The Ultimate Guide to Shaving with Eczema

The Ultimate Guide to Shaving with Eczema

Eczema is a common, chronic, non-contagious skin condition that poses unique challenges when it comes to whisker removal. Skin with eczema has a higher sensitivity to irritants, bacteria, and allergens, causing damage and inflammation as well as  This damaged epidermis is less able to retain water, making dry and itchy skin a standard complaint. 

Removing hair by shaving can be especially difficult with eczema. Irritation can come from all directions, including (but not limited to) using the wrong type of razor, the use of excessively hot water, dull/clogged blades, chemical-laden shaving foams, and gels, and just the simple fact of friction meeting sensitive skin. Here are some tips to help you reduce skin irritation before, during, and after shaving with eczema.

Keep products clean and water warm (not hot)!

Make sure the products you use are as simple and minimal as possible. Avoid unnecessary chemical additives like fragrance, dyes and artificial color. That doesn't mean you can't use great skincare products, though: non-fragranced moisturizing creams and lotions that are rich with plant butters and oils are popular options for eczema, though DIY-types may enjoy making a homemade salve with ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, jojoba, aloe, lavender and tea tree oil. 

Further avoid an eczema flare-up by avoiding hot water. However, warm water does play a role in readying the skin for hair removal, making shaving in the shower or bath best for everyone including those with eczema. Steam does wonders to help open hair follicles and soften scaly skin. 

Remember to first wash the area you plan on shaving with water or unscented soap to remove oils and bacteria. Avoid harsh soaps, which degrade the lipid (fatty) layer of the skin and alter its healthy pH levels.

Read: How to Get Smooth Legs without Bumps

Blade maintenance and shaving style to prevent eczema irritation

If you’re shaving your face, applying a damp warm towel or simply warm water for a minute or two can help soften whiskers. And no matter what you learned from dear old Dad, don’t go against the grain! Shaving in the direction that the hair grows will mean a shave that’s not as “close,” but will help avoid irritation and help prevent nicks and cuts. We hope it goes without saying, but avoid shaving dry, as dry shaving is far too abrasive and will guarantee inflammation. 

A crucial element when it comes to shaving is taking care to replace razor blades regularly. Dull blades can irritate sensitive skin, sometimes requiring you to make repeat passes over active lesions. 

Aqua Jet Razor is an ideal standalone product for this, as it hooks up to your shower. Water runs continuously through the unit and onto your skin, creating the cleanest, most natural, least- skin-irritating shave possible.

Read: 10 Reasons Why You Need to Stop Using Shaving Cream

And one more time: moisturize

Take the time to moisturize with a simple, unfragranced cream, oil or lotion twice each day and after each bath or shower. Think of moisturizer as your shield against an angry world. Keep ingredients super pure.

Avoid aftershaves containing alcohol. Rinse the shaved area with cold water or choose simple witch hazel toner containing aloe, and be sure to follow up with moisturizing balm or cream.

Eczema is enough of a challenge already—don’t add to the burden by triggering or exacerbating outbreaks via shaving. Remember the best practices, experiment with care and you’ll be on your way to easy, clean, hassle-free shaves. And always consider your dermatologist’s advice. 

For best results, use the clean, water-powered shave enabled by Aqua Jet Razor. This will minimize your chances of irritation and inflammation. After, be sure to moisturize with cold water. As mentioned, this can be accomplished with a simple, natural, homemade solution.

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