Should you exfoliate before or after shaving

Should You Exfoliate Before or After Shaving? Your July Guide to Holiday-Ready, Bump-Free Skin

Get holiday-ready skin with our July shaving guide. Should you exfoliate before or after shaving to prevent razor burn and ingrown hairs on your summer getaway.

Contents

#1 Best Seller Worldwide

Air 10

SHOP NOW £369.99
Get holiday-ready skin with our July shaving guide. Should you exfoliate before or after shaving to prevent razor burn and ingrown hairs on your summer getaway.

Should You Exfoliate Before or After Shaving? Summer Guide

In a last-minute holiday prep panic? Your suitcase is half-packed, your flight’s tomorrow, and you’ve just realised your legs aren’t quite ready for those sunny beach days. No worries. Your July holiday shaving routine can sort that out. The burning question on your mind: should you exfoliate before or after shaving? The answer is clear. Exfoliate before.


A pre-shave scrub lifts stubborn hairs and sloughs off dead skin, giving your razor a smooth path to glide along while preventing irritation, razor burn, and ingrown hairs. It's the key to achieving that smooth, holiday-ready skin.


If you skip the exfoliation, you risk clogged pores, bumps, or irritation—definitely not ideal when you're about to hit the beach in a sundress in Spain, Greece, or Turkey.


It’s not just about grabbing a razor; it's about getting the timing right. Think of exfoliation like sweeping crumbs before vacuuming. Skip that step, and the results won’t be as smooth. Once you’ve done the pre-shave prep, you're good to go. And if you're thinking of post-shave exfoliation, wait 24–48 hours so your skin can recover properly.


Here's what’s ahead: quick fixes for holiday-ready skin, plus expert tips to help you perfect your July shaving routine, avoid razor burn, and flaunt smooth legs all summer. No fluff, just what you need.

Should you exfoliate before or after shaving this summer

The Science Behind Smooth: Why Dead Skin Cells Are Your Razor's Worst Enemy

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. It's an essential step before shaving that can make all the difference between a smooth, irritation-free shave and a painful experience. Think of your skin like a chalkboard: over time, it collects dirt, oil, and dead skin cells that need to be swept away.


That’s exactly what exfoliation does. Without it, dead skin cells clog your pores, hinder the razor’s glide, and can lead to uneven hair removal or razor bumps.

How Exfoliation Affects Hair Follicles at a Cellular Level

When you exfoliate, you're doing more than just sloughing off dead skin cells. You’re also clearing the way for healthier hair growth by preventing follicles from becoming clogged.


Your skin is always regenerating. New cells are created in the deeper layers, and older cells rise to the surface. Over time, those dead cells can accumulate, clogging hair follicles and disrupting the natural hair growth cycle.


Exfoliation removes this buildup, not only clearing your pores but also unblocking hair follicles. This helps the hair grow properly, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs.


In fact, research published in the Journal of Dermatology (2021) highlights the importance of skin preparation before shaving, with only one-third of manual shavers and 13% of electric shavers reporting pre-shave preparation

At the cellular level, exfoliation helps to:

  1. Promote Healthy Hair Growth: By clearing dead skin and sebum (the natural oils produced by your skin) from hair follicles, exfoliation reduces the chances of hair becoming trapped beneath the skin. This is key for preventing ingrown hairs, as a blocked follicle can cause hair to grow sideways or curl back into the skin rather than upwards.

  2. Stimulate Blood Flow - The Pre-Shave Secret That Salon Professionals Don't Want You to Know: Exfoliating also boosts circulation to the skin’s surface. Improved blood flow provides the hair follicles with the essential nutrients they need, supporting stronger, healthier hair growth.

  3. Enhance Razor Glide: A smooth, exfoliated surface helps your razor glide effortlessly across your skin. This reduces friction, minimizing irritation and preventing razor bumps by ensuring the razor isn’t pushing dead skin into your pores or follicles.

The Two Types of Exfoliation: Physical vs. Chemical

Exfoliation can be done in two ways: physical (scrubs, brushes, loofahs) or chemical (alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids like glycolic or salicylic acid). Physical exfoliants give instant results but should be used gently, especially on sensitive areas. Chemical exfoliants, on the other hand, work more subtly and are best applied 24 hours before shaving to prevent irritation.


Both methods bring powerful benefits to your shaving routine. Exfoliation isn’t just about achieving glowing skin. It’s your secret weapon for a closer, bump-free shave.

Types of Exfoliation: Physical and Chemical

The Pre-Shave Secret That Salon Professionals Don't Want You to Know

Ever wondered why your shave isn’t as smooth as it could be? The secret could be simple: exfoliating before shaving. A solid pre-shave exfoliation routine can turn a mediocre shave into a silky-smooth one. It helps prevent ingrown hairs and prepares your skin for a smoother, more comfortable shave.

Lifts Trapped Hairs

When dead skin cells build up, they can clog hair follicles, causing hairs to grow sideways instead of upwards. Hello, ingrown hairs. Exfoliating before shaving helps lift those trapped hairs, making it easier for your razor to glide through the hair and reducing the risk of bumps.

Creates a Smoother Surface

Think of your skin like sandpaper: the rougher the surface, the more your razor drags, causing irritation and uneven results. Exfoliating smooths out the skin, allowing the blade to glide effortlessly, minimising the chances of nicks, irritation, and razor burn.

Prevents Clogged Pores

If you skip exfoliation, you risk pushing dead skin cells and bacteria into your pores when you shave, which can lead to breakouts or redness. A quick exfoliating session clears the way, keeping pores open and calm

Boosts Shaving Efficiency

Did you know that proper pre-shave exfoliation can actually reduce shaving time by up to 30%? Dermatological studies show that prepping the skin correctly makes the shave process quicker and more efficient.

Best Routine Tip:

Use a gentle physical exfoliant, like a mild sugar scrub or washcloth, right before your shave. If you prefer chemical exfoliants, such as AHAs or BHAs, apply them 12–24 hours before shaving to allow your skin to absorb them properly and avoid irritation.

The Controversial Method: When Exfoliating AFTER Shaving Actually Works

Exfoliating after shaving might seem counterintuitive to some, but for the right skin type and goals, it can be a big help in your post-shave skincare routine. While exfoliation before shaving is widely celebrated, exfoliating afterward can bring real benefits, especially if you’re trying to remove dead skin without irritating freshly shaved skin.

Why It Works

Even after a shave, tiny flakes of dead skin remain. Gentle post-shave exfoliation helps clear these away, preventing the buildup of dead skin around hair follicles, which can lead to ingrown hairs or dull-looking skin. This step can make a significant difference in achieving smoother, clearer skin, particularly when you're trying to keep razor bumps at bay.

Gentler on Sensitive Skin

Shaving already leaves your skin a little fragile, and harsh exfoliation can make it worse. That’s why post-shave exfoliation should always be done gently. Skip the aggressive scrubs and instead use softer alternatives like konjac sponges, soft washcloths, or a mild AHA (like lactic or mandelic acid) diluted in toner or moisturiser. These are more soothing than stripping, which helps your skin recover while still getting rid of dead skin.

Best Timing for Post-Shave Exfoliation

Timing is key! You’ll want to wait at least 24–48 hours post-shave to exfoliate, so your skin has time to recover and isn’t irritated. Depending on your skin's sensitivity, you can exfoliate 2–3 times a week. This routine will help you avoid clogged pores, keep your skin smooth, and reduce irritation, especially if you tend to get razor bumps

The Bottom Line

Post-shave exfoliation isn’t about scrubbing away layers of skin aggressively. It’s about finishing the job delicately and locking in a calm, clean feeling. This step tackles dead skin remnants, prevents ingrown hairs, and helps keep your skin radiant and happy.

Dermatologists Settle the Debate: The Truth About Exfoliation Timing (You've Been Doing It Wrong)

Let’s settle the debate once and for all: Exfoliating before shaving is usually the best option, and dermatologists agree.


Why does this matter? Think of dead skin cells as tiny speed bumps. If you shave without exfoliating, those bumps can cause your razor to drag, leading to irritation, uneven hair removal, and even ingrown hairs.


A 2012 review by the British Association of Dermatologists found that exfoliating before shaving can improve the shaving experience by softening the hair and helping to restore skin hydration. And it’s not just them: Dr. Sarah AllenMD said that "It is great to remove dead skin and debris to leave your skin feeling silky smooth," It may help diminish signs of aging, enhance the effectiveness of other skincare products, minimize sun damage, prevent ingrown hairs, promote a radiant complexion, clear out pores, and offer additional benefits.

Settle the debate: should you shave before or after exfoliating

So, what’s the best exfoliation timing for different skin types?

1. Normal/Combination Skin

For normal or combination skin, exfoliating 12–24 hours before shaving is the sweet spot. This gives your skin time to reset and reduces the risk of irritation.

Routine:

  • Use a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid, which gently dissolves dead skin cells without scrubbing.

  • Physical exfoliants (like a mild sugar scrub or exfoliating mitt) can also be used right before shaving for a more immediate effect.

  • Finish off with a lightweight moisturiser and sunscreen to keep your skin balanced and protected after shaving.

2. Oily/Thick Hair

Oily skin and thick hair benefit the most from exfoliating right before shaving. Exfoliation removes excess oils and dead skin, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts or ingrown hairs.

Routine:

  • Exfoliate with a gentle physical scrub or mild chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid, which penetrates deeply into pores to remove excess sebum.

  • Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating brush to lift trapped hairs, especially in areas where hair growth is denser, like legs or underarms.

  • Follow up with a soothing post-shave balm or gel to calm and hydrate the skin after shaving.

3. Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to exfoliate after shaving, once your skin has had time to calm down. Exfoliating too soon can lead to redness, irritation, and discomfort.

Routine:

  • Wait 24 hours post-shave to let your skin recover before exfoliating.

  • Use a gentle, hydrating chemical exfoliant like lactic acid, which is much gentler than stronger acids.

  • Avoid physical scrubs or harsh exfoliants, as they can irritate the skin.

  • Apply a fragrance-free moisturiser after exfoliation to lock in hydration and promote healing.

4. Dry/Eczema-Prone Skin

For dry or eczema-prone skin, exfoliating after shaving, with extra care, is important to avoid stripping away the skin's natural oils, which could lead to increased dryness or irritation.

Routine:

  • Exfoliate gently 24 hours after shaving to give the skin time to recover.
  • Use gentle chemical exfoliants like mandelic acid, which helps remove dead skin cells without compromising the skin's barrier.
  • Finish with a rich moisturiser that contains ceramides or hyaluronic acid to replenish lost moisture and keep your skin hydrated.

Quick Guide for Exfoliation Timing Based on Skin Type:

  • Normal/Combination Skin: Exfoliate 12–24 hours before shaving using glycolic acid or a gentle scrub right before shaving.

  • Oily/Thick Hair: Exfoliate right before shaving with a gentle physical scrub or salicylic acid.

  • Sensitive Skin: Exfoliate after shaving , 24 hours later, using a hydrating chemical exfoliant like lactic acid.

  • Dry/Eczema-Prone Skin: Exfoliate a day after shaving with a mild chemical exfoliant (mandelic acid) and follow up with a rich moisturiser.

Before Shaving Is Best for Most People

In general, exfoliating before shaving works best for most people. However, it’s important to listen to your skin. If you have sensitive or dry skin, consider waiting until after shaving to exfoliate, or opt for gentler exfoliants to avoid irritation. The right exfoliation timing and method can make all the difference, leaving your skin smooth, healthy, and ready for anything.

Exfoliate before shaving

Why Summer Shaving Fails (And the 5-Minute Fix That Changes Everything)

Dealing with shaving issues in July? You’re not alone. Shaving during the peak of summer can be tricky. Hot weather can make hair removal a challenge, leading to irritation, razor burn, and those stubborn ingrown hairs. Whether you're heading to the beach or just trying to stay smooth in the heat, these simple shaving tips will help save your skin.

Heat + Shaving = Sensitive Skin Struggles

In hot weather, your skin is already more sensitive because of increased sweat, sunscreen, and constant friction from summer clothes. Shaving adds to this stress, making your skin even more prone to irritation.


  • Shave at Night: During the day, your skin is exposed to heat and UV rays, which can increase sensitivity. Shaving at night gives your skin time to calm down and recover before sun exposure.

  • Use Lightweight Moisturisers: After shaving, always moisturise with a lightweight, alcohol-free, and hydrating product, like aloe vera gel or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients soothe your skin without clogging pores.

  • Humidity & Sweat: High humidity can make your skin feel sticky and sweaty after shaving, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Use oil-free products that hydrate without blocking your pores.


NHS guidance on summer skincare recommends avoiding aggressive exfoliation during heatwaves, as your skin’s natural barrier is more vulnerable.

Avoid heat and tight clothing

Air Conditioning Effects

While summer heat is a challenge, air conditioning can affect your skin too. The cool, dry air can dehydrate your skin, causing it to become rough or flaky, especially after shaving.

  • Hydrate Throughout the Day: Counteract the drying effects of air conditioning by drinking plenty of water and using a non-comedogenic moisturiser to prevent your skin from becoming tight or dry.

  • Use a Humidifier: If you're spending a lot of time in air-conditioned spaces, consider using a humidifier. This adds moisture back into the air, helping to keep your skin hydrated and reducing post-shave irritation.

UK-Specific Summer Challenges: Unpredictable Weather & Heatwaves

The UK’s unpredictable summer weather can throw an extra challenge into the mix. A sudden heatwave can make skin more sensitive than usual, and frequent temperature shifts between warm weather and air-conditioned spaces can leave skin dehydrated and irritated. During these moments, it's especially important to maintain a flexible shaving and skincare routine that adapts to the weather.

  • Heatwaves: UK heatwaves can unexpectedly intensify summer heat, leaving your skin more prone to sweat and irritation. Make sure to stay hydrated, avoid shaving during peak heat, and use cooling aftercare products like aloe vera.
  • Unpredictable Weather: Alternating between humid and dry conditions can confuse your skin. When it's more humid, focus on oil-free moisturisers and gentle exfoliation. On drier days, prioritise richer moisturisers and hydration to maintain skin health.

Holiday Hair Removal Without Overdoing It

Shaving daily for pool days or beach outfits can be tempting, but over-shaving can damage your skin barrier, leading to irritation, dryness, or even infection.

  • Use a Single-Blade Razor: A single-blade razor is gentler on your skin and reduces irritation compared to multi-blade razors. It’s a good option for smoother, irritation-free shaves.

  • Hair-Inhibiting Serums: Consider using a hair-inhibiting serum to stretch the time between shaves. These products help slow down hair regrowth, reducing the need to shave as often and minimizing the risk of over-shaving.

Post-Swim Skin Care

Shaving after a swim can leave your skin feeling dry, especially after exposure to chlorine or saltwater. These elements can strip your skin of natural oils, leaving it dehydrated and more sensitive.

  • Rinse Immediately: After swimming, rinse your skin with fresh water to remove chlorine or saltwater. This helps prevent further dryness.

  • Rehydrate with Hyaluronic Acid: After rinsing, apply a hyaluronic acid gel to lock in moisture and soothe your freshly shaved skin.

Quick Touch-Ups While Traveling

If you’re on-the-go and need a quick shave or exfoliation touch-up, packing the right products is key.

  • Lactic Acid Wipes: Keep lactic acid wipes in your bag for gentle exfoliation. These wipes help remove dead skin and prevent ingrown hairs without the need for a razor. No razor burn, no drama.

  • Portable Razor Care: If you're bringing a razor, pack it in a protective case to avoid damage. You can also carry travel-size shaving cream to reduce skin irritation while shaving on the move.

Smooth Skin for Long Holidays

For extended trips, consider switching up your routine. Continuous shaving can be harsh on your skin, especially if you’re away for a longer period.

  • Waxing or Epilating: Start your holiday with waxing or epilating to reduce the need for frequent shaving. This will help you enjoy smooth skin for longer stretches of time.

  • Exfoliate Every 3 Days: After your initial hair removal, exfoliate every 3 days to keep bumps and ingrown hairs at bay. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, promoting a smooth surface and ensuring no hair grows back under the skin.

With these easy fixes, summer shaving doesn’t have to be a hassle. Just follow the routine that works best for your skin type, take care of your skin through the heat and humidity, and you’ll enjoy smooth, stress-free skin all season long.

Pack Like a Pro: The Only Holiday Shaving Kit You'll Ever Need (UK Edition)

Planning your summer getaway? Whether you're soaking up the sun on a beach in Mykonos or enjoying a peaceful staycation at Kynance Cove in Cornwall, having a reliable holiday shaving routine is essential. With the right UK products and a travel-friendly plan, you’ll breeze through any shaving challenges and stay smooth from departure to return.

Before You Go: Pre-Holiday Prep

Start your leg care routine 1–2 days before departure to ensure smooth, bump-free skin when you arrive at your destination. This pre-holiday prep helps prevent ingrown hairs, irritation, and razor burn, setting you up for success.


Day 1: Exfoliate
Exfoliate your legs with The Body Shop Almond Milk Scrub (£8.00 for 200ml) or Boots Glycolic Acid Pads (£6.00 for 30 pads) to remove dead skin cells and clear the hair follicles. This step helps prevent ingrown hairs and creates a smooth surface for shaving.


Day 2: Shave
Shave the night before your trip using an Estrid Razor (£9.00 for the starter kit),  a popular UK option for smooth, irritation-free shaves. Shaving the night before gives your skin time to recover overnight. Follow up with CeraVe Moisturising Lotion (£12.00 for 340ml), fragrance-free and perfect for sensitive skin, to keep your skin hydrated.

Build Your UK-Friendly Travel Shaving Kit

Start your leg care routine 1–2 days before departure to ensure smooth, bump-free skin when you arrive at your destination. This pre-holiday prep helps prevent ingrown hairs, irritation, and razor burn, setting you up for success.


Day 1: Exfoliate
Exfoliate your legs with The Body Shop Almond Milk Scrub (£8.00 for 200ml) or Boots Glycolic Acid Pads (£6.00 for 30 pads) to remove dead skin cells and clear the hair follicles. This step helps prevent ingrown hairs and creates a smooth surface for shaving.


Day 2: Shave
Shave the night before your trip using an Estrid Razor (£9.00 for the starter kit),  a popular UK option for smooth, irritation-free shaves. Shaving the night before gives your skin time to recover overnight. Follow up with CeraVe Moisturising Lotion (£12.00 for 340ml), fragrance-free and perfect for sensitive skin, to keep your skin hydrated.

Build Your UK-Friendly Travel Shaving Kit

When packing for your holiday, choose products that are travel-sized and effective for quick and easy maintenance. Here are the essentials:

  • Ulike IPL Razor (£10.00) – Compact and efficient for easy shaving on the go.

  • Boots Glycolic Pads (£6.00) – Perfect for quick exfoliation pre-shave to prevent irritation.

  • CeraVe AM SPF Moisturiser (£14.00) – Provides hydration and sun protection during your travels.

  • Tend Skin Solution (£14.99) – A must-have for emergency fixes like bumps and ingrown hairs.

On-the-Go Quick Shaving Routine

Even when you’re on the move, it’s possible to keep your skin smooth with minimal effort. Here’s how:


Morning Routine:

  • Rinse your legs with cool water to refresh and reduce any morning puffiness.

  • Swipe an exfoliating pad (like Boots Glycolic Pads) to prep your skin for shaving.

  • Shave if needed, using your travel-sized razor for a quick touch-up.

After Swimming:

  • Rinse off chlorine or saltwater with fresh water to remove drying agents from your skin.

  • Apply The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum (£7.99 for 30ml) to rehydrate and lock in moisture.

Emergency Touch-Up? No Worries

Forgot to shave before heading to the beach or pool? No need to stress—here’s a simple solution:

  • Use a warm cloth to soften hair for a smoother shave.

  • Use your mini razor and Sanctuary Spa Body Oil (£9.00 for 200ml) as a makeshift shaving cream.

  • Soothe your skin with Holland & Barrett Aloe Vera Gel (£5.99 for 200ml) for immediate relief and hydration.

Packing Tips

  • Razor Protection: Use a hard case to protect your razor from damage during travel.

  • Multi-use Products: Save space in your luggage by packing products that serve multiple purposes, like moisturiser with SPF or a serum that can hydrate and protect your skin.

SOS: Emergency Fixes for Holiday Shaving Disasters (When You're 3,000 Miles from Home)

Sunshine, swimsuits... and suddenly, holiday razor burn or a nasty ingrown hair? Travel shaving problems always seem to pop up just when you're trying to relax. But don't worry. These quick fixes will have your skin sorted in no time, no matter how far from home you are.

Got Razor Burn While on Holiday?

Razor burn is one of the most common holiday shaving mishaps, but there’s a simple fix.

  • Cold Compress: Press a cold tea bag or milk-soaked cotton pad onto the affected area for about 5 minutes. This helps calm inflammation and cools the skin down.

  • Aloe Vera Gel: After the compress, follow up with fragrance-free aloe vera gel. It’s soothing and helps reduce redness.

  • Shave with the Grain: In hot, humid climates, always shave with the grain (in the direction of hair growth) to avoid making the irritation worse.

Dealing with Vacation Ingrown Hairs?

Ingrown hairs can be a real pain, especially when you’re on the go, but you can fix them with a bit of care.

  • Use Clean Tweezers: Clean your tweezers with hand sanitizer before gently lifting (don’t pluck!) the ingrown hair. This avoids pushing the hair further into the skin.

  • Tea Tree Oil: Apply diluted tea tree oil to the area. Its antibacterial properties help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.

  • Exfoliate Regularly: Prevent future ingrown hairs by exfoliating every few days with a soft konjac sponge . This helps keep pores clear and promotes smoother skin.

Over-Shaved Your Skin? Ouch.

If you’ve gone a bit overboard and your skin feels raw from shaving too often, here’s how to calm it down:

  • Greek Yogurt: Apply plain Greek yogurt to the irritated skin for about 10 minutes. The cooling effect will calm the irritation, and the probiotics will help your skin heal.

  • Seal with Moisture : After rinsing off the yogurt, seal in moisture with squalane oil. It’s gentle and hydrating.

  • Shave Less Often: Try to shave less frequently, every 48 hours max . Consider using tinted body lotion to give your skin a smooth look without the need for constant shaving.

Emergency Skin Fixes Abroad

Need a quick fix while overseas? Head to your local pharmacy and ask for hydrocortisone 1% or clindamycin gel. Both are commonly available and incredibly effective for calming irritation and preventing infection.


According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, summer skin consultation requests have increased by 25%, with many related to poor shaving practices during holidays. So, you're not alone!

FAQ Section: The Questions Everyone's Too Embarrassed to Ask (Answered by Experts)

Still have questions? Here are the answers to what readers ask us most:

How long should I wait between exfoliating and shaving if I have very sensitive skin?

If you have sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, it's best to wait 48-72 hours after exfoliating before shaving. Your skin needs extra recovery time, especially during the summer heat. Instead of using physical scrubs, consider using a gentle lactic acid toner 2–3 days before shaving. Always do a patch test first to check for reactions. During peak summer, try to limit exfoliation to once per week to avoid over-sensitising your skin.

Can I use fake tan products if I'm following an exfoliation and shaving routine?

Yes, but timing is key. Wait 24-48 hours after your final shave before applying fake tan. This allows your skin to fully settle and reduces the chance of streaks. Avoid exfoliating for 3-4 days after tanning to maintain an even colour. If you need to shave during this time, opt for an electric razor on the lowest setting to preserve your tan, and skip the pre-shave exfoliation to prevent patchiness.

I'm going on a 2-week holiday. Should I pack different exfoliating products for different climates?

Absolutely. For humid destinations like Thailand or the Caribbean, pack gentler chemical exfoliants like mandelic acid . They work well in heat and won’t irritate the skin. For dry climates like Spain or Greece, physical exfoliants like sugar scrubs are ideal. If you’re island-hopping or changing climates, mandelic acid wipes are a fantastic travel companion. They’re compact, effective, and can be used in any environment.

My teenager wants to start shaving – is the exfoliate-before rule the same for young skin?

Young skin is generally more resilient, but it’s also more sensitive to new products. Start with the gentlest approach: use a soft washcloth or konjac sponge before shaving, but only 2–3 times a week. Skip chemical exfoliants initially and focus on teaching them proper shaving technique for the first 2-3 months . Once their skin has adjusted, you can slowly introduce exfoliation as part of their routine.

I've heard you shouldn't shave every day. How does this affect the exfoliation schedule?

You’re right! Daily shaving can damage your skin barrier. Aim to shave no more than every 48-72 hours , especially in summer, to avoid irritation. This timing works perfectly with your exfoliation routine: exfoliate on Day 1 , shave on Day 2 , give your skin a break on Day 3 , and then repeat. If you absolutely must shave daily for a special event or holiday, consider using a gentle electric razor and limit exfoliation to 2-3 times a week to protect your skin.

Your 60-Second Cheat Sheet to Never Having Bad Shave Again

Let’s settle it once and for all: Should you exfoliate before or after shaving? The answer is clear— before every time. It's one of the easiest summer shaving tips to follow, and it makes a world of difference.


Exfoliating first clears away dead skin, allowing your razor to glide smoothly and reducing the risk of irritation, razor bumps, and ingrown hairs. It’s an essential part of your smooth skin routine, especially in hot, humid weather when your skin is more reactive.


After shaving, always follow up with a light, fragrance-free moisturiser and SPF —freshly shaved skin is more sensitive to sun exposure.


If you've ever dealt with holiday razor burn, you know prevention is everything. So, before your next trip, stick to this simple routine: exfoliate, shave with the grain, moisturise, and protect.


It only takes a few extra minutes, and your summer skin will thank you for it.

Ready to transform your summer shaving routine? Start with these tips tonight and see the difference by your next beach day.

Check out our blog for expert tips and advice on all things hair removal, your go-to guide for flawless skin all summer long!

Related Readings

Related Articles

Latest news

Learn everything you need to know about IPL treatment, its benefits, and processes. In 2025, cons...
Learn about essential safety considerations for laser treatments for rosacea and laser hair remov...
Complete laser hair treatment aftercare guide based on real experience. Avoid my mistakes for bet...
Everything about underarm laser hair removal for UK women. Costs, results, summer safety tips, an...

96% hair reduction in just 2 weeks¹
10-minute full-body sessions².

£0.00
Ulike Air 10
7% OFF
Ulike Air 10

96% hair reduction in just 2 weeks¹
10-minute full-body sessions².

£369.99 £399.99
Ulike Air 3
12% OFF
Ulike Air 3

96% hair reduction in just 2 weeks¹
10-minute full-body sessions².

£279.99 £319.99

Clear acne in 2 weeks¹.
Smooth wrinkles in 4 weeks⁴.

£0.00