Dec 2, 2024 5 Minute Read
With the right preparation, quality tools and a knowledge of post-shave care, you'll soon master clean shaving. Read on to learn how to shave properly.
Shaving is something you might do daily or weekly without a second thought. Heck, you've probably followed the same routine since puberty. But did you know that a proper shave is much less a task and more of an art form?
Learning how to shave properly and effectively is an essential grooming skill. Read on to find the best way to achieve a smooth, irritation-free shave.
Your teachers might have taught you the importance of preparing for a test, but preparation is also the foundation of clean shaving. Whether it's your face or your body, it's best to start with a wet, cleansed and exfoliated surface. This ensures that your skin is free from any product, grime or dead skin cells that have accumulated.
A hot shower can open your pores, helping you get a close shave and a super smooth finish without ingrown hairs and razor bumps. Men who use a high-quality pre-shave oil can soften beard hairs and ensure the razor has a smooth surface to work on. Women can benefit from a good shave oil as well, as it prevents nicks and razor burns.
Men, if the length of your beard gives you the look of a hermit finally emerging from his secluded mountain lair, you might want to pull out the beard trimmer. Take some of that length off before you attack it with a razor. Using your razor to remove the entirety of your beard won't give you as smooth of a shave, and it can lead to razor burns and bumps.
If you want a good shave, you need to invest in quality equipment. Whether it's your face, legs, pits or pubic area, the tools you use have a direct impact on the quality of your shave. Men, invest in a shaving brush that helps you lather up with a high-quality shaving cream. A good lather protects your skin and helps your razor glide easily across your skin. Women, don't underestimate the importance of using shaving cream for a comfortable and close shave. Don't skimp on this essential.
When it comes to using the right razor, everyone's skin is different, so you might have to experiment to find what works for you. No matter which kind you use, always make sure it's sharp and clean. This is necessary to minimize nicks and irritation. You'll pay for days after a quick shave with a dull razor.
As to the number of blades your razor should have, that is down to personal preference. For some people, more blades on a razor equate to a smoother shave; for others, more blades mean more irritation. The benefits of a manual razor versus an electric razor also depend on personal preference and your shaving needs. Individuals who shave their pubic area might want to invest in a razor specifically developed for that sensitive area and delicate skin to help limit irritation.
Just as everyone's skin is different, hair growth patterns vary. When you're shaving, pay close attention to the direction of the hair growth and always shave in that direction. This might mean adjusting the direction in which you move the razor when shaving on different parts of your face or body, but it will pay off by reducing irritation and ingrown hairs.
If you're shaving your legs, shave in two steps: First, shave in the direction of your hair growth; next, shave against the grain. If you have extremely sensitive skin that's prone to irritation after shaving, skip the second pass. You'll have a smooth shave even without it.
For pubic hair, it's usually best to shave with the grain to avoid itching and razor bumps. This area is extremely sensitive; irritation is much more common if you shave against the grain.
A sharp razor won't require you to use excessive pressure as you shave. (If you find yourself having to apply pressure and wind up with skin irritation after shaving, it's time to change that razor cartridge!)
Use short strokes for all parts of your body. You'd think longer strokes would finish the job quicker, but shorter strokes are actually more efficient and do a better job of removing hair. Plus, you have more control with short strokes, which means less risk of cutting yourself.
Once you've finished shaving, wash off the shaving cream with warm water and rinse your skin with cool water. The cool water will help close your pores, preventing bacteria and dirt from entering. This will soothe the skin and help keep it irritation-free.
Pat dry, and then, most importantly, moisturize! An alcohol-free, moisturizing aftershave is ideal for men, as this helps hydrate and calm the skin. For women, moisturize with a non-irritating lotion. If fragrances are irritating to your freshly shaved skin, avoid using scented lotions immediately after a shave.
The right tools are key to a good shave, but keeping those tools clean and well-maintained is equally important. Make sure you regularly replace blades so they maintain optimal sharpness.
Depending on the amount of shaving you're doing, consider replacing your blade once a week or every five to 10 shaves. Check your blades frequently to look for rust and wear and tear.
Even with the best prep, there's always a risk of ingrown hairs after shaving. If you get ingrown hairs, don't pick at them! Instead, use a warm compress to soften the skin and reduce the inflammation. If the ingrown hair is visible, you can use a clean, sterilized needle or tweezer for extraction.
As always, if you suspect there's an infection, or you notice drainage or pus from the area, talk with your healthcare provider. To prevent ingrown hairs in the future, always shave in the direction of your hair growth and use an exfoliating scrub before shaving.
A smooth, irritation-free shave is closer than you think! With the right preparation, quality tools, and a knowledge of your hair growth and post-shave care and maintenance, you'll soon master clean shaving and enjoy a smooth experience that goes beyond routine.
Clinically reviewed on July 19, 2024.
These articles are intended for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and are not intended to treat or cure any disease. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in these articles. Advances in medicine may cause this information to become outdated, invalid, or subject to debate. Professional opinions and interpretations of scientific literature may vary. Consult your healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise or medication regimen.
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