Although shaving cream is crucial, you may not necessarily need to use it sometimes. So, can you use shaving cream with an electric razor?
The answer to this depends on the kind of electric razor you are using and the type of shaving mode you use. Hence, the answer to these questions is yes and no.
When Can You Use Shaving Cream with an Electric Razor?
In wet shaving
This is the process where you shave the hair while working very close to the skin.
To achieve this, you need to wet your hair and use shaving cream to prevent skin irritation while ensuring smooth movement of the razor, so you don’t cut the skin.
When You Don’t Need Shaving Cream
In dry shaving
Dry shaving is the process where you directly shave the hair without wetting it. This is usually done before taking a shower, and you cannot use shaving cream.
Many people invest in electric razors for this mode of shaving since the machine easily cuts dry hair without irritation.
Also, the majority of electric razors are designed to achieve dry shaving mode in most parts of the body.
How to Use Shaving Cream with an Electric Razor
- Wash your head well to remove dirt
- Then apply the shaving cream on the area to shave while massaging against the grain
- Allow the cream to settle for about 4 to 6 minutes. This helps to soften the hair before shaving
- Then get your razor and shave your head against the grain
How to Use an Electric Razor Safely Without Shaving Cream
- Be quick. This is a device that is run by electricity, and therefore, the longer it runs, the hotter it becomes, and this is where irritation on the skin occurs. The shavers are made with quite sharp blades shave faster before the motor overheats.
- Choose a razor with adjustable speed. At times you may opt to grow your beard to different sizes. The same applies to your head. In fact, it’s the head that’s the default area to consider shaving or not. So, if the hair is too thick, having a razor that can adjust to a high speed is crucial to ensure you do a good job. Keep in mind that it is safe to work with an electric razor.
- Choose an electric razor with more than one head. Working with a razor with more than one shaving head is more convenient since you can interchange the heads when handling different parts of the body, especially the head. Also, if one blade feels a bit dull, you can interchange it with a sharper head.
Verdict
An electric razor is a versatile device that can use shaving cream for wet shaving mode or opt for a dry shave that does not require a cream.
However, keep in mind that the kind of razor you use and the shaving method will still determine your safety and comfort.
Use the above-provided guide to prevent razor bumps and irritations when dry shaving with an electric razor.
If you opt for a wet shave that requires the cream, make sure to follow the right procedure and use the right cream for your skin.
Can You Use Soap As A Shaving Cream?
Are you wondering if you could lather up soap and use it as a shaving cream?
Perhaps because you don’t have shaving cream within your vicinity, or you’re just curious if the soap will make a good substitute.
This article will be your quick guide as we demystify the shaving process and whether soap will be a good fit.
However, before then, let’s quickly answer the question…
Can You Use Soap As a Shaving Cream?
The answer is YES. You can use soap in place of shaving cream.
Even though soap will not provide any moisturizing or lubricating effect, it can be used as a substitute when in a bind.
In fact, any soap will do. Hand soap, bath soap, bar soap, and body wash are great alternatives for shaving cream once you can lather up the soap very well to create a foamy effect.
However, as much as soaps are everywhere, easy to apply and rinse off, we do not recommend them because of the side effects.
Using Soap as shaving cream should be a one-off experience and not normalized.
Read on as we explore why soap should not be a permanent replacement for shaving cream.
Why You Should Not Always Use Soap As A Shaving Cream
Shaving creams are products that soften and moisturize your hair to make shaving easier. They create a lather that protects and lubricates the barrier between the skin and razor when you apply them.
As a result, there’s a lower risk of nicks, cuts, scraping, and damage on your skin.
Furthermore, in addition to the layer of protection, shaving cream offers hydration and lubrication to the skin when it’s in contact with the razor or shaving stick.
However, soaps do not have moisturizing or lubricating effects. So, razors do not glide easily on the skin when shaving.
You might have to insist on specific areas and end up with cuts, razor burns, nicks, and ingrown hair.
Additionally, Soap, like many other ingredients, could also dry out your skin. You could perhaps get an infection or bacteria from the soap residue that blunts the razor blade.
While Soap will do the trick once or twice, it’s not a long-term solution. The distinction between shaving cream and soap is vast and inevitable.
Wrapping up
We understand that sometimes you might be in a tight spot and not always have a choice. While soap is an excellent alternative to a shaving stick, please do not make it a habit because of the side effects.
Moreover, if shaving without shaving cream is your favorite option, you can still do it more safely.
Other natural shaving cream alternatives you could consider include; Olive oil, Aloe gel, Coconut oil, Baby oil, and Hair conditioner.
These natural alternatives will serve as an excellent lubricant and make it easier for a razor to glide smoothly over your skin.
Shaving soaps are also available for use. They are made for this purpose entirely.
Finally, Ensure you always use top-quality, clean, and sharp razor blades when shaving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to use soap as shaving cream?
Why not? There is nothing wrong with using soap as shaving cream, occasionally. It should not be taken as a permanent substitute as espoused above.
However, when you’re in need of one urgently and can’t get your hands on shaving cream, grab your soap and use it.
Is it okay to use soap instead of shaving cream?
Shaving creams have their purpose just as soaps have their purposes. Shaving creams are designed exactly for that, to soften the area you’re about to shave.
Soap can do some but won’t be as effective as shaving soap. It can even have negative consequences in the long run.
So, always use shaving cream for shaving and resort to soap when you can’t get one.
Can you shave with lotion?
You can. Lotion softens your skin and makes the hair in the target area soft. It should work similarly to shaving cream.
However, it’s always best to use your shaving cream instead of a lotion.
Not only for keeping your skin safe from nicks and cuts. But also to moisturize and keep the area soft and protected from infections.