Try steaming your face by hovering your face atop hot water, while your head is covered by a towel. The steam will encourage your pores to open and soften any tough hair. Be careful to avoid getting too close or steaming for several minutes at a time, as it may dry your face out. Cleansing your face before exfoliation will help remove any dirt or bacteria that has been released from pores. If your face is not cleaned beforehand, the bacteria can be pushed down into nicks and cause ingrown hair or acne.
After each stroke, rinse the razor well. This removes any excess shaving cream, dead skin or hair build up from the blades. Don’t press the razor too hard. Remember that the blade does the work, not your muscles. When shaving under the nose, it is common for hair to grow down towards the tip and outwards. To prevent cuts, tuck your top lip under your teeth. This will pull your skin taut and will allow better exposure in such a small area. Use the razor and do short, small strokes, while working from the outside towards the middle of the lip. Don’t be afraid to only use the corner of the blade. Small strokes will allow for more accuracy and closeness. Use a similar trick for shaving the chin, by pulling your lower lip up around your teeth. This will flatten some curves of the chin. When shaving the chin, use short strokes and try your best for for a slight over-lap. The overlap will catch any missed hairs. Don’t be afraid to open your mouth and move your jaw in order to have optimum exposure on your chin. Hair on the neck will often grow upwards. Use the razor in upward, smooth strokes. Keep in mind the neck can be a very sensitive area, so it is important to shave efficiently.
When shaving against the grain, the hair is cut as close to the skin as possible. This will give the closest shave possible, but will also remove extra skin. While removing some skin is a normal part of the shaving process, this extra step can cause irritation such as bumps, ingrown hairs, or rashes. Hence, this step may be unacceptable on more sensitive parts of your face.
Use a warm towel to help soften your skin. [9] X Expert Source Marlon RivasFacial Hair Specialist Expert Interview. 17 January 2020.
Many razors have a pivoting head. This allows for the blade to move smoothly over the curves of the skin, helping ensure a close shave. A disposable razor can still be an acceptable razor. Though often low quality, a disposable razor will serve you well when used only once or twice. If you desire a high-quality razor, check that the blade head is of similar weight to the handle by balancing the shaft on your finger. An off balance razor can lead to an unequal shave. Pay attention to how the handle feels in your hand. If the handle doesn’t feel natural to you, there is usually a better option. If the handle is plastic, it may feel too light, and you may overcompensate with additional pressure that can cut your face. A better alternative to plastic is a metal handle, which will feel more hearty and is environmentally-friendly. Don’t be afraid to replace those blades. When you select your razor, purchase extra disposable heads. Replace them often to prevent nicks, and scratches to your face. To extend the lifespan of any razor, disinfect it and dry it after use. [11] X Expert Source Juan SabinoProfessional Barber Expert Interview. 28 January 2020. Not only will a damp blade harbor bacteria, but the moisture will damage the blade.
Although it is not scientifically studied, many users find gels allow closer and more moisturizing shaves. Lather-ups and soaps are a more traditional cream and should be used by expert level shavers. Foams and gels come in a variety of forms that can be chosen based on your skin type and fragrance preference.
If you have naturally dry skin, choose an aftershave in the form of a balm, gel or lotion. These aftershaves are moisturizing and gentle. If you have naturally oily skin, choose an alcohol or toner based aftershave. These aftershaves remove excess oil but sting on open cuts. [12] X Research source
