Do You Need A Better Shave?

Friday - July 11, 2008
By: Lisa Irizarry

We recently ran across this column, written by The Star-Ledger's Lisa Irizarry. We thought it might be helpful for some of you guys who have problems with shaving and razor bumps.

Here it is, spotted over at NJ.com's blog:

Sometimes the unshaven look on a man isn't really what we women want to see - especially when it's time to get dressed and go out for the evening or for a special occasion. It's a look very few men can really pull off although a lot more think otherwise. But some men have fessed up to me that they know it's not a great look, they're just taking advantage of being able to get away with it because they just hate shaving. One asked me, "Why would you want to take a sharp object to your face and cut up your skin?" That does sound pretty horrible to have to do - especially every day.

Shaving can be even more of an ordeal for a lot of African-American men - and now Target is carrying SheaMoisture products that target the two main problems that have long been known to come between black men and their shaving - ingrown hair and razor bumps. I have to just stop for a minute to tell you what a delicious scent they have. Like anything, these may not work on everybody, but I've had a couple of good reports.

SheaMoisture Shave Kit with face Wash and Bump preventer
What might be helpful is the "Tea Tree Herbal Bump Preventer ($6.99)" and the African Black Soap Facial Wash & Scrub ($4.99)." Under the best shaving conditions, hairs are cut off flush at the skin's surface with only a small amount of friction and skin irritation. But in those prone to razor bumps and ingrown hairs like African-American males (because of their typically curly hair), the hairs are often cut too short and hairs may curl back into the skin instead of growing out. Red or dark bumps, pain and scarring can result, so getting a smooth shave can be a challenge.

The African Black Soap Facial Wash & Scrub (to help prevent razor bumps and irriation) is a daily facial with Jojoba Beads that gently exfoliate and raise hair. To use, you wet your face and beard with warm water; then squeeze a quarter-sized amount into your palm and vigorously massage it into your face and beard. Rinse off with warm water. It is also recommended to leave on as a masque for three minutes once a week. The Tea Tree Herbal Bump Preventer contains Aboriginal tea tree oil, Vitamins A and E, Jojoba oil, olive oil, willow bark extract, witch hazel and birchwood sap for instant relief while protecting open pores from bacteria. Meant to be used after shaving, you pour it into your hands and massage into the shaven area. For best results you would use a clean, sharp razor and shave daily.

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