Shaving Upwards or Downwards - Which is Better?

Shaving is a grooming essential that men can enjoy in the comfort of their homes. Sometimes, it might lead to razor burns or skin irritations, especially if you have sensitive skin. There are various ways to avoid skin issues such as following a right shaving technique, using a right shaving product, and following pre-shave as well as post-shave practices.

One question that most men are confused with--should you be shaving upwards or downwards on your face?

There are pros and cons for both approaches—shaving against the grain and shaving with the grain.

We will understand both in short and conclude.

Shaving against the grain

Shaving against the grain is a great way to achieve a closer and faster shave. Unfortunately, the cons prevail over the benefits in case of this approach, as it also leads to razor burns, damaged hair follicles, and ingrown hair.

Facial hair grows in all directions, especially around the neck. When you drag the razor against its natural direction, you pull the hair back on itself. Hence, you get razor bumps and ingrown hair. On the other hand, you can do this repeatedly and effectively to score a closer shave. But, as we mentioned, the downsides negate any real benefits. An upwards shave may give you an ultimately clean and close shave, but it has the potential to damage and injure your skin which is an irritant and can cause immense discomfort and result in a shabby appearance.

Shaving upwards on face cuts your hair way closer to your skin or sometimes even beneath it that might lead to ingrown hair. This, in turn, gives you big and visible razor bumps that ruin your look.

Shaving with the grain

Sensitive skin can be an issue when it comes to shaving the face. Most men are reluctant towards shaving since they want to avoid of razor burns, skin irritation, and ingrown hair. So, if you are one of them, then we have a solution for you.

You must shave in the downwards direction as it protects you from getting razor burns or ingrown hair. Although shaving against the grain can undoubtedly give you a closer shave, it is not something you must follow if you have sensitive skin.

People with sensitive skin should shave with the grain as it leads to a close shave and minimizes skin irritation issues. The only thing is you need to follow proper shaving practices and use the right shaving products. Shaving with the grain is much more effortless and pain-free as compared to shaving upwards on the face.

There is a downside to everything, and this approach is no different. If you want a clean and smooth shave using this approach, you need to invest more time than required. You also need to team up your efforts and correct shaving technique with the excellent shaving equipment to achieve an actual close shave.

Check out the Gillette SkinGuard razor to enjoy a clean and smooth shave. The unique SkinGuard in between the blades shaves right through without hurting your skin. It is positioned in such a way that it works to minimize tug and pull cutting the hair at skin level, thus reducing contact between your skin and the blades. You can obtain the best results by using Gillette Series Sensitive Shave Gel before the shave. Achieve the best aftershave experience with the Gillette Series Arctic Ice Aftershave Splash.

Conclusion

Now, shaving against the grain can lead to various skin problems even if it helps you to achieve a close shave. There is no question of going with this approach if you have sensitive skin. We would suggest that you always shave with the grain as it is the best way to avoid any skin issues.