When it comes to shaving, there are so many false myths that we used to believe in our everyday life. It's about time the world of science creates a separate department dedicated to Myth Debunking.
Otherwise, people would continue to believe that shaving your beard grows back darker and thicker hair and that a new razor can result in more cuts and nicks.
In this post, we've listed down some of the most common shaving rumors, half-truths, myths that are completely untrue or are relevant from fibs...
Myth 1: Your Hair Grows Thicker After Shaving (FALSE)
Let's be honest, there's a 98% chance you've heard about how your hair grows thicker, faster, and darker once you shave it. Well, to debunk this myth, it's completely wrong. The thickness of your facial hair is dependent on your hormones and genetics, it has nothing to do with shaving.
A razor blade cuts away your hair at the skin's surface which ultimately left you with blunt ends, that are already thicker and darker. This doesn't mean that the new hair grown will follow the same path. In fact, it will be the same as it was before.
So, the next time you shave, just keep your expectation normal.
PS: If you want thicker hair, you can definitely try our Pre-shave oil paired with Beard oil. The combination is just marvelous for beard growth.
Myth 2: Pressing Harder provides a cleaner shave (FALSE)
Do you know why you get all those cuts and nicks? It's because you press your skin too hard with a razor. Maintain the razor flat on your skin and gently glide it to get a perfect shaving experience. Use products such as shaving butter to make your skin softer and to help the razor glide smoothly.
Read More:Â What is the difference between shaving butter and cream?
If a few hairs remain after you're done shaving, you can just repeat the process. There's no need to apply force to get a high-quality shave.
Myth 3: It is better to shave in the morning (TRUE)
Why? Well, after working outside all day, your skin is more sensitive and has a buildup of pollution and all the dirt. Shaving your beard in such condition can cause nicking and irritation.
In the morning, after a perfect sleep, your face is restored and super-charged with all the natural skin elements. So, reach for your razor before you go anywhere because morning is the best time to shave.
Myth 4: Only a barber can get you that perfect shaving (FALSE)
Yes, a barber has experience in shaving and could possibly have the best equipment to do this, but now that we have access to innovative and comfortable razors, you don't need to go to a salon.
In fact, shaving at home saves time and ensures that everything you use is organic and fresh. Some of the other perks of shaving at home include:
- Better shaving experience with fewer cuts and nicks
- Sensational hot towel shave in your own bathroom
- A variety of shaving liquids to choose from
Myth 5: New Sharp razors can cause more cuts (FALSE)
In fact, it's the complete opposite. Your old blade can cause more problems than a new one. A dull blade pulls your skin's moisture and makes it dull post-shave.
A new blade is actually sharp to get the experience done in just one glide. Using a new razor also ensures that you get a smooth shave, for the same purpose it effectively removes your hair. If you feel like your blade is getting dull, it's time to change it.
PS: It is recommended to change your blade after 1 to 2 weeks of use (if you use it daily). However, the actual time depends on your razor blade as well. Some blades even last for up to 4 weeks.
Myth 6: Using hot water helps with the shaving (TRUE)
Hot water or a hot shower can help dilate your pores and soften the facial hair. To make the experience fun, it is recommended to cleanse your face with lukewarm water. After this, use a pre-shave oil and then apply your favorite shave butter to complete the experience.
Myth 7: Soap is more than enough for shaving (FALSE)
We can all agree men can be lazy when it comes to hair or skin care. We use to bathe, clean, and even shave with the same soap. And surprisingly, it works all the time. But unfortunately, soap doesn't double as a shaving lubricant. Shaving butter can add moisture and ensure that your blade glides easily on your skin. While the soap actually retains the moisture, leading to dull and dry skin.
Also Read: Best Shaving Cream Alternatives
The same goes for shaving your other body parts, such as arms and legs. A specially designed butter-cream is the way to go.
Myth 8: It's fine to dry shave (FALSE)
Wet shaving is the same as dry shaving, right? Well, technically it's wrong, especially when it comes to beard shaving. Dry shaving can cause severe irritation, so you should avoid it at all costs. Use some sort of lubricant to get a smooth and relaxing shaving experience.
Myth 9: Shaving products can cause irritation and rashes (FALSE)
Yes, if you have sensitive skin or you're allergic to a specific ingredient. There are a lot of shaving products in the market that can cause rashes and irritation. The best strategy is to use products that are made of natural and organic ingredients such as butter, essential oils, waxes, etc.
And one of the best products we recommend in this category is shaving butter.
Shaving butter, as the name suggests, is a product made of natural butter and essential oil. It has low lather as compared to cream and gels, as it packs no chemicals. The texture of the butter helps keep the razor from getting clogged on your skin, preventing cuts and nicks.
It is a perfect product to add to your shaving arsenal.
Myth 10: Exfoliating before shaving reduces the risk of Ingrown hairs (TRUE)
Shaving bumps, also known as razor bumps are the result of ingrown hair that develops on your skin after shaving. Mostly, they are the result of hair growing in opposite direction. The best way to deal with ingrown hair is to exfoliate your skin and make sure it's damp and clean.
Also Read:Â How to get rid of shaving bumps, razor bumps, and ingrown hair?
As shaving cleanses, the obstructed pores on your skin, you should get rid of dead cells before you shave. For this, you can use an exfoliator to gently scrub and massage your skin for one or two minutes.
Myth 11: You don't have to wash your facial hair (FALSE)
Not specific to post-shaving, but quite helpful if you have a beard. It's a common myth that your facial hair doesn't need washing. Think about it, does it actually make sense?
But what about using soap? Well, a regular soap contains sulfates, an ingredient that is used to make the product lather. Using too much lather on your skin can soak up its natural moisture, resulting in dull, itchy, and dry hair.
Wash your beard with a sulfate-free shampoo, just as much as you wash your hair.
Myth 12: It is OK to borrow someone else's razor blade (FALSE)
No... Never do this! Using someone else's razor blade can cause infection if you get a cut or nick. Razor blades are designed separately for each body part. You never know where your partner might have used that razor. Always buy a separate razor for your individual need.