If you've got acne, shaving can be a real challenge. Here are five tips to help you get a smooth shave without nicking any pimples or causing future breakouts:
1. Use a prescription acne medication
Reducing bacteria on skin will decrease acne. Look for over the counter products with benzoyl peroxide. Prescription benzoyl peroxide medications include EpiDuo, Acanya, and Duac. If these are too irritating, ask your dermatologist for a prescription for ClindaGel. To prevent wrinkles along with acne use a combination product such as Ziana which has an antibiotic combined with an antiaging retinoid.
2. Soften your stubble
The best time to shave is after you've showered because heat and steam make the hair softer. If you don't have time to shower, soak a washcloth in warm water and hold it against your skin for a couple of minutes.
3. Use the right blade
Never shave with a dull razor--they pull at the hairs instead of cutting them cleanly and can irritate the skin. Before you start, inspect the blade carefully to make sure there aren't any nicks. Experiment with different types of razors. A single-blade razor doesn't get quite as close to the skin as those with multiple blades. Some men prefer multiple blade razors such as the Schick Quattro. Some of my male patients prefer an electric razor. Preferences vary widely from patient to patient.
4. Shave with the grain
Going against the direction of hair growth gets the smoothest shave, but it can also cause ingrown hairs and make acne worse. Try shaving in the direction of hair growth using short, light strokes.
5. Remove shaving cream
Most shaving gels and creams contain the emulsifier palmitic acid, which can clog pores. After you shave, use a salicylic acid cleanser to remove all traces of shaving cream from your skin. You might also want to check out the health food store for a "natural" shave cream. Some of these are palmitic acid-free, such as the one by Burt's Bees.
6. Try exfoliating
Exfoliating prior to shaving will often help decrease acne and razor rash. A facial scrub such as Clinique 7 Day Scrub or a facial brush such as the Clarisonic Face Brush can help.
Wishing you great skin!
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