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I always feel like summer is the harshest on my skin so I really push myself to find the right products that collaborate well with the extreme heat and pollution NYC dishes out during the season. When
Dove contacted me about their line of shaving regimen that is groomed exclusively for men I knew I had to try it out. Even for someone as myself who doesn't shave as often as most, I know that the times I do shave, I have to make it count. We spend so much money on razors and ignore the fact that the entire regimen of shaving is important from beginning to end.
Dove Men+Care's Expert Shave regimen takes men through every important step of the grooming process - which really just makes taking care of our skin that much easier. It's a no brainer!
I also had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Jeff Benabio, the San Diego based dermatologist who collaborated with
Dove Men+Care to help develop the new product line, who helped answer some of my [and maybe some of your] grooming questions when it comes to the
Expert Shave and just how to use the entire range
:
TS: What are some key elements that makes this product regimen different than others?
Dr. Benabio: The Expert Shave range is clinically proven to better moisturize and hydrate skin for the ultimate caring shave. This range was created to focus specifically on the act of shaving and the common skin care concerns that come with it, including irritation, dryness and roughness. It features products that deliver superior levels of moisturization to prepare, shave and repair the skin, before, during and following shaving.
TS: Which is your favorite part of the regimen
Dr. Benabio: I love the Total Comfort Shave Cream, which is designed for drier and irritation-prone skin types, like mine, that require enhanced protection and moisturization. It also comes in a tub, which I like, and sometimes I use a brush to apply it. The shave cream preps my skin for a smooth, clean shave and contains increased levels of glycerin to help protect dry and sensitive skin types from irritation.
TS: What are the proper techniques when shaving? Post shower vs. pre shower. With the grain vs. against the grain. Electric trimmer vs. razor.
Dr. Benabio: The proper shave involves a three step approach. The first step is the “pre-shave” because preparation is an important step most guys don’t think about. The Dove Men+Care Expert Shave “pre-shave” products cleanse and soften men’s skin and stubble to prepare for a smooth shave. First, apply the Exfoliating Pre-Shave Scrub as it cleans and scrubs skin for a closer shave, and lifts hairs to help reduce ingrown hairs. Next, apply the Softening Pre-Shave Oil, specially formulated to soften hair and moisturize your skin to help protect skin while shaving. The second step is “the shave” and using the right shaving products can make all the difference. The Dove Men+Care Expert Shave line includes two shave creams that contain high levels of moisturizing ingredients to help protect skin during shaving, the Smoothing Shave Cream and the Total Comfort Shave Cream. The Smoothing Shave Cream’s creamy lather helps protect against irritation and leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated. The Total Comfort Shave Cream is the richest, most protective Dove Men+Care shave formula designed especially for drier skin. It softens hair on contact and provides smooth razor glide. The third and final step is the “post-shave” because even the best shave can be tough on your face. The Dove Men+Care Expert Shave Intense Post-Shave Balm helps rehydrate and soothe skin quickly to help relieve shaving irritation and is clinically proven to help skin repair after shaving.
For the best results, I advise my patients to shave post-shower. The moisture and steam from the shower will help soften your hair for a smoother and closer shave. Additionally, it is best to shave with the grain versus against the grain. While most men like to shave against the grain for a closer shave, this can trap the hairs under the skin and cause ingrown hairs.
TS: How can men combat ingrown facial hair?
Dr. Benabio: In my experience, there are two sure-fire ways to avoid ingrown hairs. First, you must exfoliate, and that’s why I recommend the Exfoliating Pre-Shave Scrub. It not only cleans, scrubs and smoothes skin for a closer shave, but it also lifts hairs and helps reduce ingrown hairs. Guys should know never to shave against the grain because that’s the easiest way to get ingrown hairs.
TS: Does climate affect shaving routines?
Dr. Benabio: No, climate does not affect your shaving routine, as long as you stick to the three step regimen, which will ensure you get the ultimate shave.
TS: What's the biggest mistake you see men make when it comes to skincare?
Dr. Benabio: Two of the biggest mistakes men make when it comes to skincare are shaving against the grain and not using shave cream. When you shave against the grain, you increase the probability of trapping the hairs, which can cause ingrown hairs. Guys sometimes use bar soap (or worse - nothing at all) instead of a proper shave cream, and it is really important for guys to use products that create a safe barrier between your blade and your face - you never want a blade dragging across your dry face, that’s asking for trouble.
Additionally, men should always moisturize. You always hear women talk about it in their daily beauty routines, but it should absolutely be a part of every man’s routine. The benefits to moisturizing you skin are endless – it will look healthy and smooth.
