This article, “How to Shave Facial Hair, Including Brief History of Shaving” is compiled to shed some light in your search.
You may be searching for the correct way to shave, in particular, facial hair. There isn’t a shortage of information on the subject matter; however, I have put this article together hoping it will help you. First, here’s a brief history of shaving.
To Shave or Not To Shave
The decision to grow or not to grow a beard has gone in and out of fashion over the centuries. Some men considered wearing a beard attractive, some don’t. Some women admire or prefer men with beards, some detest the very thought and appearance.
For those who want it off, there are guidelines on how to shave facial hair.
What determines whether wearing a beard is fashionable, acceptable or not? Here are a few factors:
- Culture – The society decides what is or isn’t acceptable.
- Religion – Sometimes it’s a lifetime expectancy; sometimes it’s ritualistic.
- War – It could be detrimental as the enemy could grab the opponent’s beard in order to bring him down.
- Presidents – They tend to set the pace with their own appearances.
- Personal preference – Sometimes you do whatever the heck you want to do!
Why Some Women Shave
Facial hair is not considered normal or attractive for women in general. However, there are cultures that have no problems with it and have even embraced it.
Some women develop facial hair or excessive hair growth in other areas of their bodies due to hormone imbalance. Many of them are uncomfortable with their appearance and find ways to get rid of these unwanted hairs. One common way of doing this is by shaving.
Many methods and devices have been developed throughout the years. Manufacturers have designed feminine-inspired devices to entice women. This gives them unlimited market, and women have fallen for these enticements. Shaving is a convenient and the least expensive method of hair removal.
Women who do not suffer from abnormal hair growth may be obsessed with fine “peach-fuzz” hairs that are hardly noticeable on the face. They, too, will make shaving a regular routine.
This Is How You Do It
Before you begin, it’s best to gather everything you will need for the procedure. Here’s a list:
- Manual, battery-operated, or electronic razor or shear. Electronic devices will have instructions on how to use them. Make sure you understand how they work.
- Mirror
- Facial cleanser
- Warm water to moisten the skin and cold water to clean the razor while shaving
- Washcloth or towel
- Shaving cream, foam or gel
- Toner and moisturizer
There are at least two schools of thought on the direction in which the hair should be shaved. It is generally recommended shaving against the grain, opposite to how the hair grows out. It is considered by others that shaving along the grain instead is better. This way there is less irritation of the skin and the likelihood of getting ingrown hairs. This seems to be the preferred method.
Still, others recommend doing both. At some point, shaving will be done along and against the grain based on the different direction of hair growth … even in the same area of the body. It comes down, in part, to personal preference. Whichever one you choose should be the one that works for you.
It may be tedious, but take time to see initially which way your hair grows before starting to shave.
- You will want to start with a clean face by using a facial cleanser or a product designed for shaving. Avoid regular soap. Work up a lather, rinse, then pat dry. Water should be reapplied to keep the hair soft during the process.
- Apply shaving cream, gel, or foam
- Hold the skin taut to get a smooth surface and also to minimize the risk of getting hair bumps.
- We will go with shaving along the grain in this case. Instead of going up, shave down.
- Work slowly going from one side of the face to the other.
- Rinse the blade as needed to prevent hair from clogging it up. This also results in a smoother shave.
- When you are finished, rinse your face with warm water and check for smoothness with your fingers. Remove any remaining stubble.
- Follow with cold water to close the pores. You could also use an alcohol-free toner.
- Finish off with a moisturizer suitable for your skin type.
- Be sure to clean up afterward. You will want your device to be in top shape and germ free.
Additional Tips
There is pre- and post-care activities that are essential to maintaining a smooth facial appearance. It goes beyond just shaving. Not everyone will be concerned about before and aftercare, but for those who do, here are some valuable tips:
- When deciding on purchasing a shaving device, ask yourself, “What is best for my skin?” “What is the most time-saving?” “What can I afford?” That may be just as important as your search question, “How to shave facial hair?”
- We all have different skin types … normal or sensitive, oily, dry, or combination. It’s a good idea to incorporate your skincare routine into your shaving ritual.
- It is best to use warm water to soften the skin and open the pores. Shaving when taking a shower is sometimes convenient.
- Use a clean washcloth or towel, preferably one without dyes. White is best.
- Choose shaving cream, foam or gel that are gentle on the skin.
- Ensure toner and moisturizer are suitable for your skin type.
Down To the Last Wiry Strand
So, here’s the thing: People are looking for guidelines on how to shave their facial hair. But first, we have looked at a brief overview of shaving. This art has been around for many centuries, particularly for men. Women and men equally determine whether wearing a beard is attractive or not.
Some deciding factors that determine the popularity or disgust for beards are culture, religion, war, presidents, or personal preference.
In some cultures and societies, a woman’s facial hair is acceptable, while for many it is quite the opposite. Some suffer from a hormone imbalance and may be looking for ways to shave. Manufacturers ensure they design feminine-inspired devices, which have flooded the market. Shaving is a convenient and inexpensive way to remove facial hair.
It’s a good idea to be organized. Start by gathering all your supplies. It will make the experience more worthwhile, at least for some people. These include shaving device, mirror, facial cleanser, water, washcloth or towel, shaving cream, foam or gel, toner, and moisturizer.
Check to see which direction your hair grows. The preferred method of shaving seems to be along the grain instead of against it. Follow the steps above for the perfect shave and skincare regiment.
Make sure to clean your shaving device, other items used, and the area in general for long-lasting devices a germ-free environment.
Probably you found this article, “How to Shave Facial Hair, Including Brief History of Shaving” by searching for answers. I hope it has been helpful.
Feel free to leave your questions and comments below. I will do my best to address them.
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