We’ve been avoiding admitting it for a few weeks, but, as much as we hate to say it, summer is over. Gone are the days of swimming, laying (responsibly with sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30) in the sun and no alarm clocks. But while you’re shifting over to pumpkin spice cold brews, sweaters and busy school schedules, another part of your day-to-day routine may be shifting, too: shaving.
In the summer, you probably shave pretty regularly. Shorts and swimsuits call for it. But as temps dip, do you keep up your regular razor routine? Maybe you should.
According to the folks at Schick (yes, the razor people, so take this for what it is), shaving all year can help exfoliate your skin and slough off those scaly, dry outer layers.
Razor Rules
Other tips we’ve collected to help keep your shaved areas smooth all year include:
Wait a few minutes. Don’t shave your legs (or other body areas) before you get into the shower. Remember that dry skin? Your skin needs to be wet for at least five minutes before you start shaving. For men, we recommend that you also soak your beard (use a damp washcloth or shower) for at least three minutes before you begin shaving.
Skip the soap. Using that bar soap for shaving can cause your skin to become even drier, making shaving more uncomfortable. Skip the soap and use a moisturizing shaving lotion or cream instead.
Don’t rinse. Don’t immediately rinse away the moisturizing shave cream or gel you just used. If you do, you’ll remove any conditioning benefits your skin just got from the product during your shave.
Select smart. When searching for a razor, choose one with a conditioning strip or cream designed for sensitive skin.
Remember this tip. We recommend that you shave in the direction your hair grows, which can prevent irritation to the outer layer of skin.
Moisturize. Afterward, apply a pH-balanced moisturizer to soothe your skin.
Think ahead. If you’re planning on heading out to face colder temps, shave the night before to help prevent dry skin and discomfort.
If this all still sounds like a hassle and you’re tempted to hang up your razor for the season, consider hanging up your razor for good.
No, we’re not talking about just going au naturel and letting it all grow out; we’re talking about saying goodbye to shaving forever and switching to laser hair removal to get rid of unwanted hair.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a way to remove hair using light energy to target specific hairs and destroy them without damaging surrounding tissue. The process works by targeting melanin within each hair follicle, causing it to die and fall out naturally.
This results in permanent hair loss.
The most common treatment areas for laser hair removal are the bikini line, back/underarms, chest, upper lip, lower abdomen, inner thighs, knees, calves, feet, eyebrows and underarms.
How Does It Work?
A handpiece containing an intense beam of concentrated light pulses travels over the targeted area while moving across the skin’s surface. This causes heat damage to the hair follicles, destroying their ability to produce new hair growth.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
It’s safe! Unlike traditional hair-removal methods such as waxing, tweezing, electrolysis and chemical depilatories, there are no uncomfortable side effects associated with laser hair removal.
Is Laser Hair Removal Just for Women?
NO. Many men visit us for laser hair removal to remove unwanted body hair from their chest, back, arms and other body areas.
Can Laser Hair Removal Be Used for Darker Skin Types?
YES. Our office uses the Lightsheer Quattro Laser for laser hair removal. This laser treatment device allows us to treat patients of all skin types and ethnic backgrounds. In addition, the Lightsheer Quattro Laser can treat all body areas — from the face to the back to the legs.
Are There Any Side Effects From Laser Hair Removal?
There are sporadic cases in which patients experience temporary redness, swelling, itching or bruising following a session. These symptoms usually go away quickly but should always be reported immediately to our office staff.
Will I Have to Go Back for Additional Treatments?
Yes. Depending on the size of the area treated, multiple laser treatments spaced several weeks apart may be required to achieve optimal results to remove unwanted hair.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?
Depending on the number of treatments needed, the benefits of laser hair-removal treatments can last anywhere between six months and two years. However, we recommend scheduling regular followups so you don’t miss essential maintenance appointments.
Ditch the razor for good. Instead, get your laser hair treatment this fall and winter, and be ready for summer 2022!
