Razor hygiene: small habits, comfortable skin

A razor is one of the most used but least thought-about items in the bathroom. Most men only replace it once it stops cutting or gets rusty. Yet some of the redness, bumps and hair follicle inflammation after shaving may be directly related to these small slips.

Why does a dull blade wear out your skin?

A study on the biomechanics of shaving explains that, at its core, shaving is about managing the forces acting on the skin and the hair. A sharp blade cuts the hair with little force. As the blade dulls, more force is needed to cut the hair; the blade tugs at it, and without realizing it you press harder and go over the same area more often. When the study compared a basic disposable razor with a more advanced system, there were meaningful differences in skin blood flow and shaving sensations, which clearly shows how much the condition of the blade affects your skin.

How often should you replace it?

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends replacing your blade or disposable razor after five to seven shaves to reduce irritation. If your beard is coarse and dense, that window may be even shorter. If you feel the blade tugging at the hair, it doesn't cut on the first pass or stinging after shaving increases, it's time to replace it regardless of the count.

The cost of a new blade is always lower than the cost of nursing irritated skin back to comfort.

Cleaning and storage

• While shaving, rinse the blade under running water after each stroke; built-up hair and lather reduce its efficiency.
• When you're done, rinse the blade thoroughly with plenty of water and shake off the excess.
• Don't wipe the blade with a towel; it can dull the edges.
• Store the razor upright in a dry, well-ventilated place, not inside the shower or on a shelf that's always damp.
• Throw away a blade that's rusty, bent or has damaged edges without waiting.
• Clean your electric shaver's head after use and replace it at the intervals the manufacturer recommends.

Why is a wet shelf a problem?

The American Academy of Dermatology stresses that letting the blade dry completely between shaves is important for limiting bacterial growth on it. A razor that stays constantly wet in the shower is prone to both rust and microbial buildup. Tiny scratches made with such a blade can set the stage for inflammation of the hair follicles. Dermatology resources on folliculitis also list shaving as one of the common triggers of this condition.

Never share a razor

Tiny nicks made while shaving can leave very small amounts of blood on the blade, even if you can't see them. The NHS states that blood-borne infections such as hepatitis C can spread through sharing personal items that may have blood on them, such as toothbrushes and razors, and recommends not sharing these items. That's why a razor is personal, even between family members living in the same home.

Small extras before and after shaving

• Wash your hands and face before shaving.
• Use a lubricating shaving gel or cream; avoid dry shaving.
• If you use a shaving brush, rinse it too and let it dry in a dry place with the bristles pointing down.
• After shaving, support your barrier with an alcohol-free, soothing product.
• When traveling, use a protective cap for your blade and don't leave it damp in your bag.

When should you see a dermatologist?

If you have recurring pus-filled bumps, painful swellings or spreading redness in the beard area despite following hygiene rules, see a dermatologist. Some types of hair follicle inflammation may require antibacterial or antifungal approaches after a doctor's evaluation.

Helpful as you build this routine

EcoProbiotic MenCare range ↗

Moisturising01Prebiotic Face CreamA thin layer morning and evening; on shaving days, right after you shave. Moisturises the skin and supports its barrier.View ↗