Ingrown hairs, razor burn, irritation…shaving can really wreak havoc on the skin! The good news is that proper technique and good products can make a huge difference in your shave.


Ingrown hairs (properly referred to as pseudofolliculitis) happen when hair grows back at the wrong angle. When this happens, an anti-inflammatory response can activate. You may notice redness and itchiness, and get something that looks like a pimple. To help:

  • Shave with the grain (with the growth of the hair)
  • If your hair grows in different directions, adjust accordingly
  • Try Daily Clean Scrub before shaving...it's tiny beads can help lift hairs out of the follicle, reducing the chance they will become ingrown
  • Use Post Shave Balm after shaving...it has Salicylic Acid (to help clear impacted pores and minimize breakouts), as well as calming agents. It can even serve as your moisturizer!

Razor burn (properly referred to as Irritant Contact Dermatitis) looks like a rash and can lead to breakouts. If it happens often, it may even lead to premature aging! To help:

  • Shave slowly (quick strokes can be irritating)
  • Use light pressure
  • Be sure your blade is sharp
  • Rinse your blade often while shaving
  • Use plenty of shave cream/gel/oil

    Dermalogica’s Soothing Shave Cream, Invigorating Shave Gel, and Close Shave Oil are designed to help prevent razor burn. Shave creams are great for all skin types (especially sensitive). Gels also work well for all skin types, and are especially beneficial to oily skin. Oils are great for dry skin, or anyone looking to get a really accurate shave.

It also helps to shave while in a shower, using very warm water. Post Shave Balm will help soothe razor burn because it contains Licorice Root, Panthenol, Aloe and Horse Chestnut Seed (all of which are calming ingredients that reduce skin aggravation).

Thick beards can also create challenges. Sometimes your razor may not be sharp enough to cut through the hair, not to mention the hair shaft may clog your razor. This can often results in itchiness, redness and cuts. To help:

  • Rinse your blade often
  • Shave with the grain first, then go against the grain if necessary (apply more product before 2nd pass)
  • Try Pre-Shave Guard. It won't dry out the skin because it isn't high-alkali (like many options). It helps cool and hydrate, and can give you a closer shave.

Resource: International Dermal Institute

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 What's the press saying about Dermalogica Shave?

Playboy, March 2008

"Post-Shave Balm is the cooling, soothing, ingrown-hair buster that every man needs post-shave."

OK Magazine, December 2008

"Celebs reach for the Shave System Kit, featuring 5 products for a close, clean shave and healthy skin."

Nylon Guys, May 2008

"Want a great shave? You've gotta prep your canvas. Pre-Shave Guard softens hair that's tough and coarse, and works perfect under Soothing Shave Cream."

Men's Book, July 2008

"Tame that face fur...Dermalogica debuts it's first guy-oriented grooming line...that'll have you adios-ing your father's foaming creams."