Doesn't all shaving take off layers though? I think as long as you use moisturize afterwards it shouldn't be too damaging.
A good shaving cream is essential. Don't go for the drug store brand ones, they contain a chemical called benzocane, which blocks your nerve endings from feeling the pain when you cut yourself. This may seem like it's good, but if you use it a lot it damages your skin.
I have the Zirh shaving gel and it does not contain any of this chemical.