Wet shaving is a daily ritual for many men (and women too) that requires precision and care. However, even the most experienced wet shavers are not spared minor cuts. In such situations, many reflexively reach for toilet paper to stop the bleeding. But is this really the best method?
Why do cuts occur during wet shaving?
Cuts are often caused by shaving carelessly or too quickly, blunt blades or insufficient preparation of the skin. The risk of minor injuries is particularly high with wet shaving, which is known for its particularly close shave. A tiny mistake can lead to a shaving wound that is small but still unpleasant.
Another risk is the use of unsuitable shaving products, which irritate the skin and make it more susceptible to cuts. Sensitive skin or razor burn can also increase the likelihood of the blade leaving small wounds.
Toilet paper as a first aid measure: effective or risky?
Many people reach for toilet paper to quickly stop a bleeding cut after shaving. This is obvious, as toilet paper is available in almost every bathroom. But how effective and safe is this method really?
Advantages of toilet paper for shaving injuries
- Immediate availability: Toilet paper is immediately to hand and can be quickly pressed onto the wound to stop the bleeding.
- Easy to use: A small piece of toilet paper can easily be stuck to the affected area to stop the flow of blood.
Disadvantages and risks of using toilet paper
Despite these advantages, there are also some disadvantages and risks that should not be ignored:
- Risk of infection: Toilet paper is not sterile. If it is applied to an open wound, there is a risk. Dirt or bacteria can get into the wound. This can cause an infection.
- Sticking to the wound: Many people are familiar with the problem: toilet paper sticks to the wound and is difficult or painful to remove. This can delay healing and further irritate the skin.
- No long-term protection: Toilet paper offers no protection against further irritation of the wound and has no disinfectant or healing properties.
Better alternatives to toilet paper
Toilet paper has a number of disadvantages. This raises the question of whether there are better alternatives. These could be used to treat shaving injuries. In fact, there are a number of products and home remedies that are not only safer, but can also be more effective.
1. Shaving styptic (styptic pencil)
A styptic pencil, also known as a styptic pencil, is an excellent alternative to toilet paper. The styptic pencil contains potassium alum, which has an astringent effect, meaning it constricts the blood vessels and therefore stops the bleeding quickly. It is also antiseptic and helps to prevent infections.
Advantages of the styptic pencil:
- Stops bleeding quickly and effectively.
- Reduces the risk of infection through antiseptic properties.
- Leaves no residue that sticks to the wound.
2. Antibacterial plaster
For larger or deeper cuts, it may be useful to use a small antibacterial plaster. These plasters not only protect the wound from dirt and bacteria, but also promote faster healing.
Advantages of antibacterial plasters:
- Offer long-term protection against external influences.
- Often contain active ingredients that prevent infections.
- Support the healing of the wound.
3. Hemostatic gel
Blood-stopping gels, which have been specially developed for minor injuries such as shaving wounds, can also be a good alternative to toilet paper. These gels contain ingredients that promote blood clotting and disinfect the wound at the same time.
Advantages of hemostatic gels:
- Stop the bleeding quickly.
- Provide additional protection against infection.
- Easy to use and leave no residue.
Tips for avoiding shaving injuries
Although there are numerous ways to treat shaving injuries, it is always better to avoid them in the first place. Here are some tips on how you can minimize cuts when wet shaving:
1. Use sharp blades
Blunt razor blades are one of the main causes of cuts. Make sure to change your blade regularly to ensure a clean and precise shave. A sharp blade glides more smoothly over the skin and reduces the risk of injury.
2. Prepare the skin thoroughly
Preparing the skin thoroughly is crucial. Use warm water before shaving to open the pores and soften the skin. Shaving oil or gel can also help. It protects the skin and allows the blade to glide smoothly over the skin.
3. Shave in the direction of growth
Always shave in the direction of hair growth to protect the skin and minimize the risk of cuts. Shaving against the direction of growth can make for a smoother shave, but increases the risk of injury.
4. Avoid pressure on the blade
Do not press the razor blade too hard against the skin. Light pressure is enough to remove the hair. Too much pressure increases the risk of the blade cutting the skin.
Is toilet paper a good idea?
Toilet paper seems to be a quick and easy solution for treating cuts from wet shaving. However, it is not the best choice. It carries a certain risk of infection, can stick to the wound and does not offer long-term protection. Instead, specially developed products such as styptic pencils, antibacterial plasters and hemostatic gels are much more effective and safer.
Proper treatment of shaving injuries is important to prevent infection and promote healing. Whether you use toilet paper, a styptic pencil or a gel. Always make sure that the wound remains clean. Treat it with antiseptic products if necessary. This will prevent long-term skin irritation.
