising your shaving experience. Happy shaving!

Both men and women are susceptible to unsightly razor bumps that appear after shaving, waxing, or plucking the hair. Razor bumps, which manifest as red, irritated, and even itchy areas of inflammation on the skin, are a direct result of the hair removal process.

While razor bumps are a common condition that many people experience, there are still many people who do not fully understand the causes or how to properly treat them. If you have ever asked, “What are razor bumps and how do I stop them?” Here are a few quick tips on how to effectively prevent them for a smoother appearance.

So, What are Razor Bumps Really?

Razor bumps, also referred to as pseudofolliculitis barbae or razor burn, are painful bumps that can appear on the skin after shaving. These bumps can show up almost immediately or they can take a few days to develop.

There are two types of razor bumps. The first, extrafollicular, occurs when the individual hair follicle curls back into the skin after shaving. When the skin heals, the hair becomes trapped underneath the skin, resulting in unpleasant pimple-like bumps, soreness, and inflammation.

The second type of razor bump, transfollicular, occurs when the hair grows out of the skin but then reenters it, leaving a portion of the hair exposed. Overtime, if the razor bumps are not given the proper care and attention they need, you may end up with permanent scars!

What Causes Razor Bumps?

While anyone can get razor bumps, those with curly or tightly coiled hair are more prone to developing them. Razor bumps can also be the direct result of poor hair removal techniques. . Not properly preparing the skin prior to shaving can also cause these bumps.

Dry shaving is a culprit as well, so properly moisturizing the skin and hairs is a crucial first step prior to shaving. Also, using a thick shaving gel helps the blade glide along the face, for a much smoother shave. High-quality shavers (whether disposable or electric) can also help to reduce the likelihood of razor bumps. Replace blades often and according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best outcome.

Solutions for Razor Bumps

One of the best ways to get rid of razor bumps is to improve your personal shaving techniques.  Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Properly moisturize the skin prior to shaving. Always use a quality silicone-based shave gel to moisturize the area that is to be shaved.
• Replace razor blades often. Old, dull blades will only irritate and scrape against the skin, increasing the likelihood of ingrown hairs and bumps.
• Follow-up shaving by rinsing with cool water, as this closes the pores. For aftercare, use a moisturizing cream or other skincare product to keep the skin soft, reducing the likelihood and appearance of razor bumps.
• Lastly, hold off on shaving if razor bumps are currently present. This is important because it will give the skin the necessary time it needs to properly heal itself.

Rest assured that with the proper skin care routine, razor bumps can be a concern of the past!

Ingrown hairs, those that have curled back into the skin instead of growing away from it, can be a painful nuisance. This condition can impact men and women alike. When trying to remove hair, there are approaches that make people more susceptible to ingrown hairs.

Ingrown hairs look like a small bump or group of bumps on the skin. They can become red and irritated and itch or feel otherwise uncomfortable. In men, ingrown hairs are most common on the chin, cheeks, or neck. Ladies suffer from this condition generally on their legs, pubic areas, or armpits.

If you want to avoid ingrown hairs, then here are four ways of removing hair that you should stay away from.

Shaving with Dull or Clogged Razors

Shaving is one of the most common hair removal techniques that both men and women use on a regular basis. While a simple process, overlooking certain key issues can lead to painful ingrown hairs. Using a dull or unclean razor is one way that causes hairs to curl back into the skin.

Dull razors can scrape the skin causing irritation, which leads to ingrown hairs. Sharp, new blade razors should be used in conjunction with a thick shaving gel. Discard razors after 6-8 uses to best avoid developing razor bumps.

Shaving without Shaving Gels

Shaving gels protect the skin from being tugged and scraped by the blade. Without shaving gels, both men and women are more prone to experience cuts and nicks during the process. Shaving gel will help to keep your skin hydrated and make the hair easier to cut.

Failure to Exfoliate Before Waxing

Waxing can lead to ingrown hairs if it’s not carefully done.In fact, waxing is one of the worst culprits for causing ingrown hairs. To guard against this condition in waxed areas, exfoliating is a vital tool. It buffs away dead skin cells that build up and prevent new hair growth from emerging from the clogged pores!

Using Depilatory Creams

Depilatory creams contain chemicals that dissolve the hair at the skin’s surface. They offer an inexpensive alternative to shaving. They are also less painful than waxing. In this case, the hair is dissolved rather than being cut which does reduce the risk. However, ingrown hairs can still result from the use the depilatory creams. To minimize irritation that can lead to ingrown hairs, it’s best to use the creams according to the directions and not leave them on longer than suggested – no longer than 5 minutes.

While these creams are less painful, they can be harsh for those with very sensitive skin. They also posses a strong odor that can be a problem.

Hair removal is an essential part of the grooming process. Paying attention to key issues associated with your technique of choice will help you avoid irritation and the ingrown hairs that  make the hair removal process a pain.

If you’re planning a trip to the spa, be careful. When it comes to waxing intimate parts of our body, there should be clear sets of needs and expectations in place. When exposing our skin and hair follicles to this type of an invasive treatment, we’re opening ourselves to all sorts of infection, so keeping an eye open for salon red flags is a must.

These treatments are given OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Association) protection practices, guidelines and laws that are put into place to avoid harming customers. But this doesn’t mean these establishments are following these rules and regulations to the letter of the law on a daily basis.

As smart consumers, we must open our eyes and be on the lookout for potential problems before we commit to using these services, especially when removing hair from our body. Let’s look at seven important salon red flags that could burn you as a customer:

1 – Forms First

Even when going to see our physician for a routine checkup, the office always give you a form to fill out, whether or not your information has changed. There needs to be some documentation (or at the very least an in depth conversation) about your vital information, new or existing allergies and other potentially problematic data to consider before your session.

2 – Garnishing Gloves

Your technician should always be wearing gloves, always! Again no matter how routine or regular the procedure or your familiarity with this individual, this is simply a must!

3 – Out of Pocket

Tools of the trade (like tweezers) should never be seen in the pockets of these workers, even if they’re simply carrying them away after your treatment. They should always be kept in a safe and sterile environment and not travelling around in someone’s pocket in between applications. You never know where they’ve been or where they’re going!

4 – Wax On – Wax Off

When getting a waxing, make sure the pots being used are for you and you alone. They should be clean, fresh and not leftover from a previous treatment. In the same light, keep an eye on the spatulas or other tools that are being used as they shouldn’t be laying around inside the waxing pots when not in use. Think of it this way, since the practice of “double-dipping” is unacceptable at parties, it shouldn’t be a part of your salon experience either.

5 – After Care

These skin-care professionals should always recommend detailed instructions and products for aftercare following their services instead of simply giving you an invoice at the end of this visit. These providers need to care about you and your ongoing health, not just when you’re paying the bill.

6 – Language Barriers

If you feel there is a language barrier with the staff, this could be a huge, potentially problematic situation. Confusion leads to chaos and communication is key with any type of service being rendered, especially when it comes to something being performed on your body. Trust your gut, especially when it comes to things happening with your skin in a salon where you may feel uncomfortable communicating.

7 – A Clean Environment

This almost goes without saying, but this entire environment should always be completely clean and pristine at all times, everywhere from the lobby to the restrooms. The only possible exception is that one of the staff is actively cleaning an area when you arrive that seems to be out of place or unclean.

Even though it may seem like a routine and regular visit, cleanliness, a completely sterile environment, safety practices, and legal measures are put into place for a reason – your overall health and safety. You never know where (or when) a little slip might cause a big problem for your body and health.