Do Electric Razors Cause Ingrown Hairs? What You Need to Know

Ingrown hairs can be a nightmare to manage. They’re itchy, painful, and sometimes filled with pus, making you wonder if shaving is even worth it. Ingrown hairs, however, can be caused by several things, and it may not be shaving that causes them, but rather your razor.

If shaving just keeps causing pesky razor bumps, you might consider switching over to an electric shaver. It may just be the answer you’re looking for. Find out what causes ingrown hairs, how electric razors factor in, and what to do to prevent them.

What Are Ingrown Hairs and How Do They Form?

Ingrown hairs are hairs that curl and grow back into the skin rather than straight out. They can cause inflammation, redness, and bumps. These bumps can be itchy or painful and can cause discoloration.

These hairs usually heal themselves within a couple of weeks, as they will typically release themselves from under the skin as they grow longer. However, sometimes infections can occur around the affected area. Infected ingrown hairs can develop into larger and more painful bumps, which may sometimes fill with pus and lead to scarring.

Typically, these ingrown hairs form after hair removal, whether that’s shaving, tweezing, or waxing. When new hairs grow from follicles under the skin, they may curl back and enter the skin. The skin sees the hair as a foreign body and reacts, causing the aforementioned symptoms. Bacteria entering the inflamed follicle run the risk of infection.

Ingrown hairs are more common among those with thick or curly hair and typically appear around the beard area, pubic area, and armpits. They can be caused by dead skin cells clogging the hair follicles, or even from tight clothing rubbing the hair back into the skin.

Ingrown hairs can be removed through a few methods. Gentle exfoliation removes dead skin cells and helps release the hairs. Use warm water and an exfoliating brush to apply the exfoliating gel in small, circular motions, then wash the affected area. Ingrown hairs can also be remedied using sterile tweezers. Apply rubbing alcohol to the surrounding skin to prevent infection, then use the tweezers to gently lift the exposed hair loop until one end releases.

Electric Razors vs. Other Razors: How They Work

Cartridge razors are one of the most common tools used for shaving. They feature a replaceable head with multiple blades stacked in a cartridge. The first blade typically lifts the hair while the subsequent blades cut it, usually below the skin’s surface. The head typically pivots to follow the curve of the face or body, helping maintain contact with the skin. While convenient and easy to use, these razors can cause skin irritation since they cut below skin level and run the risk of nicks and cuts.

Safety razors are a popular alternative to cartridge razors. This type of razor holds a single blade at a fixed angle with a protective guard preventing the sharp edge from meeting too much skin. They need very little to no pressure and a specific angle to cut hair at the skin level. For this reason, these razors require a more advanced technique to achieve a clean shave without nicks or cuts.

Electric razors come in two types: foil and rotary shavers. Foil shavers feature a thin, perforated sheet of metal that covers the internal oscillating blades, which cut the hair as it enters through the holes in the foil. Rotary shavers feature a similar protective barrier in the form of circular heads and use spinning blades to cut the hair. Due to the guard on electric razors, the blades don’t cut the hair directly at the skin level, as traditional razors do.

The greatest difference between electric razors and traditional ones is the speed and convenience on offer. Electric razors do not require shaving cream or extensive prep, meaning they can provide a quick shave for everyday touch-ups. Because of the protective barrier between the skin and blades, electric razors don’t shave as close to the skin as alternatives. While this means a less smooth shave, it also means less risk of skin irritation and ingrown hairs.

Do Electric Shavers Increase the Risk of Ingrown Hairs?

Electric shavers don’t typically increase the risk of ingrown hairs. The protective guard prevents it from cutting hair too deeply, so there’s less risk of the hair curling back into the skin. Traditional razors, on the other hand, cut at or below the skin level, risking the chance of the hair growing back toward the skin.

Cartridge razors are especially infamous for causing ingrown hairs. They’re designed to lift the hair and cut it below the skin’s surface, encouraging the hair to grow back into the skin, especially if you have curly hair. Plus, the multiple blades irritate the skin even more, as if you were passing a single blade over the same spot multiple times.

Safety razors are much more effective at minimizing ingrown hairs. They use a single blade, which means fewer passes, and they don’t manipulate the hair before cutting; they simply cut it at the surface. However, safety razors require some getting used to, and without proper technique, you run the risk of cuts, nicks, and yes, ingrown hairs.

Electric razors can increase the risk of ingrown hairs in a few ways. For example, dull blades can tug at the hair and irritate follicles, and excessive pressure or shaving against the grain can cut too close, creating sharp edges that encourage re-entry into the skin. Ensure your blades are clean and sharp, and use proper shaving technique.

Even with the right equipment, dry shaving with an electric razor can irritate the skin and cause ingrown hairs. However, many modern shavers can be used with shaving cream or gel for a more gentle shave. Shaving creams and gels soften the hair and hydrate the skin, reducing friction.

Safe Shaving Practices to Minimize Ingrown Hairs

As mentioned above, electric shavers minimize ingrown hairs because they don’t cut below the skin’s surface. Cartridge razors lift the hair before cutting it, meaning when the hair settles, it will lie under the skin, running the risk of ingrown hairs. While safety razors eliminate this issue, they require more technique to ensure a clean shave without cuts.

There are other steps you can take to further minimize ingrown hairs. Before shaving, wash your skin with warm water and a cleanser to remove dirt and oils that can clog pores. Similarly, gently exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin. Use quality products that are gentle on your skin to prevent irritation.

Shave using a shaving cream or gel to lift and soften the hair. Massage the product into the skin and let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate fully. A quality lather provides a smooth surface for your blade to glide on while protecting your skin. Routinely clean your shaver’s blades to remove gunk that can find its way onto your skin. Use the fewest number of passes possible and avoid pulling the skin taut when shaving, as this causes hair to draw back into the skin.

Shave with the grain, since going against the grain can cause sharp edges that can make piercing the skin easier. Remember that hair does not grow in one direction, so you’ll have to feel your hair, figure out how it grows, and where it shifts and swirls for the best shave direction.

Don’t forget to take care of your skin after you’re done shaving. Rinse your skin with cool water to calm any irritation and close pores, preventing bacteria from lodging under your skin. Apply a quality aftershave to soothe and hydrate the skin, reducing irritation. Avoid wearing tight clothing over the freshly shaved areas, and don’t shave too often, as it can irritate the skin.

If you notice ingrown hairs, stop shaving and allow the hair to grow out naturally. Apply warm compresses with a clean, damp towel to the affected area to open up your pores and help release the ingrown hair. Do not scratch or pop ingrown hairs, as that can cause infection or scarring.

Choosing the Right Electric Razor to Reduce Ingrown Hairs

The right electric razor will cover your skin’s needs. Choose a model with wet/dry capabilities to ensure it can be used with shaving cream. Ensure it’s easy to clean to avoid debris buildup and that they provide a reliable guard with strong blades to prevent skin irritation and hair tugging.

The BaldiePro™ by Groomie® offers both wet and dry shaving for quick touch-ups and ultimate grooming. Its 10,000 RPM motor provides plenty of power to mow down hair without tugging. The ultra-thin foils and flexible rotary blades deliver a razor-like shave while contouring to your face and body, so you don’t need to pull your skin or worry about nicks and cuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Razor To Avoid Ingrown Hairs?

The best razor to avoid ingrown hairs is an electric razor with clean, sharp blades. The guard on these razors ensures the hair isn’t cut so short that it can grow back into the skin. For a closer shave, consider a safety razor with minimal passes.

Is It Bad To Shave With an Electric Razor?

No, it’s not bad to shave with an electric razor. A quality one can offer a speedy and convenient method of shaving. While it may not deliver as close a shave as traditional razors, it reduces the risk of skin irritation and ingrown hairs, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.

How To Shave To Avoid Ingrown Hairs?

Begin by taking a warm shower or using a warm compress to open your pores. Cleanse and exfoliate your skin to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Use shaving cream and sharp, clean blades. Shave toward the grain with gentle strokes, rinsing the blades after each pass. Use light pressure and the fewest passes possible.

Groomie's® Electric Razors Can Help You Reduce Ingrown Hairs

Ingrown hairs can make shaving a hassle. If traditional razors are causing razor bumps, it may be time to try out an electric razor. These machines cut hair slightly above the skin’s surface to prevent the hair from growing inward, and some models can be used with a lather for an even more gentle experience.

Reduce ingrown hairs with the Groomie® BaldiePro™. The rotary shaver provides a close shave while preventing nicks and cuts for an irritation-free experience. Its wet/dry functionality allows you to take it on the go or use it for a full-blown luxury grooming. Achieve a clean, smooth look and shop Groomie® today.