A Dermatologist Reveals the Biggest Shaving Mistake to Avoid

Whether you're in a rush or just don’t feel like dealing with shaving cream, dry shaving might seem like a convenient shortcut. But while it may save time, it can also lead to skin irritation, ingrown hairs, and even infections.

Board-certified dermatologist Bruce Robinson, MD, explains why dry shaving isn’t ideal, how to minimize risks if you must do it, and which hair removal alternatives are better for your skin.

What Is Dry Shaving?

Dry shaving is exactly what it sounds like shaving without any water, shaving cream, or lubrication. While it’s faster than traditional wet shaving, it comes with several drawbacks that can impact your skin health.

The Risks of Dry Shaving

Skipping water and shaving cream may seem harmless, but dry shaving can lead to:

1. Skin Irritation and Sensitivity

Without lubrication, the razor scrapes against dry skin, increasing irritation, redness, and sensitivity. This is especially problematic for people with eczema or psoriasis, whose skin is already prone to dryness and inflammation.

2. Ingrown Hairs and Razor Bumps

Shaving dry hair prevents the razor from cutting smoothly, leading to unevenly cut hairs that are more likely to curl back into the skin, causing painful ingrown hairs and razor bumps.

3. Uneven Results

Because dry shaving doesn’t remove hair as closely as wet shaving, you may end up with a patchy or rough finish.

4. Increased Risk of Cuts and Infection

A dry razor can tug at the skin, increasing the chance of nicks and cuts. If bacteria enter these small wounds, you may develop an infection or even folliculitis a condition where hair follicles become inflamed.

How to Minimize Damage If You Must Dry Shave

If dry shaving is unavoidable, follow these steps to reduce irritation and other risks:

• Use a clean, sharp razor: A dull blade increases friction and skin damage.

• Make sure your skin is clean: This helps prevent bacteria from entering any cuts or abrasions.

• Shave in the direction of hair growth: This reduces irritation and minimizes the risk of ingrown hairs.

• Moisturize afterward: Apply a hydrating lotion or oil to soothe the skin and lock in moisture.

• Use an electric trimmer instead: Trimmers don’t shave as closely as razors, but they reduce irritation and the risk of ingrown hairs.

Better Alternatives to Dry Shaving

If you want to avoid the downsides of dry shaving, consider these hair removal methods:

1. Waxing

Waxing removes hair at the root, providing longer-lasting smoothness (up to several weeks). However, it can be painful, and improper technique can cause burns or irritation.

2. Depilatory Creams

Depilatory creams (like Nair) dissolve hair with chemicals, offering a painless alternative to shaving. However, they can cause skin irritation, so always do a patch test before use.

3. Laser Hair Removal

For a long-term solution, laser hair removal destroys hair follicles to prevent regrowth. It’s particularly effective for people who struggle with ingrown hairs, though it requires multiple sessions and can be costly.

The Bottom Line

Dry shaving might be tempting when you're short on time, but it’s not worth the potential skin irritation, ingrown hairs, or infections. When possible, opt for wet shaving with proper lubrication or consider a longer-lasting hair removal method like waxing or laser treatments.

For more dermatologist-backed skincare tips, subscribe to our newsletter.