Pimples after shaving: why they appear on the face and how to get rid of them

Updated: 06/03/2021 13:36:24

Although shaving a man’s face takes about 5 minutes, some people really don’t like this procedure and at the first convenient opportunity (vacation, weekends, sick leave) they grow stubble. Sometimes this reluctance to cut off facial hair is explained by the profuse outbreak of acne after the procedure.

Why this happens, how to deal with it and what to do to prevent acne on the face after shaving, we will consider in the article. To collect material, we conducted research, talked with leading male cosmetologists, and turned to authoritative sources to provide objective and reliable information.

Photo: artofmanliness.com/

Causes of acne after shaving

If you look at historical bas-reliefs, drawings and other visual information from that time, you can see that beards have been in fashion for thousands of years. And it’s not surprising, because the sharpened edges of mollusk shells, fragments of shark teeth, and copper hatchets were previously used for shaving. In the 19th century, straight razors appeared, the operation of which literally cost a lot of blood.

Shaving has become popular since the beginning of the 20th century, because in 1901 King Gillette invented the first safe razor. In 1931, the first electric razor was patented. Although they are much more convenient and safer to use, they do not eliminate the appearance of acne on the face after shaving.

Facial hair in men is made of keratin. This is a special protein substance with a high sulfur content. On the human body, men's facial hair is the coarsest. In terms of elasticity, they correspond to copper wire of the same cross-section.

The average growth rate of stubble per day is approximately 0.5 millimeters, and in total there are about 25,000 hairs on a man’s face. You can read more about men's beard hair. Pimples appear after shaving them off due to the following reasons.

Cutting off the top layer of epithelium

Using a sharp machine obviously involves cutting off the top layer of skin. Although it is not visually visible, a layer of epithelium is removed at a microscopic level. On the one hand, this helps cleanse the skin of dead cells (a kind of scrub), but on the other hand, it opens the “gate” for the penetration of acne-causing bacteria.

Dry shaving

Shaving with a sharp razor requires foam or gel. Firstly, they help steam out stubble. Secondly, they retain moisture in it. Thirdly, they maintain the position of the hairs in a perpendicular state relative to the skin of the face. An insufficient amount of foam or its absence at all leads to the fact that the blade does not cut, but rips out the hairs. This feels unpleasant and contributes to the formation of acne after shaving.

Mechanical damage

The face is not perfectly smooth - on its surface there are subcutaneous tubercles, wen, wrinkles, folds, moles, warts. Although they now produce disposable machines with shock-absorbing blades, they still cut off everything protruding, causing wounds. Bacteria penetrate the skin through cuts, inflammation begins and the face becomes covered with acne.

Dull blade

A dull disposable razor acts in the same way as dry shaving - it rips out hairs rather than cutting them off. Depending on the stiffness of the bristles, single-blade razors can only be used 1-3 times before they should be replaced.

In machines with 4-5 blades, sharpening lasts longer, since the load is evenly distributed over a larger number of elements. But using them for months is also not recommended. However, the high cost of replacement cartridges encourages some men to save money and continue shaving with a dull razor, which is why acne appears on the face.

Incorrect technique

Photo: dollarshaveclub.com/c

Acne occurs on the face after shaving in the neck area. You need to guide the machine along the hair growth line. This usually means a top-to-bottom motion (unless there are “whirls” that direct the hair in the other direction). But on the neck the hair does not stick out, but lies along the skin. Not everyone is able to shave their neck smoothly, so they move the blade from bottom to top.

As a result, the hair is cut below skin level. This gives maximum smoothness when moving your hand. But then the hairs begin to grow and may not get into their pores, but grow into the tissue. Inflammation, dense formations, and pimples occur.

Oily skin

If a man has skin with an increased number of sebaceous glands, then the secreted secretion itself clogs the pores, trapping germs in them. Bacteria accumulated in the fatty film before shaving penetrate inside when the upper layer of the epithelium is cut, multiply and lead to irritation and acne.

Allergic reactions

Sometimes shaving products used by men are not suitable due to individual intolerance. Foam, gel, cream only intensify the itching, promote redness of the face, and cause dark purple spots. Then acne may appear in this place.

And if still...

Let's be honest: it happens that all this did not help, and irritation still arises. Well, you never know - for example, the cream still didn’t work. Then the pimples and irritation that appear need to be removed: of course, there is no life with them. So, it's time to smear yourself. There are ready-made remedies for skin irritation, or you can make them yourself. The principle of operation for all of them is practically the same: bactericidal, that is, disinfecting the surface. And it prevents the formation of microabscesses, which provoke irritation.

Types of pimples after shaving

You can understand the cause of acne by the very nature and appearance of the surface formations. This may suggest which direction to take for treatment. There are mainly three types of acne:

1. Red dots, rashes

   . This is due to insufficient skin hydration during shaving, increased dryness of the epithelium, and allergic reactions.

2. White pimples

   . The presence of an abscess indicates a bacterial nature - microbes have penetrated into the pores or wounds, causing inflammation.

3. Dark, translucent tubercles

   . Such superficial formations are associated with ingrowth of hairs into surrounding tissues. The stubble inside the skin continues to grow, twists, and puts pressure on the tissue. It hurts and looks ugly.

Taking this into account, the dermatologist-cosmetologist will select a different treatment regimen.

Sanitary rules

One of the reasons why pimples appear after shaving is due to infection getting into the pores. Bacteria can live on your hands, under your nails, on razor accessories, and on the blade itself. Hygiene must be taken care of. It is advisable to store the machine in a special case or put on a cap. For greater prevention, treat it with a disinfectant before the procedure.

Everyone should have their own towel, razor, toothbrush. Under no circumstances should you borrow your partner’s machine. Firstly, this is bad form, and secondly, someone else’s instrument can result in infection or irritation.

How to get rid of acne

For some, the first reaction to white, pus-filled pimples is to pop them. But you shouldn’t do this - the bacterial environment can be driven even deeper under the skin, causing deeper inflammatory processes. Depending on the nature of acne, cosmetic skin care products are selected.

If you suspect an allergic reaction (pimples in the form of small red dots, severe irritation, itching), simply try changing your hygiene products. Use a different foam or shaving gel. Some even use hair conditioners to ensure excellent blade glide. Replace your aftershave cream in case you are allergic to one of its components.

Among the specialized products for combating acne after shaving on the face of men, the following are used.

When to see a doctor

If the inflammation and rash do not go away within 2 days, and you notice purulent pimples after another shave, an increase in body temperature and swelling of the treated area, then you need to consult a doctor for advice and prevent the development of complications and problems.

Find out what to do if you cut yourself while shaving. How to stop bleeding and what not to do.

The best acne remedies

GARNIER Clean Skin Active Ultra-Cleansing Gel

Rating: 4.9

The cosmetic product is recommended for men with oily skin. The gel has an ultra-cleansing effect, eliminating the consequences of the active work of the sebaceous glands. Absorbent carbon absorbs grease and accumulated dirt. Salicylic acid has an antibacterial effect, fighting germs that have entered the skin. Blueberry extract saturates the epithelium with vitamins, making the skin elastic and normalizing metabolic processes.

The gel is applied while washing. It can be used after shaving, when the foam has already been washed off. The consistency is thick, so you only need a little bit of product and the bottle lasts a long time.

Advantages

• no feeling of tightness after use;
• significantly reduces the number of acne;
• eliminates blackheads on the face.

Flaws

• It dries the skin a little, as it is designed for oily types;
• difficult to wash off.

Sensi Baume, Vichy

Rating: 4.9

After-shave balm with a softening effect. The composition includes eperulin - an extract from plants of the legume family. The drug has a calming effect and relieves inflammation on the skin that has been touched by a razor. Temporarily reduces sensitivity, so the user stops feeling burning and itching. The manufacturer uses thermal water to refresh the skin, restore it and strengthen its protective properties.

The balm is suitable for everyday use directly after shaving. Glycerin has an additional calming effect. The less inflammation on the skin, the lower the chance of acne formation. The product is made in France and therefore is expensive, but a 75 ml tube lasts for 3-4 months.

Advantages

• absorbs quickly;
• light texture;
• The tube lasts a long time;
• perfectly moisturizes.

Flaws

• Expensive.

Effaclar Gel, La Roche-Posay

Rating: 4.8

Gel foam is designed for users with oily skin prone to pimples, acne, and irritation. Can be used immediately after shaving or throughout the day. To do this, squeeze a little gel into the palm of your hand and foam it by rubbing with the addition of a small amount of water. Then apply to the face, distribute over the entire surface, massage, and rinse with water.

The active ingredient in the gel is zinc. It kills germs that cause acne. Thermal water relieves irritation and moisturizes the epithelium. Allergic reactions are minimized due to the absence of parabens. The skin will not “burn” after shaving, since the composition does not contain alcohol. Well tolerated by most users due to its pH 5.5 acidity and lack of soap. If hard water flows from the tap, the anti-lime component in the composition (EDTA) makes it soft.

Advantages

• additionally mattifies the skin;
• the face becomes velvety;
• smoothes the epithelium;
• prevents the formation of new acne;
• effectively eliminates existing acne.

Flaws

• some complain of dryness.

BioAqua Concentrated Pure Skin Cream

Rating: 4.8

Spot action cream. Apply to cleansed skin. Apply directly onto pimples using the built-in thin spout. Salicylic acid kills germs and speeds up the skin restoration process.

Additionally, the cream cleanses pores, removes toxins from the epidermis, and blocks further inflammation. Jojoba oil is used to soften. Shea butter dries out acne. Myrrh resin prevents redness and relieves itching. Sucrose stearate removes tightness and smoothes facial skin.

Advantages

• effectively removes developing pimples;
• fast action in one night;
• convenient tube with a long spout;
• It resolves deep pimples and pulls out external ones.

Flaws

• feels a little cold when applied;
• fights old acne longer.

Where to begin

According to statistics, it is because of red pimples that men are happy to boycott the razor. Many people forget about it at every opportunity and even grow a beard. Only a few “lucky” people can boast of perfect skin after hair removal. For others, this is their least favorite morning ritual. But everything can be changed if you take care of acne prevention.

READ: Why do pimples and rashes appear on the temples and how to get rid of them quickly?

Prevention of acne on the face in men after shaving

But it is better to prevent the problem, rather than solve it. Therefore, following a few simple tips will reduce the risk of acne after shaving:

1. Shave every day

   . The advice is not controversial. The longer the stubble, the more difficult it is to cut and the more irritating it is. Shaving short stubble every day will make the task easier.

2. Maintain personal hygiene

   . Some men shave in the evening, before bed. If you are one of them, be sure to wash your face with soap first to remove the germs and bacteria that have settled during the day. Otherwise, they will all get into the open pores during shaving.

3. Steam the stubble well.

   Foam helps soften, but it is better to wash with warm water first. It’s even better to shave after taking a shower or washing your hair, because then the stubble takes longer to steam.

4. Use sharp blades

   machines with slip strips. Don't skimp on machines. If you felt that it was not cutting, but tearing, change it. Buy machines with special strips that increase slip. When the strip is worn off, throw away the machine.

5. Use silicone foam.

   This product increases blade glide and reduces skin trauma.

6. Use proper shaving technique

   . Never point the razor against the hairline. Longitudinal movements along the blade line are also prohibited. In most cases, shave with a top-down motion.

7. Rinse your face with cold water.

   When your face has steamed in warm water, you don’t want to wash your face with cold water. But this must be done after removing the foam at the end of the procedure. Cold water helps close the pores, which prevents microbes from entering the epithelium, which means there will be less acne.

By understanding the causes of pimples after shaving and knowing tips to combat them, you can improve your facial skin. If professional cosmetic care products do not help, you should contact a specialist - a dermatologist who will conduct an examination, take smears for analysis, and prescribe medications.

Preparation

There's nothing worse than shaving dry, coarse hair on dry skin. Here you need to act wisely - before shaving, the skin and hair must be moisturized and made soft. This means that the shaving machine is best used after a bath or shower. Moreover: the day before it would be a good idea to thoroughly cleanse the skin with a scrub - it will remove dead skin cells and solve the problem of ingrown hairs.

So, our feet are ready - let's take up the tools. First of all, we need the machine itself - and the more modern, the better. For example, the most advanced body razor of the Dorco Shai 3+3 brand has six blades in a dual 3-blade cassette. The cartridge is movably attached to an ergonomic handle and is equipped with a rubber micro-comb that lifts hairs before shaving and a moisturizing strip. This design is the result of a long, more than century-long evolution of “women’s” razors; with its help, everything can be done quite painlessly. In addition to the machine, you need shaving cream, gel or foam - this product, as we said above, must be chosen so that it itself does not cause allergies, and the machine glides over it flawlessly.

Eve 6 Simple

Razor with 6 blade movable cassettes follows every curve of your body

General rules and recommendations

As soon as acne appears on your legs, monitor the temperature in the house. The air temperature should be no lower than 24 degrees, in this case your

Use detergents and cleaning products that do not contain chlorine. Do not neglect hypoallergenic laundry powders, because the skin should not come into contact with harmful substances.

Take vitamin A or vitamin A supplements. Doctors usually recommend Retinol. But be careful, an overdose can be harmful.

You can trust folk remedies, because they have been tested more than once. When pimples first appear, you can use them. But if you see that the chosen remedies do not help, do not delay visiting a dermatologist. Perhaps acne is a harbinger of a serious illness that has nothing to do with allergies after depilation. Try to eat right, because gastrointestinal disorders can also cause acne.

Follow these tips, and your feet will never encounter acne, and if they do, you will face the disease head-on.

Additional Tips

• A warm towel will help prevent rashes and pimples from appearing on your face. If you apply it before shaving, it will moisturize the skin, steam out the pores, and make the hair softer. To do this, moisten the towel under hot running water, wring it out and the compress is ready. Adding a drop of your favorite essential oil will make it smell nice, giving you an aromatherapy session.
• Don't forget to wash your face at least twice a day. Men should change their skeptical attitude towards cosmetics. Skin cleansing liquid, scrubs, tonics will additionally protect and monitor the condition of the face.

Cucumber

This green vegetable contains vitamins C and K and is full of hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties.

• The first recipe. Cut the cucumber into thin slices and place in the refrigerator for half an hour. Place the cooled piece on a razor blade and hold for several minutes.
• The second recipe. Mix the pulp of half a cucumber with ¼ cup of milk. Cool the resulting mixture and apply for 10 minutes.

Herbal decoctions

Traditional medicine will help remove acne, rashes, burning sensations, and discomfort. Herbal decoctions and tinctures can be used for lotions, compresses and simply washed with them. The following plants are suitable:

• Chamomile
• Calendula
• Yarrow
• Plantain leaves

They are sold in any pharmacy, and the packages tell you how to brew them and in what proportions.

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Top 5 ways to quickly remove skin irritation

What to do if irritation appears on the skin after hair removal?

We recommend the following care solutions:

1. Moisturizing creams and lotions. Pay careful attention to the composition of the products. There should be no parabens, fragrances or fragrances. These chemical components will only increase irritation.
2. The use of antiseptic ointments.
3. Using powder. Powder should not be used for dry skin; it can lead to peeling of the dermis.
4. Treatment of skin areas with solutions of “Chlorhexidine” or “Levomycitin”.
5. Use of anti-burn drugs.

In the modern world, a woman is accustomed to looking luxurious. Excessive hair on the body does not fit into the canons of beauty. All that remains is to choose a hair removal technology.

We recommend laser hair removal - a modern and safe solution with a minimum of contraindications. Usually the irritation is barely noticeable and goes away very quickly - the cosmetologist will give all the necessary recommendations.