Is Dry Shaving Bad?

If you've ever shaved in your life, you're probably familiar with "traditional" shaving. You find the right shaving cream, get the right razor, lather, shave, etc. It's all a process.

Maybe you've heard about dry shaving and wondered "is dry shaving bad"? 

Dry shaving isn't as involved in terms of preparation as the traditional/wet shave, so it's quicker. In fact, it's become somewhat popular lately, with many people raving about its convenience and simplicity. After all, you only need a shaver and hair. 

So, should you dry shave? To answer that question, there are a few key things to consider. Depending on your skin type, the type of shaving method (i.e., your technique), and the type of shaver you use, dry shaving might not be ideal.

What is Dry Shaving?

"Dry shaving" is exactly what it sounds like. You're shaving without the use of any "wetness." So there's no shaving cream, no oil, no water. Just your shaving device and your dry skin and hair.

How to Dry Shave

If you choose to dry shave, keep the following in mind:

• ‌Start with clean skin.
• Choose your shaver. Will you use a razor or an electric trimmer? An electric trimmer will reduce your chances of irritating the skin, but it won't give you as close a shave as a razor. If you do go with a razor, a single blade is best. The more blades (i.e., multi-blade), the greater likelihood you'll nick yourself and/or get skin irritation--including razor bumps.
• Shave regularly, at least every other day. Doing so helps keep razor bumps at bay. But shave too often (i.e., daily) and you might actually encourage razor bumps.
• Rinse the skin with cold water immediately after shaving. This helps tighten the pores.
• Do NOT go against the grain. The chances for razor bumps increase. You'll get a closer shave, but you're more likely to get too close. 
• ‌Moisturize. Use your favorite moisturizer immediately after drying your skin to minimize flakiness. 

Why You Should Not Dry Shave

If you have a skin condition such as eczema, dry shaving probably isn't the best idea. The same is true if you generally have sensitive skin or are prone to razor bumps. Dry shaving might not be for you.

Also, dry shaving doesn't allow moisture (that you get with wet shaving) to soften the hair. As a result, you generally don't get a shave as close as you would with a wet shave. This can lead to an uneven shave with random hairs sticking up in places where you already shaved. 

The Final Analysis...

Some people swear by dry shaving so much so they will never go back to wet shaving. Dry shaving might work for you, too. Everyone is different. The key is to  be aware of the risks and your own skin's sensitives and tendencies.