For many Aussie blokes, shaving is a daily ritual—part of the morning routine that sits somewhere between coffee and complaining about traffic. But while it might leave you looking sharp, shaving can also wreak havoc on your skin if you’re not taking proper care of it. Razor burn, ingrown hairs, redness, and that “my face is on fire” feeling aren’t just bad luck—they’re your skin’s way of saying, “mate, we need to talk.” Luckily, with the right routine and a few smart products—like a glycolic cleanser, a retinal night cream, and some solid active skincare for men—you can keep your skin calm, smooth, and ready to face the day.
What Shaving Really Does to Your Skin
Every time you shave, you’re not just cutting hair—you’re also removing a thin layer of your skin’s surface. That’s why your skin can feel tight, dry, or irritated afterwards. The blade creates micro-tears, disrupts your skin barrier, and can trigger inflammation—especially if you’re using dull razors or skipping skincare.
For men with sensitive or acne-prone skin, shaving can make things worse by spreading bacteria and clogging pores. This is where using a glycolic cleanser before shaving can make a world of difference. Glycolic acid helps remove dead skin cells and excess oil, giving you a smoother canvas for your razor to glide across. Fewer bumps, less irritation, and a closer shave—it’s a win all around.
Pre-Shave Prep: Don’t Skip It
If you want to stop your skin from rebelling post-shave, start with a good prep. Shaving on dry or dirty skin is one of the worst things you can do. Begin with warm water or a hot towel to soften your facial hair and open your pores. Then, wash your face with your glycolic cleanser to exfoliate gently and lift away any grime or oil that could clog your razor.
Follow up with a quality shaving cream or gel that cushions your skin and reduces friction. Skip the cheap foamy stuff—it’s usually packed with drying alcohols that’ll make irritation worse.
During the Shave: Technique Matters
Think of shaving as skincare with a side of patience. Always use a clean, sharp razor, and shave in the direction your hair grows (against the grain might give you a closer shave, but it’ll also give you more irritation). Rinse the blade often, and don’t go over the same patch of skin too many times.
If you’re prone to ingrown hairs, consider doing short, gentle strokes rather than long ones. This reduces friction and helps prevent hairs from curling back into the skin.
Post-Shave Care: Repair and Replenish
After shaving, your skin needs TLC—not an alcohol-laden splash that stings like a thousand bees. Rinse your face with cool water to close your pores, pat (don’t rub) dry, and reach for something soothing and restorative.
Here’s where your retinal night cream comes in clutch. Retinal (the more potent cousin of retinol) helps speed up skin cell turnover and repair microscopic damage caused by shaving. It also tackles fine lines, uneven texture, and post-shave roughness, making it an absolute powerhouse for men who want their skin to look fresh and healthy.
You can also finish with a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturiser or vitamin C serum to lock in hydration—especially if you’re using active skincare for men that includes ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides. And don’t forget your daily sunscreen, please.
Common Shaving Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
Let’s be honest—most men aren’t taught how to shave properly. Here are a few common blunders to avoid:
- Using old razors: Dull blades cause friction and increase the risk of nicks and razor burn. Replace them every 5–7 shaves.
- Skipping exfoliation: Dead skin cells trap hairs, leading to ingrowns. A pre-shave cleanser solves this.
- Going too hard: Pressing too firmly on your razor doesn’t give a closer shave—it just tears up your skin.
- Ignoring post-shave care: Without a hydrating product or cream, you’re leaving your skin vulnerable.
Keep It Simple, Keep It Smart
Your skin isn’t the enemy; it’s just asking for better treatment. A good shave doesn’t need a 12-step ritual or a cabinet full of overpriced products. Just a few smart moves like cleansing, hydrating, and repairing with active skincare for men can make all the difference. Think of it like maintaining your car: regular care prevents breakdowns. So, invest in a decent razor, use a quality glycolic cleanser before shaving, and wind down at night with a retinal night cream to help your skin recover. Your face will thank you every morning.
