It may take some trial and error to find the right fit, so let him try different kinds of razors to see which works best for him. [1] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source If he opts for a non-electric razor, tell him that he’ll need to change the cartridge or throw it away once the blade dulls (usually after about 7 shaves).
Exfoliating before a shave helps prevent razor burn or razor bumps by sloughing away dead skin that clogs razors and pores. Heat softens facial hair, which means the razor will glide through more easily instead of getting snagged on stubborn hairs.
Shaving cream isn’t necessary for a dry shave with an electric razor since the blades don’t touch the skin. If he’s using a water-proof electric shaver in the shower, a thin layer of gel is needed for lubrication. Shaving cream or gel lubricates skin so the razor can glide more easily across the face. Tell him to use it every time he shaves to prevent cuts and irritation.
It’s best to start on the cheeks and sides of the face where there’s more room to work on his technique. The chin, jawline, neck, and upper lip require more precision and should be last. Hair on different parts of the face might grow in different directions, so remind him to double check which way he’s shaving as he tackles new areas. [4] X Research source Tell him to use light pressure while he shaves to prevent cuts, and to never try and shave off acne (this will lead to worse acne or even scarring). [5] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source If he opted for an electric razor, tell him to apply gentle pressure to his face and simply move the razor around to areas that need to be shaved.
Sharing razors increases the risk of spreading germs, infection, or even bloodborne pathogens between users.
Electric razors don’t require shaving cream or gel. It might take some trial and error to find the right razor, so allow your daughter to try different kinds until she finds one she’s comfortable with.
If she’s using a non-electric razor, she’ll stay in the tub to shave. To use an electric razor, she’ll have to get out and dry off first.
Opt for a moisturizing shaving cream to nourish the skin and reduce the risk of razor burn. If she’s using an electric razor, have her exit the tub and pat her legs or underarms dry instead of applying a cream or gel.
Have her shave the lower leg first, and then the upper leg. Electric razors also move against the direction of hair growth. Tell her not to shave over the same area multiple times, as this will cause more skin irritation. For underarms, have her pull her skin taut while she shaves. She can shave in all directions, not just against the grain, to eliminate underarm hair.
Tell her she can shave in curved, C-shaped lines around her kneecaps and ankle bones to reduce cuts. A razor with a pivoting head can navigate these bony areas safely. Reinforce that light pressure reduces cuts in sensitive areas. Tell her to relax and let the razor do the work!
If your child has acne-prone skin, it’s best if they avoid shaving daily. This gives their skin time to heal, especially if they nicked a pimple or zit during the last shave. Shaving everyday, whether it’s the face, legs, or underarms, increases the chance of razor bumps and burns.
Try applying styptic powder if he needs to stop the bleeding quickly. If he or she has a cut or pimple in an area they need to shave, tell them to switch to an electric razor (for facial shaving) or to take a break from shaving for a few days until it’s healed. [23] X Research source
