Men are no longer strangers to the skincare aisle. It’s 2022, everyone regardless of sex or gender identity understands the importance of daily skincare routines. I have previously dove into men’s skincare routines, but I want to provide an updated version focused on the best men’s shaving routine. Keep reading if you want to learn how to reduce irritation and improve the overall skin health!
What Products You Need
A men’s skincare routine doesn’t have to be quick and simple. You can use 2 or 12 products- it’s totally up to preference. As far as the products you absolutely cannot skip in a daily routine I recommend checking out my skincare basics 101 course. If you want a TL;DR version, here you go:
- Gentle, daily cleanser
- Sunscreen
Anything else you purchase or use is going to be catered to your skin type, needs and preferences!
Men’s shaving skin care routine will differ based on how frequently you shave. I have found through research that most men shave 1-3x weekly. The more often you shave, the more gentle you want the rest of your routine.
Here’s my husband’s skin before shaving:
I recommend to warm up the skin before going in with shaving because it can reduce irritation. He typically shaves while in the shower using a hand mirror. But even if you’re not fully hopping in the shower, pat the skin with warm water or place a warmed towel over the face. Next, he cleanses with a gentle cleanser in the shower. Always wash the skin before shaving to prevent spreading bacteria.
This is how his skin looks immediately after shaving! Now let’s go into the after care products.
How Your Routine Changes When Shaving
Shaving is a form of exfoliation. Dead skin cells are being removed from the skin along with the hair. Therefore, you have to be careful with what products you are using on your skin the same days you shave. Maybe you want to remove certain products OR you can add in soothing, non-irritating products/ingredients for that extra special smooth feel.
- DO NOT use any other form of exfoliation the same day as shaving. The best way to prep the skin for shaving is to exfoliate 24-48 hours prior to removal of hair. This will ensure less irritation, redness and ingrown hairs. You can choose chemical or physical exfoliation based on preferences and skin concerns. Learn more here
- Use a hydrating face mask after shaving. Think of it as extra strength after shave. A creamy, hydrating mask will help soothe redness and make your skin super soft. You could also use a water-drenched sheet mask! Check out some recommendations here
- Skip drying alcohol based products. Many after shave sprays have lots of alcohol in them which can cause stinging, burning and redness. Be sure that the label says “alcohol-free” before buying.
For his aftercare, my husband tried out a hydrating mask instead of his usual aftershave. He used one of my absolute favorites, The Inkey List Madecassoside Mask. This one incorporates calming centella with cooling menthol to refresh and soothe the skin. Note- it does not exfoliate or dry and get hard on the skin.
Here is his skin after 5-10 minutes of letting that mask sit on the skin:
Remember to remove very gently with warm water. No harsh scrubbing necessary.
My husband’s face was smooth and soft with much less irritation! He followed this simple shaving routine and mask with a soothing moisturizer. I made him use my Dear, Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream because it is the perfect product for irritation. He really enjoyed how fast it sank in. Always go in with a moisturizer or sunscreen afterwards depending on when you shave.
Here’s What To Buy If You Don’t Like Shopping Around
Daily Cleanser: Non-foaming Option for sensitive skin, foaming option for normal skin types
Moisturizer: Sunscreen for AM, Moisturizer for PM
Exfoliants for Non-Shaving Days: Quick & Easy Toner, or a Scrub if that’s your preference, Salicylic Acid Wash
My Preferred After-Shave Products: Hydrating Mask, Sheet Mask, Ceramide Serum
Best Men’s Shaving Routine Wrap-Up
Overall, think of shaving as your exfoliation step. Your skin really does not need to be exfoliated daily…even if it’s always been fine before. Everyone’s skin will feel better by adding in more soothing, hydrating ingredients to their daily routines. The best shaving routine for men is one that keeps the skin health in mind!
Note- shaving the face is not only for men. I have a blog dedicated to dermaplaning you can read here
Be sure to share this blog with the men in your life that need help with shaving and skincare routines. Thanks for Reading!
