Bizarrely, shaving is a topic that generates lots of rumours, half-truths, and myths.
For instance, it’s often claimed that hair grows back thicker and darker after shaving, and that sharp razor blades will result in more nicks and cuts.
But is there any truth to any of this? With over 115 years’ experience in the shaving business, we’ve learnt a thing or two about male grooming, so we’ve taken a closer look at ten common shaving myths to uncover the truth.
Myth 1: Hair Grows Back Thicker, Darker and Faster After Shaving
If old wives ever did sit around telling shaving tales, this would be number one. Hair growth, thickness and colour are controlled by genes, not by how often you shave.
This myth likely originates from the fact that the first little bit of facial hair that grows back after a shave will be healthier than the longer hair you removed. This can give the illusion thicker, darker facial hair. What’s more, when you shave, you’re left with blunt ends of hair that can naturally look thicker and darker than what was there before.
Myth 2: Shaving is Damaging for Your Skin
Not necessarily. When your razor is not well designed or when it is old and dull, the blades can indeed damage and even cut the skin. This will lead to signs of shaving irritation such as redness, nicks and cuts, skin feeling itchy, hot and painful.
A good quality and well-designed razor will minimize the risk of shaving irritation and will ensure the skin is optimally protected from the blades. The risk can further be reduced by the right shaving technique: for instance by using plenty of shave prep and by not pressing too hard on the razor but taking light strokes instead.
Myth 3: You Should Only Let a Barber Trim Your Beard
When you’ve got access to the innovative technology and superior comfort of Gillette razors, you don’t need to pay for a barber to trim your beard. In fact, today, guys have plenty of tools at their disposal to craft the look they want from the comfort of their own bathroom:
- Experience the soothing sensation of a hot towel shave in your own bathroom with the GilletteLabs Heated Razor
- Benefit from a razor that mimics the movements of a barber’s hand with the ProGlide with FlexBall technology
- Trim evenly, shave closely and edge precisely with the Gillette All Purpose Styler and Beard Trimmer