The Art of the Shave
This is a list of hints on how to properly shave with the singular goal in mind to get an efficient shave, while minimizing skin damage.
- Use a new razor and preferably one that does not have too many blades. Most recommend a single blade razor, but I have found a double or triple blade razor is a happy medium.
- Clean and inspect your razor for any damage. Cleaning your razor with alcohol can help to reduce the chance of you getting common problems such as folliculitis. Damaged or bent razors should be thrown away.
- Determine which direction your hair grows. Never shave in the opposite direction of hair growth. This is easy to determine. Rub your hand on your face the path of the most resistance is the direction you want to shave.
- Using the techniques discussed in Pre-Shave apply your shaving cream and softly rub it into your skin. The goal here is to get the hairs to stand up and prepare the skin for a good shave. I prefer a badger brush, but your cleanhand will suffice.
- Take your razor and shave in the direction of your hair growth. It is important to not go back and reshave the area that you have already shaved. This will increase your risk of irritation. If you must reshave an area, don’t forget to reapply your lubrication.
- Use as little pressure as possible to get a shave. This why it is important to have a sharp, new razor.
- Rinse the blade after every stroke to clean all the hairs off of the razor. This will help the blade sit evenly on the skin.
- Try to shave in a slow easy motion in the direction of hair growth. Shaving to fast or rough can increase your likelihood of irritation.