Although it is used quite often, the cleanliness of the razor often goes unnoticed. In fact, if cleanliness is not maintained, razors can cause various health problems, such as irritation and bacterial or fungal infections.
Some people may feel uncomfortable or lack confidence in the presence of hair or hair in certain body parts, such as the armpits, face, legs, or pubic area.
Well, one method that is often used to remove hair is shaving. Shaving hair is considered more convenient and practical, it can even be done at home.
Health Problems Due to Improper Shaving
Even though it's easy to do, shaving your hair is at risk of causing health problems, especially if the razors used are not kept clean.
The following are some of the health problems caused by using an unclean and improper shaver:
- Irritant contact dermatitis
- skin irritation
- Scratches
- Acne due to bacterial infection
- Folliculitis
- Ingrown hair
In addition, several kinds of diseases, such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B, can also be transmitted through hair clippers that have been contaminated with blood and are used interchangeably with people with these diseases.
How to Take Care of the Hair Shaver
Hair shavers are divided into two types, namely electric and manual shavers. Both have advantages and disadvantages of each.
Electric hair clippers are considered more practical, fast, and easy to use. However, this type of shaver often does not remove hair as well as a manual one.
On the other hand, even if you need a cream or gel, a manual shaver is able to remove hair more cleanly and neatly and has less risk of causing skin sores.
To stay safe, here are some tips for caring for and maintaining a clean shaver that you can do:
1. Clean the shaver properly
Clean the shaver immediately after use. For manual razors, remove excess hair and cream stuck between the razors by rinsing with running water.
After rinsing, the shaver should also be dried. However, do not dry it with a towel, because it can make the blades become dull easily. Allow the shaver to dry on its own before storing it.
Meanwhile, to clean the electric shaver, follow the instructions given by the product brand properly, because each brand may have different ways of using and caring for it.
2. Store the shaver in a dry and clean place
Do not put the razor carelessly, especially in a damp place like the bathroom. This is because the razor will easily dull, rust, and become contaminated with fungi and bacteria when placed in a damp place.
Therefore, it is recommended that you store the shaver in a dry place and away from the reach of water so that it lasts a long time and is kept clean.
3. Do not use hair clippers interchangeably
Hair razors are one of the objects that are prone to contamination with bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Using it interchangeably with other people is tantamount to sharing germs that cause health problems attached to the shaver.
4. Change the blade or razor regularly
Don't forget to replace any blades or razors that have started to dull or have been used at least 5–7 times. This is important because blunt razors are more likely to cause skin irritation and infection.
Even though it seems easy, negligence in using and maintaining a hair clipper can cause health problems that cannot be taken lightly. Therefore, always keep the hair shaver as clean as possible.
If signs of irritation or infection appear after using the razor, such as itching, burning, redness, and blisters, immediately consult a doctor for proper treatment.
