should i wash my face before shaving

10 BEST SHAVING CREAMS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: SAY GOODBYE TO RAZOR BURN

Do you dream of a smooth, irritation-free shave but wake up to red bumps and razor burn? If you have sensitive skin, shaving can be a battle. But fear not! This guide will unveil the 10 best shaving creams for sensitive skin, formulated to soothe and protect your skin while delivering a close, comfortable shave. Get ready to ditch the discomfort and embrace the confidence of a shave that pampers!

WHAT SHAVING CREAM IS SAFE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN?

When you’re checking the ingredients in shave products for sensitive skin, it’s good to look for certain things. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a skin doctor in New York City and New Jersey, suggests looking for glycerin because it pulls moisture into the skin, and shea butter because it keeps moisture in and makes your skin softer. Also, it’s helpful to find ingredients like oatmeal or aloe that calm your skin and ingredients like jojoba oil that moisturize it.

Another skin doctor, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, also likes ingredients such as avocado butter and vitamin E because they are very good for your skin. He recommends using creams or thick gels because they protect sensitive skin from rubbing.

Dr. Garshick says that creams are better for dry or sensitive skin, while gels and foams are better for oily skin. But it also depends on what feels best for you, as foams are lighter and easier to wash off.

WHAT SHAVING CREAM TO AVOID WITH SENSITIVE SKIN

If you have sensitive skin, there are a few ingredients you should steer clear of when choosing a shaving cream:

  • Sulfates (SLS or SLES): These create a lather but can be harsh, stripping away natural oils and causing dryness and irritation.
  • Fragrances: Artificial fragrances are common irritants and can trigger allergic reactions. Opt for fragrance-free shaving creams.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol can be drying and exacerbate sensitivity. Look for alcohol-free formulas.
  • Propylene Glycol: This ingredient can irritate some people, so it’s best to avoid it if you have sensitive skin.

BEST SHAVING CREAMS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

AVEENO POSITIVELY SMOOTH SHAVE GEL

Aveeno Positively Smooth Shave Gel is a great option for those with sensitive skin seeking a comfortable shave. This fragrance-free formula skips harsh ingredients like sulfates and alcohol, making it gentle on irritated skin. It contains soothing aloe and vitamin E to help prevent nicks, cuts, and razor bumps, leaving your skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Users also report that the gel provides a good glide for a close shave. If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective shaving product, Aveeno Positively Smooth Shave Gel is definitely worth a try.

BLU ATLAS SHAVE CREAM

Blu Atlas Shave Cream caters specifically to those seeking a natural and potentially irritation-reducing shaving experience. Formulated with 96-100% naturally-derived ingredients, it boasts a calming and soothing effect thanks to hydrating glycerin and nourishing oat bran extract. This shave cream is designed to be used without a brush, resulting in a thinner, lightweight lather. While some users find this lather effective, it might take some adjustment compared to thicker traditional creams. However, the focus on natural ingredients and potential for reduced irritation makes Blu Atlas Shave Cream an intriguing option for those with sensitive skin, especially if they don’t mind a different lather texture. 

FLAMINGO FOAMING SHAVE GEL

Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel promises a comfortable shave for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It boasts a luxurious gel-to-foam formula that transforms into a thick, pillow-y lather. This rich layer helps create a smooth glide for your razor, minimizing friction and irritation. Flamingo’s formula also contains aloe vera, known for its soothing properties, which can help calm and hydrate your skin during the shave. Another plus is that the gel is designed to stay put on wet legs while rinsing clean from your razor blades, making for a mess-free experience. While some users might prefer a fragrance-free option, Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel could be a good choice for those with sensitive skin who prioritize a comfortable shave and a luxurious feel.

GILLETTE SATIN CARE ULTRA SENSITIVE SHAVE GEL

Gillette Satin Care Ultra Sensitive Shave Gel is a fragrance-free and dye-free option designed specifically for those with sensitive skin. This dermatologist-tested formula prioritizes minimizing irritation by omitting common triggers. The gel offers a lubricating layer to enhance razor glide, promoting a closer shave with less friction. Gillette Satin Care also aims to leave your skin feeling smooth and hydrated, potentially reducing the appearance of razor bumps. If you’re familiar and comfortable with Gillette products and prioritize a fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested shave gel, then Gillette Satin Care Ultra Sensitive Shave Gel could be a strong contender for your shaving routine.

VANICREAM SHAVE CREAM

Vanicream Shave Cream is a solid choice for those with sensitive skin seeking a fragrance-free and no-nonsense approach. It boasts a thick, moisturizing formula that spreads easily and creates a good barrier for your shave. This can be particularly helpful in reducing razor burn and irritation. Users report feeling a noticeable difference in post-shave dryness, with some even suggesting it feels like they’ve already applied lotion. While some reviewers find a faint, slightly off-putting odor, the lack of added fragrance makes it a good option for those with fragrance sensitivities. Keep in mind that the thick formula might require a bit more rinsing to ensure it doesn’t clog your razor blades. 

OUI THE PEOPLE MOISTURIZING SHAVE GEL-TO-MILK

Oui The People’s Sugarcoat Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk offers a unique and potentially luxurious experience for those with sensitive skin seeking a close, comfortable shave. Unlike traditional creams, it starts as a gel and transforms into a milk during application. This innovative formula boasts a blend of nourishing oils, including argan, grapeseed, marula, and sunflower. These oils aim to provide deep hydration while allowing your razor to glide effortlessly, minimizing friction and irritation. The inclusion of Vitamin C adds a brightening boost, potentially leaving your skin looking radiant after the shave.  With its focus on natural ingredients and unique texture, Oui The People’s Sugarcoat Shave Gel-to-Milk might come at a higher price point compared to some drugstore options. However, it’s a good choice for those willing to invest in a potentially more luxurious and effective shaving experience for their sensitive skin.

THE ART OF SHAVING UNSCENTED SHAVING CREAM

If you have sensitive skin and crave a classic shaving routine, The Art of Shaving Unscented Shaving Cream is a worthy contender. This fragrance-free formula caters to those who might be irritated by artificial scents. It delivers a rich, foamy lather that helps soften beard hair for a close, comfortable shave. The Art of Shaving prioritizes protecting your skin from irritation and razor burn, making it a good choice for those prone to shaving bumps. While some users might find it pricier than drugstore options, The Art of Shaving Unscented Shaving Cream offers a potentially high-quality shaving experience formulated specifically for sensitive skin.

HARRY’S SHAVE CREAM 

Forget about cuts, bumps, or hair you don’t want; just smooth, clear skin without any hairy hair. We really like saying “hairy hair,” especially when we’re talking about Harry’s products.

Harry’s shaving cream uses natural stuff like cucumber and aloe to make your skin feel good while you shave. It makes lots of foam and feels really soft on your skin. It’s like spreading a fluffy cloud on your face that’s full of aloe to keep your skin happy. It also has oils to help with dryness after you shave. You’re supposed to use Harry’s Shave Cream on your face, but you can use it anywhere on your body to avoid cuts and bumps. Some people might find it irritating because it has things like eucalyptus and marula oil in it. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have any bad stuff like sulfates or parabens in it.

TRULY COCO CLOUD AFTER SHAVE MOISTURIZER

If you shave a lot, your skin might lose moisture. That’s why it’s good to use a moisturizing shave lotion like Truly Coco cloud. It smells really good, and we found that after just two times using the razor, our skin was smooth. The lotion feels thick when you first put it on, so it’s better to rub it between your hands before spreading it on your skin. It turns white and foamy, making it easy to see where you’ve put it. If you put too much on, you might need to shave over it again. But after shaving, your skin feels smooth and smells nice. This lotion is great if you shave every day because it keeps your skin really hydrated.

PACIFIC SHAVING COMPANY CLEAN SHAVE CREAM

This shaving cream has good stuff like shea butter, vitamin E, and sunflower seed oil that make your skin feel really nice. It helps protect your skin from getting hurt by the razor and also makes it feel hydrated. The shaving cream makes lots of foam that feels smooth on your skin and keeps it safe. It comes in versions with no smell and a little smell for anyone to use.

HOW TO SHAVE WITH SENSITIVE SKIN

Here are some easy steps to help you get a good shave if you have sensitive skin:

  • Make sure your skin is wet before you start shaving to avoid irritation.
  • Use a razor made for sensitive skin.
  • Put enough shaving gel or cream on your skin before you shave.
  • Be gentle and take your time, especially in sensitive areas.
  • Shave in the same direction your hair grows, not against it.
  • Wash and moisturize your skin well afterward to keep it healthy.
  • Test a small area of your skin with the shaving product before using it all over.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it, folks! Say goodbye to shaving worries. Along with the fundamental rules for shave down there, these top 10 shaving creams can help you avoid razor burn and achieve smooth, irritation-free skin. Keep in mind to choose a cream that matches what you like – whether it’s fragrance-free, lathers up nicely, or uses natural ingredients. Armed with the perfect product, you can confidently tackle your reflection and embrace the day with skin as stunning as it feels.

Can you use Minoxidil for Beard Growth? Here’s what you should know

Some people think that beards and mustaches are like special decorations that make men look more manly. Many famous athletes, singers, and actors are working hard to have the coolest beard and mustache. Some of the celebrities who have made beards really popular are Brad Pitt, Idris Elba, and Bad Bunny. It’s not just about following the trend – some people like how beards change the way their face looks. Others grow beards because they don’t like shaving every day; it can be annoying and make their skin feel irritated.

But not everyone can grow a full and regular beard. Some people use a substance called minoxidil, which has been used by those dealing with hair loss. What exactly is minoxidil, and does it really help with growing beards? We’ll answer these questions and more in our latest article. Let’s get started!

What is Minoxidil?

Minoxidil, FDA-approved for treating hair loss and promoting hair regrowth, initially launched as a prescription medication called Rogaine in 1987. It’s now available without a prescription in foam or serum forms and can also be taken orally.

While minoxidil was originally intended for thinning hair and baldness on the scalp, it’s increasingly being used off-label to boost beard growth. According to trichologist and hair loss expert Precious Rutlin, consistent use of minoxidil has proven effective in helping some individuals regrow their hair, as demonstrated in clinical studies. However, she emphasizes that individual results may vary.

How does minoxidil work?

Research led by Jason Emer, a certified skin doctor in Los Angeles, explained that when minoxidil is used to widen blood vessels, it works by opening specific channels in muscle cells. This widening effect might boost the health of hair cells or follicles.

Dr. Dandy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, and Mohs surgeon at New York City’s Shafer Clinic said that minoxidil has been proven to be a beneficial method for enhancing hair growth. It fosters the circulation of oxygen, blood, and nutrients to the hair follicle, fortifying the follicle and promoting hair growth. Its primary application is to stimulate hair growth and impede the progression of balding.

Is minoxidil good for beard growth?

Scientists did some studies on using minoxidil to grow beards, and the results look good. Even though they haven’t studied it as much for beards as they have for head hair, the research suggests that minoxidil can make beards thicker and fuller. Putting minoxidil on areas with facial hair, like your beard and mustache, seems to work well for people wanting more facial hair.

It’s essential to know that using minoxidil for beard growth isn’t what it was made for. It’s like using something in a way that wasn’t originally planned. Like any medicine, everyone might react differently, and there could be side effects. Some people might get irritated skin, dryness, or redness when they put on the minoxidil. Following the right amount and how to put it on is crucial to avoid problems.

Before you start using minoxidil on your beard, it’s smart to talk to a doctor or a skin specialist. They can give you advice that fits your health history and check if there’s anything that could cause issues. Even though minoxidil seems like a good choice for a thicker beard, it’s also important to do other things, like taking care of your skin, eating well, and staying healthy overall. All these things together will give you the best results.

How to use Minoxidil

To get the best beard growth results, follow all of the following steps

Step 1: Cleanse and Dry Your Face

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or sweat. Pat your face dry with a clean towel.

Ensure your face is completely dry before applying minoxidil, as moisture can dilute the product and reduce its effectiveness.

Step 2: Apply Minoxidil Directly to the Beard Area

Use the dropper or applicator provided with the minoxidil solution to apply a small amount (approximately 1 mL) directly to your beard area.

Focus on areas where you want to promote hair growth, such as the cheeks, chin, and neckline. Use your fingertips to gently massage the minoxidil into your skin. Make sure the solution reaches the base of your hair follicles. Do not apply minoxidil to your eyes, lips, or any other areas of your face besides your beard.

Step 3: Let the Minoxidil Dry Completely

Let minoxidil dry completely on your skin before applying any other products, such as moisturizer or sunscreen. This process usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Try to let the minoxidil dry on the skin for that duration; otherwise, it won’t have the greatest impact on the skin.

Step 4: Repeat the Process Twice Daily

Apply minoxidil twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Consistency is key to achieving results. Aim to apply the minoxidil at the same time each day to maximize its effectiveness. Minoxidil is a treatment that needs to be applied daily for good long-term results.

Minoxidil for beards: Before and after results

Some people use minoxidil to help with their beard growth when they have challenges like a beard that’s not very full or has patches. Maybe their natural beard growth is not a lot, and they want a thicker, fuller beard to make their face look better. So, they try minoxidil to see if it can make a difference in how their facial hair looks.

People who use minoxidil regularly often see significant changes in their before-and-after pictures. Minoxidil helps new hair grow, making the beard denser, especially in areas where there wasn’t much hair before. Users often notice that their beard looks better and thicker, giving their face a more even and grown-up look. While everyone’s experience is different, and it takes time, the changes seen in before-and-after pictures show that minoxidil could be a good choice for those who want a fuller beard and a more satisfying facial hair look.

You can refer to some pictures before and after using Minoxidil.

Beard growth before Minoxidil treatment; after 2 months; after 3 months; after 5 months

Are there any side effects of using minoxidil for beard growth?

Yes, while it is generally safe and well-tolerated, it can cause some unwanted effects in some people.The usual problem people mention is skin irritation. Some other common issues are itching and flaking. Sometimes, hair might unexpectedly grow in places where you didn’t use the minoxidil.

Certain types of minoxidil have something called propylene glycol (PG), which helps minoxidil dissolve better. This makes it easier for minoxidil to get into the hair follicles. However, PG can be annoying, so they made a version without it called minoxidil foam. It goes on quicker, doesn’t spread as much, and is more comfortable to use.

Even though a bit of minoxidil can get into your body when you put it on your scalp, it’s not much (about 1.4%). Minoxidil doesn’t stick to the proteins in your blood or go into your brain, and most of it leaves your body through your kidneys within 4 days.

People have been using minoxidil for a long time to treat hair loss on the scalp for conditions like androgenetic alopecia. There haven’t been many reports of long-term issues with using minoxidil for these conditions.

Who Should Avoid Minoxidil?

Experts say that if your skin is sensitive or if you have ongoing skin issues like eczema or psoriasis, you need to be careful when using minoxidil to grow a beard. Dr. Engelman, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist advised: “If you have sensitive skin or skin conditions, it’s important to be cautious. Before you start using minoxidil, do a patch test. Keep a close eye on your skin while using it, and if you notice any issues, stop using it.”

What about using minoxidil along with your other skincare routine? Dr. Engelman said it’s okay to clean and exfoliate your skin before using minoxidil. However, she added, “If your skin is sensitive, be careful with exfoliating because it can make your skin more sensitive to minoxidil.” 

FAQ

1. Does minoxidil grow a permanent beard?

As of now, there is no scientific evidence indicating that minoxidil-induced beards will persist permanently once the treatment is discontinued. Achieving a full beard is a gradual process, with many men not realizing their complete beard potential until their mid-30s.

2. Can a 17 year old use minoxidil for beard?

Minoxidil seems to be well-tolerated in individuals under 18. A study involving 13 boys, aged 13 to 17 years (mean age, 15.9 years), experiencing early male balding, affirmed the safety of minoxidil in this age group through an open-label investigation.

3. What happens if I stop using minoxidil?

If you quit using minoxidil, you might lose the hair you gained or kept while using the medicine. Minoxidil only helps when you use it, and once you stop, your hair follicles will go back to their usual growth pattern, causing potential hair loss.

4.Is there a better option than minoxidil?

You can consider other options instead of minoxidil, like finasteride, spironolactone, or laser therapy. Look into these choices to find what might be best for you based on your needs and preferences.

5. Can I skip minoxidil for a week?

Although skipping won’t harm your hair, it will make the medicine less effective. It’s usually okay to miss a dose now and then, but skipping once a week will make them less effective.

Conclusion

Beard growth with minoxidil has emerged as a promising solution for stimulating, offering hope to countless individuals seeking a fuller, more defined beard. While results may vary depending on individual factors, the potential for significant growth is undeniable. However, remember that consistency and patience are key. It’s a journey, not a destination. Be kind to your skin, monitor progress, and embrace the gradual transformation. With dedication and the right approach, Minoxidil can help you unlock the beard-growing potential you’ve always desired.