How To Shave
It's something most men do every day. Sometimes twice a day. But did you ever think you’re doing it wrong? Here we break down how you really should be shaving.
1. Start with a cleanser and warm water
Before you can do anything to your face, you need to wash it. This rids the skin and hair of excess oil and gunk—all stuff that might get trapped in your razor or irritate the face. Do it with warm water which relaxes the skin and opens the pores, making it more receptive to a razor blade and less prone to ingrown hairs or razor bumps. The other alternative? Take a shower. Not only do you waste less time, but you also reap the benefits of steam which opens the pores and softens the hairs. After showering, make sure to still wash your face with warm water with a quality face wash to gently remove dirt, oil, and other pollutants from your skin.
*Adding a bi or tri-weekly exfoliating cleanser to your routine can also be useful since it can help remove the dead skin cells that can clog up your razor and prevent you from getting as close a shave as possible.
2. Use a pre-shave oil to prep the skin and facial hair
A pre-shave oil conditions the skin and softens the hair, making them both more receptive to a razor blade; the oil also creates a nutrient-dense layer over top the skin, so the blade glides smoothly with far less resistance (which also means less irritation). This is definitely your secret weapon against razor burn and uncomfortable rashes.
3. Apply shave cream in upward motion
When you apply your shave cream, do so in an upward motion to lift the hairs up and away from the face, resulting in a smoother, more precise shave. For a totally smooth finish, you’re generally going to want to shave daily but if you’re okay with a bit of scruff, you can get a way with shaving less frequently. Whatever your routine, the best way to shave is in the direction of hair growth. The best practice is to rinse your razor after each pass to remove hair, shaving cream, and other buildup that can clog the blade and to replace your blade after every five to seven uses. It's perfectly normal to cut yourself in the process, and if you do, an alum pen (aluminum sulfate) will mitigate the bleeding by tightening the pores. After shaving, store your razor in a clean, dry place to prevent the growth of potentially-harmful bacteria.
4. Follow up with an after shave balm and moisturizer
After shaving, you’ll need to rinse your face with cold water which helps close the pores and capillaries (perfect for if you cut yourself) and then pat yourself dry. Finish off with an after shave balm and then a face moisturizer to provide your skin with a layer of protection.