We’re getting all kinds of advice about hair removal from everyone – your mom, beauty websites, and beyond. There are many different ways of hair removal and different opinions on them. Some say hair removal creams are bad, some say they’re not, but most people feel like shaving causes skin irritations and coarse hair. And THAT, is not necessarily true. So, I’m here to bring you the facts about shaving. Let’s start with the basics, shall we? Here are 6 popular shaving myths we’ve all heard before and I’m going to tell you why they’re not always to be believed.
1) Hair Grows Back Darker & Thicker
What seems to be thicker and darker is just the initial hair that you can see growing, as it grows longer, it will appear lighter or just as it was before. Shaving doesn’t change the color and size of hair, your genetics and hormones determine how your hair is from the beginning.
2) Razors Have To Be Disposed Every Time
Some razors come as disposable and others come with interchangeable blades that you can keep replacing, for a price that is cheaper than buying a new razor!
3) Shaving Causes In-Grown Hair, Especially In Delicate Areas
This is caused by hair that cannot move beyond the surface because of a blockage and hence, it curls back. Exfoliation, like shaving, only helps this cause. In fact, other methods of hair removal may clog your pores or leave residue. To avoid ingrowths, shaving is the easiest option. Make sure you keep your skin as clean as possible above all else to avoid ingrown hair.
4) Shaving Causes Nicks & Scratches
This only depends on how you shave. Make sure you don’t apply too much pressure. Shave in one motion first, when you’re done with that, you can try the other direction if need be. Make sure your skin isn’t dry and it’s lubricated enough. Also, make sure you have a clean razor.
5) Shaving Darkens Your Skin
Darkening has more to do with genetics and less with shaving. Shaving, in fact, exfoliates your skin, causing it to glow more. Just make sure you avoid heavy deodorants or chemicals right after shaving as you don’t want to irritate skin right after it has been exfoliated.
6) Don’t Shave Too Often
You’re repeating the same motion every time you shave. You are painlessly cutting the hair off the surface of your skin, so no matter how many times you do it… that won’t change the structure of your hair. It won’t ruin your skin either, provided you shave with lubrication and without too much pressure. In fact, shaving can have a much-needed exfoliating effect on your skin. Of course, avoid shaving on active pimple, bumps, or boils.
Watch Dr. Rashmi Shetty confirm the busted shaving myths, right here!
So, who’s going to give shaving a try?
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This post is in partnership with Gillette Venus.