The perfect shave can be elusive. Nicks and cuts, razor-burned skin, stubble left here and there, ingrown hairs, razor bumps, Barber’s rash, coarse beard – all of these tend to be experienced by those of us that are less-than-informed when it comes to shaving facial hair. Many of us never really learned how to shave the right way, so if you are among the many that are still ‘guessing’ how to shave properly, consider the tips below for a more ideal shaving experience.
1. See to it that you keep your skin clean. A lot of guys shave as soon as they take a hot bath or shower, since the temperature of the water works to open up the pores. This also moisturizes the skin and allows for a wet, smooth shave. Razor burns can generally be avoided by shaving when the face is clean.
2. As much as possible, use shaving cream or a special type of oil or gel specifically made for shaving. If you are using an electric razor, it’s fine to pass on the shaving cream and do a dry shave but as much as possible, using cream, gel or oil for shaving hydrates the skin (remember to lather). This is ideal for a close, smooth shave, which avoids nicks and cuts. Using water alone can actually dry out the skin.
3. A close shave is not as possible with a lot of electric razors, unless they use innovative technology like Pulsonic technology, which serves to get more hairs through “10,000 micro vibrations”. A good shaver does make a difference, and a couple of shavers to consider for this are the Braun Series Pulsonic Shaver, as well as the Philips Norelco.
4. Non-electric razors’ blades get dull after several uses, and dull blades can prevent you from getting a close shave. The more blades there are the better; if the first blade misses the hair, the second or third or fourth blade will try to get that hair. Some razors have as much as 4 blades, like the Schick Quattro Titanium Razor. You will need to buy razor refill cartridges if the blades fail to get rid of facial hair after a few strokes. Replace the blade every 6 weeks. It’s not advisable to press the blade against your skin if the blades are blunt, as trying to do this can lead you to cut yourself, or they can cause ingrown hairs – hairs that grow beneath the skin.
5. For the best shave, the stroke direction that feels ‘rough’ as you run your fingers over the surface (against the grain) should by the direction to follow when you shave.
6. In the event that you cut your skin while shaving, wash the area as soon as possible. Otherwise, this can lead to acne or razor burns. Your purpose in doing this is to prevent infections.
7. Accessories like a shaving brush can help raise the hairs on your face, allowing for a closer shave.
8. Once you’re done shaving, use a shave balm or lotion to soothe and cool your skin, as well as keep it moisturized.
