A problem you might encounter with having sensitive skin is the pain of trying out a product and then give you a bad, and often painful, result. When it comes to shaving, picking the wrong product will almost certainly result in razor burns.
With sensitive skin, it is very important to know which products would work for you and which products would cause problems. Let us walk through what you need to know when choosing a shaving cream for your sensitive skin.
Shaving Cream vs Shaving Gel
Shaving creams and shaving gels are highly recommended products for shaving. While they are sometimes interchanged, they are fairly different kinds of products. Each one has a different feel that gives a new kind of shaving experience.
Shaving Cream
Shaving Cream is mixed with water to lather and apply to your skin. Shaving cream can be quite thick and used as it is. Shaving cream also doesn’t clog the razor quickly in comparison with shaving gel. An important thing to also note here is that shaving creams do not come in cans. These solutions that come in aerosols are called shaving foam.
Shaving Gel
On the other hand, shaving gel doesn’t need to be lathered and thus doesn’t require the addition of water. Simply take the product and apply a thin layer on your skin, then shave. Shaving gel is usually clear, which makes it more popular for those looking for a chiseled style as it makes it easier to see what you’re working on.
In terms of choice, it all goes down to personal preference and what product will feel most comfortable to your skin. Giving both a try to know which can work well with your skin and hair and type.
How are men’s skin different from women?
Other than hair growth, men and women’s skin can vary in different ways. Here is a list of differences between men and women’s skin.
Thickness
In general, men’s skin is about 20-25% thicker than women’s. Men’s skin also has a tougher texture than women’s. But, the thickness of men’s skin gradually thins down as they age, while women’s skin remains the same until the age of 50. After menopause, her skin will wear down significantly and will continue as she ages.
Oil Production
Men’s Sebum production and sebaceous glands are more active than that of women. Because of this, men’s skin tends to be oilier than women’s. This also makes men prone to more long-lasting acne
Collagen
Men have a higher collagen density than women, which is the ratio of collagen to the thickness of the skin. This is attributed to why women appear to age much faster than men. However, men are less likely to use sunscreen, which makes the difference between their looks more unnoticeable.
Hydration
Men sweat significantly more than women because they have more active sweat glands. But, men’s skin tends to look more hydrated than women’s. For that reason, men are unlikely to apply a hydrating moisturizer to their body or face.
Can men use the same shaving cream for women?
The general answer is yes, you can. The essential ingredients in men and women’s shaving cream are basically the same, after all, they still do the same job. Other than the packaging, they can differ in the fragrances and the aesthetic feel of each product. So using women’s shaving cream will still work, it will just smell and feel different.
Why does skin react badly to shaving cream?
If you ever had a bad reaction to your shaving to shaving cream, it could simply mean that the product you’re using contains an ingredient you’re allergic to or you may have sensitive skin and the product’s ingredients are too strong for you.
In any case, it is best to choose a product that is suited for you that won’t cause any skin irritation. In addition, you should also be careful about the razor that you use and follow proper shaving procedures.
How to treat razor burns on sensitive skin?
Razor burns, or razor rash, is a skin irritation manifested as redness, burning, soreness, itchiness, and a scratched skin appearance. There is are many causes for razor burns like:
- Dry shaving
- Fast or aggressive shaving
- Shaving an area too many times
- Shaving against the direction of your skin
- Using an old or clogged razor
- Using shaving products that irritate your skin.
It is best that you take measures in preventing razor burns. But in the unfortunate event that you had a razor burn, here are a few ways you can use to alleviate the discomfort.
Avoid touching your Skin
The most obvious way not to cause more irritation and possibly an infection is to avoid touching or scratching the affected area. But this is easier said than done, especially if you had that itchy feeling, so remind yourself to keep your hands away from the burn.
Cold or Warm compress
Applying a cold compress may help soothe irritated skin. And applying a warm compress applied to the skin will open the pores and help loosen the hairs.
Use Aloe Vera
Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera can be used to treat first and second-degree burns. Additionally, applying a thin layer of pure aloe vera gel to the affected area can treat razor burn.
Apply Oils
Studies have shown that some oils can be used to treat minor burns. In this case using coconut oil, Sweet almond oil, and tea tree oil can help heal your burn.
Razor burns can disappear after a few days without treatment, though the whole process will be more difficult and if often painful. However, if the razor burn takes too long to heal or becomes infected, it is best for you to consult a doctor.
Best Shaving Cream for Sensitive Skin
Shaving Cream for Men
Proraso Shaving Cream for Sensitive Skin
Made with Oatmeal Extract and Green Tea for an emollient and soothing effect to combat redness and irritation caused by shaving. Made with a rigorous ‘hot soap’ making process for an ultra-rich soap that makes a thick, creamy, and soft lather. This ensures a safe and comfortable shave while leaving it soft and hydrated.
Jack Black Beard Lube Conditioning Shave
With a unique translucent formulation, this product functions as a pre-shave oil, shave cream, and an after-shave conditioner. Made with a lightweight and penetrating formula to help prepare your beard by penetrating and softening whisker growth while holding moisture for easy and convenient shaving.
Taylor of Old Bond Street Jermyn Street Luxury Shaving for Sensitive Skin
With pleasant but not overpowering ingredients, this light shaving cream might just be the answer to your sensitive skin. Made with a classic formulation, this product gives a soft feel while leaving a light fragrance and can last for a long time, even if you shave regularly.
Our Pick
We highly recommend you pick the Proraso Shaving Cream. Using only a small amount of this product is already effective for shaving with dry and sensitive skin.
Shaving Cream for Women
EOS Shea Better Shaving Cream for Women
Made with natural ingredients like lavender, this shaving cream is sure to give your sensitive skin the proper care it needs. With 24-hour skin-softening moisture, this shaving cream can be used for shaving wet or dry. Aside from that, it is also packed with natural shea butter, and vitamins C&E to leave your skin soft and smooth.
Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel
A therapeutic gel to rid yourself of uncomfortable razor bumps. The Aveeno Shave Gel is made with oatmeal, Vitamin E, and moisturizing lubricants to help your skin moisturized for a smooth shave without nicks and cuts. This product also doesn’t have any no added fragrance that can irritate sensitive skin.
Alba Botanica Very Emollient Shave Cream Coconut Lime
Get up close and comfortable using Alba Botanica Shave Cream. Infused with aloe vera, coconut, calendula, lime, and vitamin E, this power-packed shave cream is great at preventing dryness, chafing, and bothersome lumps while keeping your skin soft and moisturized. Also tested Hypo-Allergenic and Hydro-Active for dry to normal skin.
Cremo Fresh Lavender Moisturizing Shave Cream
Give yourself a smooth shaving session with the Cremo Fresh Shave Cream. Formulated with super-slick molecules to provide a slippery interface between a sharp blade and sensitive skin. Inspired by the latest insights of cosmetic products and deep respect for tradition, this product ensures no gimmick and no fluff.
Kiss My Face, Pomegranate Grapefruit Moist Shave
Made a refreshing new formula to give yourself a moisturizing indulgence. This moist shave is formulated with vitamin E, olive oil, and moisture-rich botanicals, lemongrass, and aloe to give yourself a superbly moisturizing shave. Ensured cruelty-free and vegan formulated with gluten-free ingredients.
Shaveworks Pearl Souffle Shave Cream
Feel the confidence and beauty in your own skin with the Shaveworks Shave Cream. A durable and luxurious product that exfoliates, moisturizes and nourishes skin for a smooth and silky skin while minimizing future hair growth. This product also soothes irritation, reduces redness, and prevents ingrown hairs, suited for all skin types.
Satin Care Ultra Sensitive Shave Gel twin pack
Have no worries with this dermatologically tested shave gel designed especially for sensitive skin. Made with a dye and fragrance-free formula to lessen the risk of skin irritation, and leave your skin soft and smooth after every shave. Also formulated to give an amazing glide for protection against nick and cuts.
Coochy Plus Intimate Shaving Cream
A trusted product for over 30 years, the Coochy Plus shaving cream is a real-world-tested moisturizing cream formula. Made with jojoba oil, avocado oil, aloe vera, shea butter, and maca root. These five powerful, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and vitamins-rich ingredients will surely improve your shaving experience.
Skintimate 2-In-1 Moisturizing Shave Cream for Women with Skin Conditioner
Rid yourself of dry and flaky skin with Skintimate Shave Cream. A luxurious cream formulated with aloe, shea butter, and soy protein to leave a lotion-like feel and provide 24 hours of moisture and enhanced skin conditioning with a refreshing coconut fragrance.
Tree Hut bare Moisturizing Shave Oil Coconut Lime
Achieve your best possible shave yet with the Tree Hut bare shave oil. Made with a blend of natural oils and amazing skin conditioners to give deep moisture that wonderfully softens and smooths dry and cracked skin and prevent further dryness.
Bikini Zone Anti-Bumps Shave Gel
Give yourself care to your intimate areas with this Bikini Zone Anti-Bumps shave gel. Specially formulated with soothing botanicals, rich emollients, and vitamins A&E that gently lubricates the skin and softens coarse hair. Also made transparent to keep your skin visible for easy shaving.
GIOVANNI Moisturizing Shave Cream
Experience an easy and safe shaving experience that would leave your skin smooth and moisturized. Effective in minimizing the nicks and cuts and is enriched with hydrating formulas to infuse your skin with moisture and hydration. Formulated hypoallergenic and is safe for even the most sensitive skin.
NOW Solutions Nutri-Shave Natural Shave cream
If you’re looking for a product that can solve your skin irritation, then this is the product for you. Uniquely formulated with the protective properties of Allatonin combined with the moisturizing properties of Hyaluronic Acid for a very effective shave. It also contains natural skincare ingredients like coconut oil, panthenol, aloe vera, and olive oil to give skin a smooth and exciting experience.
Veet Gel Hair Removal Cream for Sensitive Skin
Have a quick and effective shave to easily remove stubborn hair in just a few minutes Veet Hair Remover Cream. This product can easily and effectively remove hair from leg to body without leaving any messiness. Dermatologically tested safe for sensitive skin, this product is enriched with aloe vera and Vitamin E to help moisturize and soothe your skin.
Our Pick
We highly recommend you take the EOS Better Shaving Cream as this product is convenient to use and really gives a clean shave without any nicks. It also moisturizes your skin that feels like lotion. We also highly recommend you pick the Veet Hair Removal Cream because it really takes out your stubborn hair while giving your skin the proper care.