There are so many shaving products available on the market now, as well as actual razors.  Between electric razors, 3,4 and 50 blades (you watch it’s happening!), this can all become very confusing. 

What men and women need to realize is that when they shave they are causing two key effects: 1. You are exfoliating the skin, 2. You are cutting the hair at the furthest available surface in a straight edge.

Shaved hair is more prone to ingrown hairs, and small infections.  This is because the hair is cut straight and has no point to break through the skin.  The hair then grows below the surface of the skin and begins to spiral.  From this point it becomes a bump and usually appears red and infected.

When you shave whether you’re a man or a woman, there are a few points to keep in mind.  When you use a non-electric razor you need to apply a shaving cream/gel to the skin first.  I know many women who claim their body wash provides a great shave.  That's usually not the case.  Shave gels give the skin protection from irritation.  This gives the skin a slip for the razor to glide without causing excess friction resulting in “razor burn.” A sharp, clean razor is most important.  Dull blades can cut and tear the skin leaving it vulnerable to infection.

The skin should be cleansed first before shaving, rinsed thoroughly with clear water and moisturized last.  This is the best way to get a good shave and keep the skin clear of blemishes, ingrown hairs, and infections.  Specifically for underarms, you need to cleanse really well and get all deodorant residue off the skin.  Then for the best possible underarm shave, shave with the direction of hair growth, then re-lather and shave the opposite.  Some people may find this irritating, but if you aren’t too sensitive, this is the best underarm shave and lasts the longest.  (Try to go a few hours with out deodorant right after you shave, or try deodorants with moisturizers built in.

For most people, they can shave “against the grain.”  (Shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth).  If you know your skin can’t handle it, don’t do it.  You’ll just end up with irritated, red skin.

Don’t use AHA’s on the skin right after shaving because it will burn, but try to exfoliate the day before you shave, (not the day of), always moisturize afterward.