What is a common contraindication for shaving?

A common contraindication for shaving is skin irritations or infections because these conditions can exacerbate irritation or lead to additional complications during the shaving process. Shaving over inflamed, broken, or infected skin can cause further irritation, increase the risk of spreading an infection, and result in discomfort or injury.

When skin is irritated or infected, the protective barrier is compromised, which can lead to bleeding and the introduction of bacteria into the surrounding areas. Therefore, it's important for barbers to assess the skin condition of their clients before proceeding with a shave.

While dry skin can also lead to issues during shaving, it is not as critical a contraindication as skin irritations or infections, which pose a direct risk to both the client's health and the barber's responsibilities. Oily skin and short hair do not generally present significant risks and do not contraindicate shaving in the way that infections do.