Skincare is not a popular topic among many men. Skincare takes time and often we don't feel like applying sticky creams to our skin. But if you have a dry, flaky skin after shaving, you do want to take care of it. A red, painful, chapped, and itchy skin is no fun and not good for your self-confidence. In that case, moisturizers come into play.
The science behind the causes of dry skin
The idea of "my skin will fix itself" is wishful thinking and solves nothing. To achieve healthy and itch-free skin, it's best to "listen" to your skin and give attention to what it needs. Unfortunately, the search for the right and effective care is not simple. To find the right solution for the problem, you first need to understand what dry skin is.
One of the main causes of dry skin is a decrease in the production of natural oils (sebum) in the skin. It doesn't matter if you work in construction or in the financial world, because the causes of dry skin are both external and internal. Internal factors include aging, genetics, or certain medical conditions. External factors include fragranced shaving products, exposure to harsh chemicals, showering with hot water, or frequently working outside in cold weather. These factors can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness. Shaving, shaving soaps, and the razor further irritate dry skin.
What should a moisturizer do?
A good moisturizer ensures that the skin retains moisture better and contains little to no perfume or fragrances. Many moisturizers contain so-called hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and substances that nourish and soothe the skin, for example, vitamins C and E.
Tips for restoring dry and irritated skin after shaving
The secret to healthy and fresh skin is not that complicated. But it is essential to add the following steps during and after shaving to your morning routine. We call this the "smooth operator routine":
Before shaving
- Wash your face with warm (not hot!) water. When you wash your face with warm water, the pores open and the hair follicles soften. This means less force is needed for a successful shave.
- Use a pre-shave cream or oil.
- Use a classic neutral shaving soap or shaving cream without perfume and alcohol.
- Shave with a safety razor instead of a multi-blade cartridge razor.
After shaving
- Wash your face with cold water to soothe the skin and close the pores.
- Apply a moisturizer to hydrate the skin, retain the skin's natural moisture, and soothe the skin. Additionally, the moisturizer helps protect the skin by forming a barrier over the affected area. Applying a moisturizer is the most important step for soft skin after shaving. Also, don't forget to shave with the grain, without pressing the razor too hard against the skin.
