A clean, close shave without the unbecoming cuts, razor burns, infections and bloody toilet paper are the gold standard in wet-shaving. Unfortunately, getting one of those unflattering marks happens more often than not, but there are some shaving tips you can follow to prevent nicks while shaving.
Take Your Time
A no-brainer, but the least followed advice is to take your time! Most shaving accidents come from bad practices which usually arise from carelessness. For a nick-free shave, pay attention to your strokes, your face, and your stubble while shaving.
Use the Right Products
Not all shaving creams, oils and razor blades are the same. It may take some time to find the right products, but the results are worth the search. Look for creams that contain a high concentration of moisturizers and lubricants. When it comes to razor blades, sharpness is key. Throw away dull blades to ingrown hairs and irritation.
Preparation is King
What you do before the shave is just as important as what you do while shaving.
- Shave after showering. To prevent irritation, it is best to shave after a warm shower as your pores are open and stubble is soft.
- Exfoliate. Before you shave, exfoliate your face as it softens hair and removes dead skin for a closer shave.
- Use pre-shave oils. Pre-shaving oils prevent razor burn and ingrown hair while allowing the razor to glide more efficiently on skin.
Related – The Importance of the Pre-Shave
Use a Shaving Brush
A shaving brush does more than create lather—it lifts facial hair for a closer shave, evenly builds a rich lather, and gently exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells and impurities for a comfortable shave.
Aftershave Care
Related –Natural vs. Synthetic Shaving Brushes
Once your shave is complete, rinse your face thoroughly to remove any cream or soap residue. Follow with an aftershave formula that cools and disinfects skin.
