Hair removal is one of those grooming activities that almost everyone has done at least once. And in your quest for smoother skin, you may have wondered: Do you exfoliate before or after shaving? You might have mastered how to exfoliate from head to toe and you may also know how to shave your legs like a pro, but combining these two beautification activities can be a game-changer—if you do it right.
You don’t need to be an expert to know the importance of exfoliating for shaving, but knowing whether to exfoliate before or after shaving (or waxing) can be tricky. Ahead, learn everything you need to know about exfoliation and hair removal and when to do each for soft, smooth-feeling skin.
Let’s get down to business: Should you exfoliate before you shave? The quick answer is yes, according to the Cleveland Clinic. You should exfoliate your skin prior to shaving, as exfoliating first can help prevent the razor from becoming clogged with dead skin cells (which can reduce its effectiveness). In other words, exfoliating first is a serious pro tip for a closer shave. A proper pre-shave exfoliation routine can also help prevent common concerns like razor bumps and razor burn.
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What are the benefits of exfoliating before shaving?
Not only can exfoliating prior to shaving help you get a more thorough shave (and, in turn, smoother skin), but it can also help prevent ingrown hairs. The type of exfoliant you reach for should be guided by your skin type per the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Scrubs and other types of mechanical exfoliants are best suited for those with oilier skin, while those with sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin may want to consider a gentler approach.
Where you plan to shave matters, too. If you’re shaving your face, we suggest skipping the scrub in favor of a gentle exfoliating face wash like the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives 3.5% Glycolic Acid Cleanser. The mild formula with glycolic acid and salicylic acid helps remove impurities like dirt, oil, and makeup while resurfacing the skin to reveal a smoother, brighter-looking complexion. It’s suitable for all skin types and can be used daily (or nightly) as the first step in your skincare routine.
How to exfoliate before shaving
How you’ll want to approach your exfoliation routine depends on the type of exfoliant you’re using (mechanical or chemical).
If you’re opting for a mechanical exfoliant, like a scrub, you’ll want to exfoliate in the shower. Apply a small amount of your chosen scrub to clean, damp skin, and massage the gritty formula onto your skin in circular motions for about 30 seconds, then rinse with lukewarm water. Be sure not to use too much pressure, as doing so could irritate your skin. Those with especially sensitive skin may want to skip the scrub altogether and simply wash up using a loofah or washcloth to help remove dead surface skin cells.
Because chemical exfoliants can come in an array of formats, from cleansers to serums and more, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to using one. We recommend consulting the instructions on the packaging of your chosen product to get a clearer idea of how—and when—to use it.
How to exfoliate safely
Exfoliation is useful for many reasons, but it’s crucial to do it properly: Over-exfoliating can lead to redness, dryness, and irritation. In addition to selecting the right exfoliation method for your skin type, here are a few tips to help ensure your exfoliation routine goes smoothly (pun intended):
- Know when to skip it: Avoid exfoliating if you have any cuts or scrapes or if your skin is sunburned to avoid worsening existing irritation.
- Take stock of the other products you use: If you use retinol, skip exfoliating—or at least, exfoliate less frequently. According to the AAD, retinoids can sometimes make the skin more sensitive, and exfoliating while using one can exacerbate sensitivity.
- Don’t overdo it: Exfoliation doesn’t have to be done every day to be effective. The stronger the exfoliant, the less often it should be used. Start by exfoliating once weekly, then shave after. If all goes well, you may be able to increase the frequency to two or three times per week—just make sure the product you’re using is suitable for more frequent use.
- Always moisturize after exfoliating (and shaving): Exfoliating can be drying. The AAD recommends applying plenty of moisturizer after exfoliating to help hydrate your skin.
