Can I Shave with Conditioner?
Using conditioner or shower gel for shaving is a cost-saving tip often found in wellness magazines, but does it really deliver?
Well, according to dermatologist Dr. Anita Sturnham, it's not the best advice. She argues that swapping out proper shaving cream or oil for conditioner or shower gel isn't beneficial. In fact, it could hinder achieving a smooth shave.
Dr. Sturnham explains, "Shaving naturally exfoliates, so you need products that work with your razor to enhance glide, minimize friction, and reduce the risk of irritation and cuts." Conditioners and shower gels tend to "coat" hairs, making them thicker and harder to shave.
With thicker hairs, these products can clog your razor, dulling the blades and increasing the chances of cuts. This means you'll end up spending more on replacing blades more frequently.
Conclusion:
If you're using conditioner or shower gel and satisfied with your shave, keep at it. But remember, we should all be mindful of the ingredients we use on our skin, especially post-shave when there are micro-abrasions. Choose products with clean ingredients. If saving money is your goal, a shaving soap is a great budget-friendly alternative.
And for an enhanced shaving experience, exfoliate first to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs. Then invest in a quality shaving soap and oil. You'll find you won't need to moisturize after, which is a nice bonus!
