Most men don’ t know it, but the art of shaving is really a game of preparation. Your shaving routine should really begin days before razor meets skin. We’ve highlighted several tips and techniques to ensue that your next shave is the best you’ve ever had.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Be sure to make moisturizing a part of your daily routine. Deeply moisturized skin forms a natural barrier between your skin and the razor, so when it comes time to shave, your face won’t be as susceptible to blade irritation. Trust us, your face will thank you for it.
What to try: Crème Ancienne Soft Cream
Scrub on days you don’t shave
Your skin is in a constant state of death and renewal, as new skin cells grow to replace the old ones. Unfortunately, if you don’t scrub your face, the dead cells can linger and get in the way of new hair growth, leading to ingrown hairs. Scrubbing your skin regularly helps remove the dead cells and cleanses your pores, ensuring that hair grows out of the skin rather than curl under it.
What to try: Urth Face Scrub
Shave After you shower
Shaving after or even during a hot shower can make the process all that much easier. Hot water makes your skin and hair softer and easier to work with, but also helps to open your pores. Plus, knocking out shaving and showering in one fell swoop makes your morning much more efficient.
Ditch the disposables, and get a high quality razor
Your father might have subsisted on a cheap razors that came 30 to a bag, but that doesn’t mean you have to. Break the cycle of beard-abuse and pick up a high-quality tool for the job. No matter what type of razor you choose to use, make sure it’s equipped with a sharp blade. Sharp blades ensure the maximum amount of hair is cut with each stroke, limiting the amount of times you have to go over the same area twice. Too many strokes on the same spot can lead to avoidable irritation.
What to try: Jack Black Double Edge Safety Razor
Technique is King
You’ve moisturized, you’v scrubbed, you’ve found yourself a quality razor, and your skin is soft and supple from a hot shower. All these precautions can go to waste if you don’t follow the right technique. First, gently massage your shaving cream into the skin for even coverage. Once shaving, make sure you always shave following the direction of your hair’s natural growth. Shaving against the grain can lead to ingrown hairs. Rinse off your blade after every pass to ensure each area of skin is getting a clean edge. Finally, properly rinse your skin with cool water to wash away any leftover muck and close your pores to prevent irritation.
Don’t Forget the aftershave
Finally, be sure to apply a good aftershave. Look for products equipped with moisturizers and other soothing agents that will help ease irritation and help repair your skin for its next bout with the razor.
What to try: The Art of Shaving Unscented After-Shave Balm
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