Lasers Over Razors: Dr. Gene Rubinstein Reveals That More Blades and a Closer Shave Could Be Bad For Your Face

Razor manufacturers seem to keep adding more and more blades to their razors. While more blades may mean a closer shave, Hollywood Dermatologist Dr. Gene Rubinstein points out that these new high tech razors could be shaving too closely.

(PRWEB) September 5, 2006 -- As popular razor companies keep adding more and more blades to their razors every few years, dermatologist Dr. Gene Rubinstein has been noticing another trend: men shaving too close! Razor companies seem to think the closer the shave the better. Just look at the ever increasing razor advertisements boasting four and five bladed razors, as well as vibrating razors that shave even closer. While more blades do mean a closer shave, it also makes men more susceptible to skin problems.

"The latest shaving razors with multiple blades actually shave so close that they cut hairs below the surface of the skin," says Dr. Rubinstein. These razors will actually pull the hair out of the skin a little before trimming it. "When this happens the skin can close over the hair follicle, trapping the hair. This can lead to ingrown hairs and even folliculitis, an infection of the skin." It's common for many men to ignore ingrown hairs but they need to see their dermatologist. "Anytime you have an infection such as folliculitis, you need to see a doctor," urges Dr. Rubinstein. "We can prescribe an antibiotic or a cream to get rid of the bacteria."

"Often times a better way to get smooth skin is to trade in your razor for a laser," reveals Dr. Rubinstein. Laser hair removal is an easy alternative to shaving that more and more men are using, especially on the neck areas where hair is usually undesirable yet more susceptible to irritation and bacterial infection.

For those men who just need to use those flashy multi-blade razors, there are several guidelines they should be following to avoid skin problems like razor burn, ingrown hairs and bacteria growth. Please Dr. Rubinstein's shaving tips below.

Dr. Gene (Gennady) Rubinstein is certified by the American Board of Dermatology and has had extensive training as a dermatologist including Boston University Medical School, UC Irvine, with additional laser dermatology training at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Rubinstein also serves as a Clinical Instructor of Dermatology at UCLA. He is constantly at the forefront of new developments in dermatology and is often approached by laser companies to conduct research and training. www.LAskinMD.com

Dr. Rubinstein's Tips for Getting the Perfect Shave:

• Do not shave immediately after waking since the skin on the face will be slightly swollen; wait 20 minutes.

• Use a facial soap or cleansing scrub to remove dead skin, dirt and oil. Do not use soap as this dries the skin.

• Always prep with warm water to make the skin more pliable and open the pores (showering first often accomplishes all of the above, but not too hot!)

• Use a shaving cream or gel specifically designed for shaving

• Always shave "with the grain" of your hair growth which can be determined by rubbing the hand over the stubble -- the direction that feels more rough is "against the grain". (Note: those who have previously been shaving against the grain to get a close shave will still get a close shave by shaving with the grain, though it may take a week or two for the face to adjust to the new method)

• Be methodical when you shave -- do not shave the same area twice, lift the blade after each stroke, and don't press too hard!

• Rinse your razor in hot water frequently -- a clogged razor will not perform well.

• When finished, rinse your face with cool water to remove excess cream, pat the face dry, do not rub.

• Avoid alcohol-based aftershaves as they dry the skin. Instead use a balm or toner with ingredients that will moisturize and nourish your skin. After-shave toners help remove any residue left over from shaving, close the pores, and refresh the skin.

• Rinse out the razor carefully with hot water at the end of the shave, tapping lightly on sink to dislodge clogged hair and cream. Air dry

• Blades should be changed every 4 to 6 shaves.

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