Thread: Does your skin adapt to shaving?

Have you guys found that when you shave frequently your skin is less prone to irritation as opposed to shaving every once in a while? Like if you grow a beard for a while and don't shave, when you get back to shaving are you more prone to irritation because you haven't taken a razor to your skin in a while?

Nope, your technique adapts to shaving

Originally Posted by kwlfca

Nope, your technique adapts to shaving

Have to agree. You'll find that you'll get to the point where you'll just know when you're headed for a cut or scrap and automatically stop or adjust. Sounds strange but true.

There are thoughts both ways on this and maybe a little of both is true. I remember years ago when electrics were new and all the rage they would tell you your skin had to get conditioned by them before you got a good shave. Your skin doesn't form calluses and get hard so I don't know how much your skin changes. I personally think it's more how you use the razor that matters.

Gotta agree I think it's your skills get better so you don't scrape your face as much, not the skin gets harder

Originally Posted by animalwithin

Like if you grow a beard for a while and don't shave, when you get back to shaving are you more prone to irritation because you haven't taken a razor to your skin in a while?

Yes that's absolutely true, at least if the beard is months old (or older). Remember, when we shave we are removing a layer or two of skin along with whiskers so if skin hasn't been exfoliated for some time it will be a bit tender.

Years ago I knew a guy who shaved off his moustache for the first time in 25 years and let me tell you his upper lip was three shades of red.

I'm not more prone to irritation, i.e. redness, burn, etc.. But if I go 3 or more days before a shave I'm much more prone to ingrown whiskers, especially on the neck. or I guess

Howard

Originally Posted by Ryan82

Yes that's absolutely true, at least if the beard is months old (or older). Remember, when we shave we are removing a layer or two of skin along with whiskers so if skin hasn't been exfoliated for some time it will be a bit tender.

Years ago I knew a guy who shaved off his moustache for the first time in 25 years and let me tell you his upper lip was three shades of red.

Shaved it off with what? A Straight?

I've had a moustache since I was 19 years old. if I shaved it off now with a straight I'd wouldn't have an idea how to perform that maneuver and I'd bet there would be some issues as I learned by doing.

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

Shaved it off with what? A Straight?

I've had a moustache since I was 19 years old. if I shaved it off now with a straight I'd wouldn't have an idea how to perform that maneuver and I'd bet there would be some issues as I learned by doing.

I wouldn't have a clue, I'd need a time machine so I could go back and ask him

But keep in mind I'm also talking from personal experience too. I've had many forms of facial hair over the years and the last time I grew a full beard I didn't shave for over 100 days. I've had a moustache for over two years at this point. Since my straight shaving technique hasn't changed the only variable is skin and I will personally guarantee that the skin will be tender regardless of razor or technique.

Originally Posted by SirStropalot

I'm not more prone to irritation, i.e. redness, burn, etc.. But if I go 3 or more days before a shave I'm much more prone to ingrown whiskers, especially on the neck. or I guess

Howard

I'm the exact opposite, I need to take at least 3 days before shaving, otherwise the hair isn't long enough and if I shave and let it grow back I'll get lots of irritation and ingrown whiskers. Its definitely more of a neck problem though.