The Exfoliation and Shaving Dilemma: When's the Best Time?

Whenever it comes to talk about skincare, a conversation sparks up on what are the best ways of getting a supple smooth shave. The most common question that comes up, is if should you exfoliate before or after shaving? We are going to delve into the particulars and help you find that good method with a conserving your hair regimen.

Understanding Exfoliation

Exfoliating dead skin from the surface of your skin can help to prevent ingrown hairs and end up with a smoother looking face. There are two main categories of exfoliants: physical (e.g. scrubs, brushes) and chemical (using acids or enzymes). Each method can provide ways to better your pre-shaving routine.

Exfoliating Before Shaving

Pros:
Exfoliating: If you exfoliate before the shave, this removes dead skin cells that your razor may have a hard time shaving over. This prevents razor burn and allows for a closer shave.

Prevention of Ingrown Hairs: Exfoliating helps to keep hair follicles clear, decreasing the chances of hairs becoming trapped beneath the skin.

Better Absorption: Shaving cream or gel will be able to absorb better into the skin following exfoliation and provide more lubrication when you shave.

Cons:
Risk for Sensitive Skin: Exfoliating before shaving may lead to irritation if you have sensitive skin. Choose a gentle exfoliant that suits your skin type and use it accordingly.

Exfoliating After Shaving

Pros:
Redness might happen after a shave inducing skin irritation, exfoliation can help your level of cell turnover, allowing for new cells to replace the old ones.

Deep Clean: Shave after running a light exfoliant over your legs to remove any leftover shaving cream and open up the hair follicles, which can stop ingrown hairs.

Cons:
More Aggressive: Shaving will make your skin prone to inflammation. Scrubbing too soon afterwards could indate the sting and make it feel sore

Hydrated Cells: Dry or recently-shaved skin can easily become dehydrated by exfoliation.

Finding Your Balance

But you may find that the right option for you is different than what others need. Some tips on finding what works best for you:

• Test and observe : Try out both methods to determine what works best for your skin type. Stick with it if you feel that exfoliating before shaving results in a closer shave without irritation. On the other hand, if you find that exfoliating afterwards keeps your skin smooth and redness-free than maybe this is something you should do every time.
• Use the Right Products: Make sure to use exfoliants made for your specific skin type. People with sensitive skin might fare better using gentle chemical exfoliants, and those of us with a bit more oiliness may suit physical scrubs.
• Keep Hydrated: No matter when you scrub,always use a good quality moisturizer that can hydrate your skin deeply.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the answer to whether you should exfoliate before or after shaving depends on your skin type and general personal preference. Knowing the pros and cons of each, you can schedule exfoliation into your grooming regimen at intervals that make sense for your skin. By sticking to the following, your shave will be easier and so too on your skin!