Wet Shaving vs. Dry Shaving with an Electric Razor

Medical Disclaimer: Freebird provides general information, not medical advice. For any health or medical advice, consult a licensed healthcare professional

The first time I dry-shaved with an electric shaver, I got a razor burn on my neck that burned like crazy. My mistake. That experience sent me down a rabbit hole of testing both wet and "hybrid" dry shaving, to know which one worked for me.

Here's what I learned: the "better" method depends on your skin type, schedule, and what you're willing to deal with.

Read along as I share which method suits different body parts, common mistakes to avoid. and why we don't recommend dry shaving with straight razors, cartridge razors, and safety razors (just imagining it makes me cringe!), so we'll focus on electric shavers.

Should I Shave Wet or Dry with an Electric Razor?

Choosing the perfect shave comes down to wet and dry shaving. Think about your skin sensitivity, time constraints, shave closeness, and ease of cleanup.

Wet shaving gives a closer, more comfortable shave, but takes more time. Dry shaving is quick, less messy. Great for busy mornings, but it can irritate sensitive skin.

Both shaving methods have their perks and downsides. The only way to know which one suits you is to try both and see what feels right. But we're warning you now: if you have sensitive skin, take it from my burned neck: avoid dry shaving.

What is Wet Shaving?

Wet shaving means shaving with warm water, shaving cream, or gel.

Pros of Wet Shaving

• A Closer Shave: Warm water and lather soften hairs, making it easier for your electric razor to cut through. You'll get a closer shave than going dry.

• Less Irritation: Shaving cream or gel lowers friction. Huge if you've got sensitive skin.

• More Comfortable: Warm water opens your pores and softens skin, so shaving feels better.

Cons of Wet Shaving

• Time-Consuming: Wet shaving needs more prep work You've got to warm your skin with water, slap on cream or gel, and rinse everything aftwerward.

• Messier: Wet shaving can get messy. A combo of shaving cream and hair clippings is no joke. It'll clog your blades and drains if you're not careful.

Who Should Wet Shave?

• Those Who Are Not in a Hurry: Wet shaving is your move if you don't mind the prep and slightly longer routine.

• Individuals Who Prefer a Closer Shave: For a baby-smooth finish, wet shaving beats dry shaving every time.

• Those with Sensitive Skin: If you're prone to redness, razor burn, ingrown hairs, and irritation, wet shaving can be a game changer

What is Dry Shaving?

Dry shaving means you shave with an electric razor without water, cream, or gel.

Pros of Dry Shaving

• Super Convenient: Grab your electric shaver and shave away! No need to warm water, apply shaving cream, or anything else. I finish dry shaving my head in 3 minutes!

• Saves Money: You'll save money in the long run without buying shaving cream or gel.

• Less Mess: Dry shaving gets rid of the mess factor. No clogged sinks and cleaning up shaving cream after a shave.

Cons of Dry Shaving

• Not as Close Shave: Dry shaving might leave a bit of stubble compared to a wet shave.

• Can Irritate Your Skin: Dry shaving can be harsher on your skin, especially if you're prone to skin irritation, razor burn, and razor bumps.

Who Should Dry Shave?

• Those Who Value Convenience: If shaving time matters, dry shaving is built for speed and convenience. No prep, water, and mess. Just grab your razor and go.

• Shavers on a Budget: Without spending on shaving cream or gel or clogged drains, dry shaving can be more cost-effective in the long run.

• Those Who Prefer a Little Stubble: A dry shave isn't as close as a wet one. If you're cool with some stubble, dry shaving is your best bet.

Pro-Tip: I discovered a hybrid approach that works for me. They call it a "Pre-Shave Oil Hack". I rub a tiny amount of pre-shave oil on my skin before dry shaving. It's not wet shaving but it lubricates without the mess. Stay clear of thick oils (coconut, castor, and olive oils), they can clog your rotary blades.

Dry Shaving vs. Wet Shaving: By Body Part

There's a difference between the skin on your face, head, legs, and pubic area. These differences matter when you're deciding to dry or wet shave.

Scalp skin is thick and has more hair growth. Face skin is thinner, and hair has finer and varying densities.

Leg skin is generally thicker, and hair is usually coarse. The skin in your pubic area is thin and delicate, and hair often grows in a curly pattern.

Let's figure out how you choose between wet or dry shaving by body part.

Is it Better to Shave Your Face Wet or Dry?

Wet shaving is better since facial skin is thinner, and hair may grow in various directions. To avoid irritation, you must shave with the grain and map out your hair growth. 

Is it Better to Shave Your Head Wet or Dry?

While scalp skin is thicker than most, it's also one of the most sensitive.

Dry shaving is more practical for head shavers as long as your scalp doesn't get irritated. If you prefer a smooth shave with fewer chances of irritation, a wet shaving routine is the better pick. Learn more about shaving the right way here.

Is it Better to Shave Pubic Hair Wet or Dry?

Wet shaving is the best move for shaving your pubic area since curly hairs are more prone to razor bumps, and the skin down there is more sensitive. You've got to think about comfort and avoiding irritation in this delicate area.

Is it Better to Shave Your Legs Wet or Dry?

For most people, wet shaving beats dry shaving for legs since leg hairs are coarser and more prone to ingrown hairs. Wet shaving shaves closer, which cuts down irritation.

The Bottom Line

Wet or dry?

At the end of the day, the best way to know which shaving method works for you is to try both and decide.

Whatever method is more comfortable, provides results, and fits your routine will win.

But wait, who said you can't do both and enjoy both worlds?

If you don't get irritated after trying both methods, you can pick one that fits your needs, depending on your situation. Busy? Dry shave. Lazy weekend? Wet shave. 

Whatever you choose, Freebird's FlexSeries Pro is a great tool and one of the best-selling electric shavers on the market. It's also designed for those with sensitive skin and works great for both wet and dry shaving.

Get one now for only $.

FAQs

Can You Switch from Wet to Dry and Vice Versa?

Yes, but your skin needs time to adjust. Wet shaving removes a tiny layer of dead skin (exfoliation), while dry shaving doesn't. When you switch, your skin needs to recalibrate its oil production and sensitivity levels.

Give it 10-14 days before deciding if a method works for you. Those first few shaves might feel rough, but stick with it.

Do You Need Shaving Cream with an Electric Razor?

No. Most modern electric razors work on dry skin without any shaving products. That said, using shaving cream or gel with a waterproof electric razor can give you a closer, more comfortable shave if you've got sensitive skin or want that extra smoothness.

Can You Use an Electric Razor in the Shower?

Yes, if it's waterproof (look for an IPX7 rating). Shavers like the FlexSeries Pro are built for wet shaving in the shower. Just make sure your specific model is waterproof before taking it in there, or you'll fry the motor.

Does Dry Shaving Cause Razor Bumps?

It can, especially if you have sensitive skin or coarse, curly hair. Without shaving cream or gel, there's more friction and tugging, which can irritate hair follicles and lead to bumps. If you're prone to razor bumps, stick with wet shaving or use a quality electric shaver designed for sensitive skin.

Does Dry Shaving Dull Razors?

Not really. Electric shaver blades are built to handle both dry and wet shaving and will last 12-18 months regardless of your method. What dulls blades faster is not cleaning your shaver after each use since trapped hair and oils can wear down the cutting edges.

Does Dry Shaving Cause Ingrown Hairs?

More than wet shaving, yes, especially if you have curly or coarse hair. The lack of lubrication means more pulling and tugging, which can cause hairs to curl back into the skin after being cut. Wet shaving with proper prep softens hair and reduces this risk.

Is it OK to Wet Shave Every Day?

If your skin can tolerate it, wet shaving daily is okay. Once you experience skin irritation, try every other day or longer shaving intervals.

Is it OK to Dry Shave Every Day?

Dry shaving daily also depends on how your skin will react. If you have tough skin that can tolerate daily dry shaving, then that's okay.

Is it OK to Shave with Just Water?

As long as your shaver is designed for wet and dry shaving, shaving with just water would be fine. It wouldn't give the same results as adding shaving cream though.

Is Hot or Cold Water Better for Shaving?

Hot water helps open pores, making your hair and skin softer as you prep for a shave. So, when you're wet shaving, prep with warm water.

Cold water helps tighten pores so it's ideal to finish your shave by rinsing with cold water.

What to do After Dry Shaving with an Electric Razor?

Clean your shaver, wash your skin with cool water, pat your skin dry and apply a moisturizer or an aftershave balm to keep your skin hydrated and smooth.