How to Shave Your Face Using a Shea Butter Stick
Have you ever looked at the shaving creams and razors your guy uses and wondered if they might work for you too? You're not alone. You may be considering tackling shaving your face due to unwanted facial hair or even hormonal hair growth, and there are tools that can make the process smooth.
A shea butter stick, in particular, is a simple, inexpensive tool that can give you a close shave without the irritation of synthetic products. Here's your guide to shaving like a pro with a shea butter stick. By the end, you'll wonder why you didn't start this skin care ritual sooner.
Hirsutism
Many women experience excess facial hair growth, known as Hirsutism. For some, the cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal imbalance where androgen levels are elevated. If you have PCOS or Hirsutism, shaving your face may be part of your hair removal routine. Using a shea butter stick, also called a shave soap stick, is an easy way to get a close, smooth shave.
A shea butter stick looks like a deodorant stick. You swipe it directly onto wet skin to create a rich lather. Shea butter sticks provide lubrication so your razor can glide easily over the skin without irritation. They also soften the hair, allowing for a closer shave. The lather rinses away cleanly without leaving any greasy residue.
How to Use a Shea Butter Stick
To use a shea butter stick, wet your face with warm water. Swipe the shea butter stick several times over the areas you want to shave until you have a thick layer of lather. Let it sit for a minute to soften the hair. Use a safety razor, cartridge razor, or electric shaver and shave in the direction of hair growth using light, short strokes. Rinse your face with water and pat dry with a towel.
Shave sticks can reduce irritation from shaving compared to shaving without lubrication. The lather cushions and protects the skin, minimizing redness and razor burn. It leaves skin feeling soft and smooth. An alcohol-free, shea butter shave stick is even more soothing and hydrating.
Shaving frequently, especially for women with PCOS or Hirsutism, can be a hassle. But using the right tools and techniques makes the process easier and more comfortable. A shave stick is a simple product that can significantly improve your shaving experience. With regular use, you’ll enjoy smoother, hair-free skin and gain confidence in your appearance.
Prepping Your Skin for a Close Shave
Prepping Your Skin for a Close Shave
Before you apply your shave stick and start shaving, you need to properly prepare your skin. This will help soften your facial hair and open up your pores, allowing for a closer shave with less irritation.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating removes dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. Do this 1-2 times a week before shaving to unclog hair follicles and prevent ingrown hairs. You can use a facial scrub, chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid, or facial brush. Gently massage the exfoliant into your skin and then rinse well with warm water.
After shaving, we recommend avoiding physical exfoliants for a day or two after shaving to give your skin time to heal first.
Wash Your Face
Wash your face with a mild cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, and makeup. Use lukewarm water and gently massage the cleanser into your skin with your fingertips. Rinse well with water and pat dry with a clean towel. Make sure your skin is damp before applying your shave product. Hint: we love our African Black Soap face wash.
Apply a Warm Washcloth
Place a warm, wet washcloth over your face for 1-2 minutes before shaving. The heat will soften your hair and open up pores, allowing for a closer shave. Rinse the washcloth with warm water and lay it over your jawline, chin, upper lip, and any other areas you plan to shave.
Lather Up
Swipe the shea butter stick up and down the areas you want to shave until you have a thin coat of product on your skin. Use your shaving brush to work the shave stick into a rich lather, brushing in small circular motions. Add a few drops of water to achieve your desired consistency. Make sure the entire area you plan to shave is covered in lather.
Shave Carefully
Rinse your razor frequently under warm water to prevent clogs. Shave in the direction of hair growth using light, short strokes. Rinse your razor after every few strokes. Be very careful around the chin and jawline.
Rinse and Moisturize
Rinse your face with warm water to remove any remaining shave product. Pat dry gently with a towel. Apply a moisturizer to hydrate your skin and prevent irritation. Look for a moisturizer containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, jojoba oil or dimethicone.
Moisturizing immediately after shaving will help to soothe your skin and hydrate it. You may also want to apply a serum with antioxidants like vitamin C or E that can help repair any minor skin damage from shaving.
Aftercare Tips to Avoid Irritation and Ingrown Hairs
After shaving, it’s important to properly care for your skin to avoid irritation, redness, and ingrown hairs. Your face will thank you for the extra TLC. Here are some aftercare tips to keep in mind:
Toner
An alcohol-free toner can help restore your skin’s pH balance after shaving and moisturize. Witch hazel, rose water, and chamomile toners are natural, soothing options.
Avoid Harsh Products
In the days following your shave, avoid harsh skin care products containing fragrances, sulfates, alcohol or retinoids which can irritate freshly shaved skin.
Let Your Skin Breathe
Give your face a break from makeup and skin care products when possible. Letting your skin breathe will prevent clogged pores and allow your natural oils to moisturize and heal your skin.
By following these tips, you'll be on your way to a smooth, shaved face! We recommend sticking to a regular routine and your freshly shaven face will thank you.