“The hair on my legs just started growing back, and I’m scared to shave,” one MyPsoriasisTeam member shared. “I have scars everywhere and thick patches.”

If it’s been a while since you’ve shaved, it’s normal to be nervous. You may worry about how your skin will react to shaving and whether you’ll trigger psoriasis flare-ups.

Fortunately, it’s possible to remove hair without aggravating psoriasis when you take precautions. Here are some safety tips for shaving with psoriasis, along with other hair removal methods to consider.

Does Shaving Cause Psoriasis Flares?

Fears of psoriasis flares after shaving are warranted. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, you may notice new psoriasis patches between 10 and 14 days after you cut yourself while shaving.

This is because of the Koebner phenomenon, which is the appearance of new lesions in response to skin trauma like tattooing, infections, or razor cuts. Scientists estimate that up to 30 percent of people with psoriasis develop new lesions on previously unaffected skin after an injury. Because psoriasis plaques are raised and full of small blood vessels, it’s easy to cause bleeding and tiny injuries when shaving over them.

How Can You Shave Safely?

An electric razor might be the best investment, as electric razors are less likely to cut you. If you prefer a traditional razor, dermatologists suggest you put on a moisturizer and then a shaving cream or gel made for sensitive skin before starting to shave. This will reduce the likelihood of small nicks and cuts from the razor.

The National Psoriasis Foundation gives its Seal of Recognition to products that are safe to use on psoriatic skin. Currently, just one shaving cream has the Seal of Recognition: Perricone MD Hypoallergenic CBD Sensitive Skin Therapy Ultra-Smooth Clean Shave Cream. It’s dermatologist-tested and fragrance free.

Dermatologists also recommend shaving in the direction your hair grows to reduce irritated skin and ingrown hairs. Shaving slowly and carefully can save your skin from rough scraping or accidental cuts.

Replacing and cleaning your razors regularly can also ensure a smoother shave. Toss disposable razors after five to seven shaves, and clean electric razors just as often.

Keeping skin moisturized throughout the day can reduce plaque thickness and flaking, making shaving easier. Learn more about how to choose moisturizers for psoriasis.

Consider Taking a Break From Shaving

You can also choose not to shave. If your psoriasis is actively flaring, putting down the razor might be your best bet. One MyPsoriasisTeam member said, “My mother gave up shaving her legs when her psoriasis was very bad. She would wear pants or dark stockings.”

When it comes to beards and facial hair, a barber or stylist can help you come up with a new look that doesn’t require as much shaving.

Other Hair Removal Techniques

Shaving isn’t the only way to remove unwanted hair. There are lots of hair removal methods you can try. Some are safer for psoriasis than others, and it’s always best to avoid hair removal during a flare. Here are some of the pros and cons of other hair removal options.

Depilatories

A depilatory is a cream, lotion, or gel that helps dissolve hair from the skin’s surface. These products work quickly, and the results may last longer than shaving. You can buy depilatory creams over the counter, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re safe for people with psoriasis. In addition, the odor can be off-putting, and some people find that depilatory creams aggravate their skin.

One MyPsoriasisTeam member warned against depilatories: “Don’t ever try hair removal cream because it burns. I found the best thing for me was a men’s dry shaver. It didn’t cut my skin. I didn’t have a perfect shave, but it got rid of 90 percent of the hair without hurting me.”

You might want to ask your dermatologist before purchasing a depilatory to make sure it won’t interfere with your psoriasis treatment plan. Before trying depilatories for the first time (or on a new part of the body), you should conduct a spot test. Apply a small amount to your skin as directed, and rinse it off immediately if it starts to sting. Wait 24 hours to check for skin reactions to see if you should avoid the product.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis sends electrical currents through the hair follicle to permanently remove hair. Once you undergo a few cycles, you won’t need to worry about unwanted hair again. It’s critical to find a board-certified dermatologist or electrologist to do the procedure to ensure your safety and avoid scarring, burns, or infection.

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is similar to electrolysis. After about six treatments, the hair follicle is destroyed, and the hair won’t grow back. Laser hair removal will help you avoid razor burn and ingrown hairs associated with shaving. It doesn’t work as well on light-colored hair, as it targets dark, coarse hair. It’s important to avoid the sun until your skin heals from the procedure to avoid discoloration. Avoid at-home laser hair removal devices to reduce your risk of accidental harm, and be sure the appropriate laser is being used for your skin color.

Prescription Creams

Prescription creams containing the active ingredient eflornithine hydrochloride reduce hair growth. You’ll need a doctor’s approval to access these products, so discuss your psoriasis and any concerns about unwanted hair with your health care provider. They can help you decide if prescription creams are a good option for you. As with depilatories, it’s always a good idea to try a spot test before applying creams to a large area, so you can see how your skin responds.

Threading

Threading involves plucking out hairs. But unlike tweezing, threading removes multiple hairs at once. It’s less irritating than some other hair removal methods, but it’s not suitable for large areas. Threading is best for spots like your eyebrows where precise hair removal is desired.

Waxing

An advantage of waxing is that hair stays gone for longer than shaving. However, waxing might be too intense for sensitive skin. If you choose to wax, request cooler wax rather than hot wax. Avoid double-dipping. If you’re not waxing at home, let a waxing professional know about your psoriasis before you start.

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What MyPsoriasisTeam Members Are Saying

Being unable to shave can cause embarrassment and contribute to the stress of living with psoriasis. One member shared: “I planned to work out with a co-worker and forgot my workout pants but had shorts. I’ve not been able to shave in three months. I just started this job. Let’s just say I wasn’t very excited to come out of the locker room.”

Others commented that they hadn’t shaved in years. Those who do shave shared their tips, including “shaving slowly and very carefully,” using tar soap, and applying A+D brand ointments after shaving to moisturize the skin.

Another member noted, “I really need a solution. I have psoriasis on my legs, bikini area, and underarms. I would like a safe way to remove the hair. I waxed on Tuesday and literally ripped off all the skin. It bled like crazy. I have tried shaving, and that also made me bleed. Any suggestions?”

Others responded by saying:

• “You could also try electrolysis, but that may be expensive unless you have insurance that covers that. Be careful!”
• “I use an electric shaver when my legs are bad. I made the mistake once of trying to use Nair (a depilatory) around skin patches, and it burned. I spent a decent amount of money on a good electric shaver. It has made all the difference in the world!”

Hearing from others who relate to your situation makes it easier to deal with the unexpected issues psoriasis can bring. From shaving to trying new medications to living your best life while managing flare-ups, there’s a lot to learn from others who get it.

Always connect with a board-certified dermatologist for tailored advice on the best hair removal techniques based on your individual skin condition.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyPsoriasisTeam is the social network for people with psoriasis and their loved ones. On MyPsoriasisTeam, more than 116,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with psoriasis.

Do you have any skin care tips for shaving with plaque psoriasis? How do you prevent nicks? Which hair removal methods have worked for you? Post your suggestions in the comments below, or start a conversation on MyPsoriasisTeam.