What are some tips men can use to avoid ingrown hairs while shaving?

To guard against ingrown hairs during shaving, try the following suggestions:

• First, when you shave, use a manual razor with a single blade. The double and triple blades promise to give you a very close shave; this sounds good, but the closer you shave, the more likely you are to have those hairs curling below the surface of your skin resulting in razor bumps and infected hairs.

• Secondly, shave in the shower. When your face is very wet, you minimize the likelihood of developing razor burn from too much friction.

• Use a good lubricating shave cream or gel. Considering using a treatment regimen that contains either salicylic acid or glycolic acid, as it will help to remove the dead skin cells.

• After shaving, make sure you moisturize your face.

• Lastly, when you shave, shave in the direction your hair grows. When you shave against the direction of your hair growth, you may get a closer shave, but you will increase the likelihood of developing ingrown hairs.

To avoid getting ingrown hairs when shaving, wet your beard hair with warm water. Use a lubricating shave gel, and avoid really close shaves. Also, use a sharp, single-blade razor, and don't pull the skin when shaving. Shave in the direction of hair growth, not against it. Rinse the blade after each stroke.

Ingrown hairs occur most often in men who have tightly coiled hair. Ingrown hairs can cause bumps when shaved, tweezed, or waxed hair grows back into the skin. These bumps can become inflamed or irritated.

You may also want to consider other methods of hair removal such as electric razors or chemical hair removal. If you have concerns about ingrown hairs and how to avoid this condition when shaving, talk to your doctor or dermatologist for other hair removal options.