A Guide to Shaving According to Your Skin Type

Posted on 20th January 201720th January 2017 by rbdadmin

Chances are you’ve been shaving for many years and you probably already know the basics. But did you know that the methods you use should be adapted to the type of skin you have?

Choosing the best possible razor, shaving products and techniques shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all affair. To protect your skin from dryness, irritation and razor bumps, find out your skin type — and take the appropriate steps.

Dry skin

Restricted production of sebum is usually the cause of dry skin. This leads to a situation whereby water has difficulty penetrating the skin’s surface. Existing dehydration and tightness of the skin can be exacerbated by shaving, so you should do everything you can to preserve and increase the moisture in your skin. If you suffer with dryness, the key to a successful shave lies in the preparation.

Choose your shaving products wisely if you suffer from dry skin. Alcohol-based creams and lotions, for instance, can dehydrate the skin further — exacerbating existing problems. Always shave just after a shower or bath, as the hairs on your face will be softer and easier to cut. Apply an oil or balm to your face immediately after getting dried. And choose a moisturising shaving gel or foam that will lock in moisture and protect your dry skin from irritation.

The need for a sharp razor blade of the highest quality simply can’t be overestimated for people with dry skin. Invest in a precision-engineered blade, and replace it the moment it starts to pull or tug at your facial hairs.

Oily skin

If you have oily skin, you’re in luck when it comes to shaving, as it is usually the most resilient. The extra oil in your follicles should make shaving smoother and less likely to result in rashes and irritation. Higher-than-average production levels of sebum are the cause of oily skin.

Avoid the temptation to use skin-drying products such as alcohol-based shaving foams and balms. While you may think your skin looks greasy, trying to dry it out a little could actually stimulate the skin to produce even more sebum than usual. Also, don’t scrub or exfoliate your skin aggressively, as this could also lead to the overproduction of sebum.

Sensitive skin

Sensitive skin usually suffers from itching, burning and rashes as a result of external factors such as stress, sleep deprivation, the weather and a poor diet. If you suffer from sensitive skin, it’s important to follow a balanced, moderated approach to preparation, shaving and post-shave treatments.

Use warm water for shaving, rather than hot. Apply a moisturising shaving foam gently, and make sure your choice of foam relies on natural ingredients wherever possible. Also, consider using natural face washes and moisturisers first thing in the morning and last thing at night. It is important to remember that your razor blade should be sharp and of the very highest quality.

Assess your skin type with a DNA test

A simple DNA test can ascertain what type of skin you have, as key variations in the two genes responsible for skin health can now be identified. A quick cheek saliva swab test can assess your skin on its ability to break down collagen and deliver antioxidant protection. Based on this genetic information, skin specialists can recommend very specific skincare products that work for you.

To celebrate the arrival of a healthier New Year, Dorco is offering you the chance to win a personalised skin serum based on your genetic information. The winner will undergo an in-store DNA test and lifestyle assessment at London’s Geneu. Laboratory scientists will then conduct a thorough examination before creating a personalised serum that will give you silky smooth skin after every shave. Hurry up! Competition closes on 31st January.