I have black hair, and no matter how well I shave, I always seem to have this shadow on my face that looks like I've drawn on my skin. I've tried better razors and creams, but it's still there. I'm wondering if this is common for people with black hair or if it could be related to my skin being thin from past steroid cream use. Anyone experience this?
6 Answers
Switching to a safety razor has worked wonders for me in terms of achieving a closer shave. It may take a bit to master, but using a safety razor coupled with quality blades can really minimize that shadow. Just remember to exfoliate beforehand to reduce irritation!
Safety razors have a learning curve, but once you nail it, your skin will thank you. Plus, the savings on blades can't be beaten!
Laser hair removal is a long-term solution for eliminating that shadow, but it can be pricey. I've had it done under my chin, and the results are incredible; it's super smooth! Just think about it depending on whether you want facial hair in the future.
Got it! If I ever consider it, I’ll look into the cost and number of sessions.
The shadow you see might be due to the hair being slightly beneath your skin. There's not much you can do about that with shaving, unfortunately. Some folks find that tan or light-diming their skin might help with the contrast. Just a heads-up, it might be seen as masculine, but I guess it can be annoying for some.
Yeah, I noticed the same thing with my dark hair. Sometimes, it feels like you just have to accept that shadow no matter what.
I get that too! It's frustrating when you see others with no shadow, but I guess genetics play a big role.
To tackle the shadow issue, start by mapping out the grain of your beard. Let your hair grow out for a couple of days, then run your hands over your face to feel which way it grows. When you shave, go with the grain first to minimize irritation, and use a straight or safety razor for a closer shave. Warm water or a hot shower beforehand helps too! After your first pass with the grain, reapply soap and shave across it for a second pass. Just be careful with going against the grain; it's riskier for irritation, especially on your neck!
Are you using the right technique? I recommend shaving down first, then coming back up against the grain. It's a bit of a mix, but it works for many! Also, consider using a face scrub beforehand for exfoliation. It really helps.
Totally agree! I watched some tutorials on r/wicked_edge before I made the switch, and it was the best decision I ever made. Such a cleaner shave!