Have you ever had to treat a bleeding cut in the front seat of the car, madly dabbing your ankle (and balance the trifle!) while your boyfriend takes corners in YOUR Mazda as if it were a Mazaratti?

While shaving is definitely the easiest and cheapest way to remove hair, it's not always smooth shaving. So we asked Geoff Mahanay for advice on how to avoid nicks, inflamed skin and of course, the dreaded ingrown hair.

Geoff, what are your tips to avoid irritated and red skin, particularly if it's sensitive, when shaving?

Take your time and never rush when shaving as this can make you apply to much unneeded pressure and stroke to fast. Perform the shave with a set pattern as going over one area too many times will physically burn the skin. Commence at the top of shave area and methodically move downward in small sections. You should also use a shaving cream or gel to place a barrier between the skin and the blade.

We've heard that exfoliation aids better shaving results, is that so?

Yes, because the smoother the surface, the smoother the shave.

What causes ingrown hairs, and what should we do if we spot one?

An accumulation of dead skin cells can clog up the surface a hair follicle. This blocks the hair from growing upward and outward, and forces it to grow sideways under the skin. Ingrown hairs are more common in people that have really curly or coarse hair. Curly hair is more likely to bend back and re-enter the skin, especially after it's been shaved.

If you get an ingrown hair you should gently exfoliate twice a day. This will help to remove any dead skin cells, dirt, and oils that might be trapping the ingrown hair. It may also nudge the tip of the hair out. Apply alcohol based astringent directly to zone to minimise infection. If it’s highly infected use a peroxide or benzoyl peroxide (acne medication). Never squeeze as the infection will spread across the skin.

Can you prevent ingrown hairs?

Yes, for the most part you can. To prevent ingrown hairs you should exfoliate regularly and always apply moisturiser as this allows skin to be more supple and flexible and that means the hair pore will adapt itself to the hair shaft by bending and stretching easier.

How often and why do I need to replace my razor?

A. It is important to change your blade regularly as a sharp blade is crucial for getting a close shave. The risk of nicks, cuts and irritation increases the longer you use a blade. With a high performance razor like the Schick Hydro Silk you should replace cartridges after five uses to get an optimal shave.

What are the most common side-effects of shaving, and how can we avoid them.

There are no real side effects of shaving. Shaving is thought to make hair shaft thicker the more you shave but this is a myth. Hair feels blunt when it is cut blunt by a razor. The hair will taper itself naturally as it grows back to its genetically pre-determined length and thickness. The same as the hair on your scalp when it is first cut compared to 3 months later.

How can we avoid nicking skin around areas like nobly knees and ankles?

- Work on 2 cm sq areas at a time. 
- Remove shaving cream after softening for 5 minutes with fingers so you can see the skin for any area with loose skin.
- Commence at the hardest areas like the knees first. Do the hardest side first. It depending on what hand you hold the razor.
- Pull the skin with the free hand lifting upward with hands cupping the knee caps.
- Then place razor edge at the other opposing end parallel to hand.
- Use a flicking arching upward and outward action as you move up 1 cm at a time.

Is shaving with soap a good idea?

No, skin is acid and most soaps are too alkaline which dries out the skin. A moisturising shaving cream is best. Shaving cream foam expands on the skin to lift the hair at a better cutting angle.

Any other hot tips we should know about razor care?

1. Always run blade under warm water after shave stroke to unclog the blade as this will mean only one stroke is needed to cut the hair shaft clean against skin.

2. When shave is complete then use very hot water to sterilise blades for a few minutes.

3. Store in a dry place to prevent rust and bacteria growing and use a blow dryer to get it really dry immediately after.

Brought to you by Schick Hydro Silk.  

Want to try a free sample and test it for yourself? Head over to Schick Hydro Silk facebook page here for your chance to get a free sample.

Geoffrey Mahanay IAT Hair, Health and Beauty Specialist

A certified trichologist and cosmetologist, Geoffrey Mahanay holds multiple diplomas and bachelor degrees
related to men's and ladies hairdressing, beauty, trichology and education. He has been employed in the field of
hairdressing and salon management,and workplace training for30years. He has also held clinics intrichology
and beauty treatment for the past 15 years.