Do you have trouble getting a clean, close wet shave? Many men do. So whether you’re trying to improve your own grooming skills or just learning a healthy shaving routine, we’ll explain everything you need to know to get your skin ready for the smoothest shave possible and avoid those nasty skin irritations.
First things first, let's talk about the proper tools you'll need. The most important one, of course, is a great razor. You'll want to make sure it's sharp and in good condition. If you're using a disposable razor, it's probably time to toss the one that’s been sitting on the side of the sink or in your shower for a while now, and grab a new one. You might also want to consider investing in a safety razor. These razors have a single blade that's protected by a guard, which helps to prevent cuts and nicks. They might take a little getting used to, but they're worth it for the close, smooth shave they can give you.
Another important tool to have is a shaving brush. One of these might seem like an unnecessary luxury, but using one can be a game-changer. A shaving brush helps to lift the hair away from the skin and create a rich lather around the hair, which helps to moisturize and soften the skin. The brush also helps to exfoliate the skin, which is crucial for getting a close shave. If you're on a budget, you can opt for a synthetic brush, but if you're looking for something more luxurious, you might want to try a badger hair brush.
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When it comes to shaving cream or lotion, there are hundreds of options out there. This can be an area where you might be tempted to skimp on, but it is highly encouraged and worth it to invest in a quality product. A good shaving cream or lotion will help to lubricate the skin and protect it from the razor blade. You'll want to choose a product that's free of harsh chemicals and fragrances, as products with these ingredients can irritate the skin. A product that's formulated with natural ingredients like coconut oil or shea butter is a good choice. There are also shaving oils that are good options for people with sensitive skin.
Once you've got your tools and shaving cream or lotion, it's time to prep your skin. This is where a lot of guys mess up. They jump right in with the razor, and end up with a face full of red itchy patches and ingrown hairs. To avoid these, you'll want to make sure your skin is clean and exfoliated. Take a hot shower or place a warm towel on your face for a few minutes before shaving to help open up the pores and soften the whiskers. Many men make the mistake of jumping in the shower and shaving first. Shaving last, will allow the heat from your shower to soften up the hair and moisturize the skin. Follow this up by using a gentle exfoliating scrub to remove any dead skin cells. This will help to prevent ingrown hairs and give you a smoother shave. Remember, using an aggressive exfoliating scrub meant for other parts of your body could irritate your face.
Finally, it's time to shave! Start by applying a small amount of shaving cream or lotion to your face and using your shaving brush to cover the area. Make sure to take your time and use a light touch. You'll want to shave with the grain of your hair, which means in the direction in which your hair grows. If you're using a safety razor, use short, light strokes and make sure you rinse your blade frequently. The product should be on your face, not your blade. If you're using a cartridge razor, you'll want to use a slightly firmer stroke to get the best results.
Once you've finished shaving, rinse your face and follow up with cold water to close the pores and soothe the skin. Then, apply a moisturizer or alcohol free after-shave to keep your skin hydrated and protected. If your face burns, you’re probably using a product with alcohol in it and you should choose something else next time. Alcohol will dry out and irritate the skin.
Getting a close wet shave is all about having the right tools, using the right shaving cream or lotion, and properly prepping your skin. With a little bit of preparation and some finesse with your touch, you'll be able to achieve a smooth, irritation-free shave and finally have the healthy attractive skin you’ve always wanted.