Should you exfoliate before or after shaving? Your skincare guide

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Should you exfoliate before or after shaving? Your skincare guide

Despite how common it is to choose shaving for extra smooth skin, you may still have unanswered questions about the process: Do you exfoliate before or after shaving? Should you prep your skin before you shave? How can you care for your skin afterward? Dove shares answers to frequently asked questions about how to get softer, smoother skin.

Should I prep my skin before I shave?

Absolutely. It might sound like a natural first step, but you’ll need to make sure your hair is wet as dry shaving can cause tugging, which can lead to irritation and razor burn. So, hop in the shower or run a warm bath, soak for a couple of minutes and then apply a soothing shower mousse before you reach for your razor. The warm water will soften your hair, making it easier to shave, while the shower mousse will help your razor glide along effortlessly.

When should I exfoliate?

Should you exfoliate before or after shaving? The answer is yes to both. One of the most important parts of your pre-shave prep is exfoliation, which helps to buff and prepare your skin. Using an exfoliator a couple of days after you shave will also remove dead skin and make it easier for the hair to come through — meaning you’ll be less likely to get ingrown hairs.

How long should you wait to shave after exfoliating?

After exfoliating, it's best to wait a few minutes before shaving. This allows your skin to calm down and ensures that any exfoliating products have been fully absorbed. A five- to 10-minute wait is usually sufficient.

Should I use shaving products?

Using a shaving product creates a barrier between your skin and the blades, helping to protect you from irritation and reducing your risk of nicks and cuts. Consider using an antibacterial body wash with an ultra-nourishing formula to help to restore your skin's natural moisture barrier.

Should I shave up or down?

Shaving up, against the direction of your hair growth, gives you the closest shave for the smoothest skin. But your skin can get irritated if your hair is on the longer side, so start by shaving with the grain to shorten the hair, and then do the reverse.

Should you shave before or after a shower?

Shaving after a shower is generally recommended. The warm water and steam help soften your hair and open up your pores, making shaving easier and more effective. Plus, your skin is already clean, reducing the risk of irritation.

How can I care for my skin after shaving?

After shaving, use a rich moisturizer to keep all the moisture from our body wash locked in. The minute you’re out of the shower or bath, gently pat down your skin with a towel instead of rubbing, which can be irritating, and smooth on your favorite body lotion.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a smoother, more comfortable shave while embracing your skin's natural beauty.

This story was produced by Dove and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.