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    Shaving sensitive skin and different skin types in men: Your guide

    Reading time: 4 mins

    A man shaves in front of a mirror using the Shaver S900 Prestige with SkinIQ, ideal for shaving sensitive skin.

    Did you know that your skin type could be affecting your shave? From rough, bumpy patches to breakouts of ingrown hairs, trimming your beard down to a smooth stubble isn’t always easy, and shaving sensitive skin can be a fine art. But, by getting to grips with your complexion, you could wave goodbye to irritation without compromising your smooth skin.


    If you’re ready for stress-free shaving, it’s time to spend some time getting to know your complexion. Learn more in this guide to shaving for your skin type.

    The different skin types in men

    Knowing your skin type is the first step to finding a shaving routine that leaves you looking your best. Take a look at the most common types to get started:

     

    • Oily skin: Men having oily skin and clogged pores are very common. If you hold blotting paper or a thin tissue to your skin and it comes away with light, translucent marks, you most likely have a more oily complexion. 

    • Dry skin: Men whose skin is tight, itchy, or flaky are categorised as having dry skin. 

    • Combination skin: Do you have an oily forehead but dry patches on your cheeks? When skin fluctuates or contains aspects of different skin types, it’s categorised as a combination complexion.

    • Sensitive skin: Men with frequent redness and irritation have a sensitive skin type. You might see bumps from using certain skincare products or the dreaded razor burn after you shave.

    Matching your shaver to your skin

    Once you’ve got your skin type down to a T, you can start working with your complexion for a smooth, stress-free shave. The easiest way to do this is with a shaver that’s designed for your skin needs. 

     

    For dry and sensitive skin types, it’s important to find a shaver that focuses on reducing irritation. The Shaver Series 9000 is ideal, with patented Lift & Cut technology that gently lifts the hair out of the root for a clean cut that doesn’t touch the skin. Advanced sensors help you to use the right pressure, too, and a protective coating makes for a smoother glide and 30% less irritation.

     

    When dealing with oily skin, men need a sharp blade to avoid clogging the shaver. This means avoiding any cheaper blades and sticking to shavers that prioritise a clean, quick cut. The self-sharpening blades of the Shaver S9000 Prestige have ultra-sharp edges that last longer for a smoother, closer shave.

     

    Combination skin will be happy with a wider variety of shavers, including those already mentioned. Or you can break the mould with the Shaver Series 7000, designed for versatility and skin protection. Enjoy shaving wet or dry with a head that reduces irritation and a motion sensor to guide your technique for a more efficient shave.

    See more below ↓

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    Shaving tips for different skin types

    When shaving dry skin, men should focus on skincare. Exfoliate your skin weekly with a gentle chemical exfoliant to get rid of dead skin cells without causing irritation. Before shaving, wash your face with a moisturising wash and rinse well. Keep your blades sharp to avoid tugging and always moisturise post-shave. 

     

    For those who are shaving oily skin, it’s also recommended to exfoliate weekly to prevent build-up and keep your pores clear. It’s common for oily skin types to see frequent breakouts, too, and with over 95% of people aged between 11 and 30 experiencing acne¹, if you’re worried about shaving over a breakout you’re not alone. Take a look at this article on shaving pimples for expert tips.

    Shaving sensitive skin: What to know

    When shaving sensitive skin, men will find it’s a lot simpler after choosing the right razor. With a gentle hand and a clean blade, you’ll be in a better position to avoid shaving rash for a clean, drag-free shave. 


    But what about shaving wet or dry? It’s the to-be or not-to-be of the sensitive shaving world and entirely depends on your skin. If you’re sensitive to shaving foams, your skin might be happier with a dry shave. For added lubrication and hairs that are easier to catch, splashing water and foam on your face can do the trick for a stress-free shave. If you’re not sure which is right for you, check out advice for wet vs. dry shaving.

     

    1 Acne, NHS 

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