Should you use cleanser before or after shaving?

Which cleanser should you use?

Choose a gentle cleanser with a balanced pH. A cream cleanser suits dry or sensitive skin; a foaming cleanser is an option for oily or combination skin. If razor bumps are a concern, look for a cleanser labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. Traditional bar soap can strip away natural oils, so it is not the best default for preparing skin to shave.23

Cleanser and shaving cream have different jobs, despite both occupying valuable sink space. Cleansing washes the area; shaving cream softens hair, moisturizes skin and adds a protective layer between skin and blade. Do not treat a freshly washed face as a substitute for shaving cream or gel when using a manual razor. Soap and water alone can dry the skin and make hair catch in the razor.14

How to cleanse, shave and moisturize

1. 1Wash with cleanser and warm water. Massage with your fingertips and rinse completely. Use warm rather than hot water, which can strip skin oils.
2. 2Apply shaving cream or gel while the skin and hair are moist. Leave it on for 2 to 3 minutes to soften the hair further. For very dry or sensitive skin, choose a shaving cream labelled for sensitive skin.
3. 3Use a sharp razor and shave in the direction the hair grows. Use light strokes and aim for one pass over each area rather than repeatedly scraping the same patch. Rinse the blade after each swipe.
4. 4Rinse away the shaving cream with warm water, then use a cool, damp washcloth or a cold water rinse to soothe the skin.
5. 5Pat dry and apply a gentle moisturizer. Avoid alcohol based aftershaves, which can dry and irritate skin. If you will be outdoors, apply broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

Should you shave before or after a shower?

Shave at the end of a shower or immediately afterwards. Warm, moist skin and softened hair make a good starting point, while removing excess oil and dead skin helps keep the blade from clogging. Cleanse during the shower before shaving. If you are not showering, hold a warm, damp washcloth against the area to soften the hair, then follow the same cleansing and shaving sequence.235

Does the same routine apply to an electric razor?

The wet preparation steps above are for a manual shave; a dry electric shave does not use water or shaving cream. A razor cuts hair at skin level, rather than negotiating with the root. If you have acne, try electric or disposable razors to find which works better for you. Shave lightly and never try to shave off a spot, because this can worsen acne.15

What if shaving leaves your skin irritated?

Stop shaving the affected area until irritation clears. A cool washcloth and moisturizer can soothe the skin; avoid products containing fragrance, alcohol or other irritants. Razor burn can appear within minutes and usually lasts a few hours to a few days. A rash that does not clear within a few days, or skin that looks infected, needs medical attention. Persistent razor bumps despite changing your shaving habits are also a reason to see a dermatologist.26

Replace disposable razors after 5 to 7 shaves, or sooner if the blade becomes blunt or damaged. Let the razor dry completely between uses and store it somewhere dry, not in the shower or on a wet sink.15