Common Shaving Myths Debunked!

Myth 1: Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker and Faster

This is probably the most common shaving myth of all and it’s completely false.

Before shaving, hair has a tapered end that feels soft to the touch. Shaving cuts hair at the surface of the skin, leaving behind a blunt tip. As the hair grows back, that blunt edge can feel coarser or appear darker for a short time, but the hair itself is not actually thicker or denser.

Hair thickness, colour, and growth rate are determined by genetics and hormones, not by shaving.

The truth: Shaving does not change the structure of your hair follicles.

Myth 2: You Should Shave Every Day for Smooth Skin

Daily shaving isn’t necessary for everyone. In fact, shaving too often can irritate sensitive skin and increase the risk of razor burn, redness, and ingrown hairs.

Your ideal shaving schedule depends on:

Hair growth rate
Skin sensitivity
Personal preference
The area being shaved

Some women shave daily, while others only shave once or twice a week.

The truth: Smooth skin doesn’t require a daily shave.

Myth 3: Only Shaving Causes Ingrown Hairs

Whether you’re waxing, shaving, or using depilatory cream to remove hair, ingrown hairs are less to do with the method and more to do with skin prep. Ingrown hairs occur when a hair gets caught and curls under the skin rather than growing through the skin, forming a painful, red bump. To help protect your skin from razor bumps while shaving, exfoliate first to remove dead skin and always use a fresh, sharp razor. Shaving with the growth direction may help reduce ingrown hairs.

The truth: Good preparation and technique can help reduce ingrown hairs, no matter how you're removing hair.

Myth 4: It’s OK to Share Razors

Even if it seems harmless, sharing razors is never recommended. Razors can carry bacteria, fungi, and even tiny traces of blood that may spread infections, so treat it like a toothbrush and make sure everyone is using their own!

The truth: Sharing razors might sound like a good idea, but the risk outweighs the benefits!

Myth 5: Shaving Prep Is Just an Extra Step

Some people think shaving gel or cream is optional, but it plays an important role in protecting the skin.

Products like our Schick Silk Sensitive or Moisturising Shave Gel:

Soften the hair
Help reduce friction
Help prevent cuts
Improve razor glide
Keep skin moisturised

Using body soap (or hair conditioner?!) may dry out the skin and increase irritation as they aren’t designed for shaving.

The truth: Shaving gel helps create a safer, smoother and more comfortable shave.

Myth 6: You Must Shave Year Round

Every woman’s body, skin, and grooming routine are different. Some women enjoy shaving regularly because it makes them feel comfortable or confident. Others prefer shaving less often — especially during winter. The truth is, there’s no one rule. In winter, skin can become sensitive and not tolerate regular shaving so some women choose to skip it.

When deciding to shave, think about:

What you’re wearing
What you will be doing
How your skin is feeling
Do you actually want to shave?

The truth: Shave, don’t shave – your body = your rules!

Myth 7: Using the Same Old Razor Blade is Fine, There’s No Need to Change to a Fresh Blade

An old, dull razor blade can cause more nicks, cuts and skin irritation than a fresh, sharp blade. Dull blades pull at your body hair when moving across your skin, which can result in more irritation post-shave. Sharp razors glide more smoothly and cut hair closer to the skin, minimising irritation. Using a sharp razor also leads to a quicker shave, whereas a dull razor might require a few passes over the same area to effectively cut the hairs at the surface, increasing the chances of irritating your skin.

The truth: Replacing your razor heads often results in a smoother, safer and closer shave.

Myth 8: Razors With Less Blades are Safer

Many people believe that razors with fewer blades are automatically safer and gentler on the skin. While that may sound logical, the truth is more nuanced. The number of blades alone doesn’t determine whether a razor is “safe” — technique, skin type, blade quality, and shaving habits matter much more.

Modern multi-blade razors are specifically designed to:

Reduce pressure needed while shaving
Distribute contact more evenly
Cut hair more efficiently
Minimise repeated passes over the skin

The safest shave is one done with proper technique, a clean razor and light pressure, not less blades.

The truth: Less blades does not equal a safer shave. Good technique and a fresh blade matter more!

Myth 9: Dry Shaving Is Fine If You’re in a Hurry

Dry shaving over the sink may save time, but it can be rough on your skin. Without water or shaving cream, there’s less lubrication between the razor and your skin, increasing friction and irritation – OUCH! Your legs probably won’t feel very smooth afterwards either, as the blade hasn’t distributed pressure evenly on your skin, leading to a patchy shave.

Dry shaving can lead to: