Have you ever gotten a shave from a trained professional at a barbershop? It’s the ultimate manly luxury. You’ll never have a closer, smoother shave in your life. Unfortunately, we can’t get a shave like that every day. You can, however, borrow some of their skills and techniques. In order to recreate the experience, there are some simple tips you can follow at home. Using these tips will help you get a better shave, leaving you feeling confident and sexy.
Take a Shower First
Taking a hot shower before you shave will ensure that your face and beard are properly wet. Wet hair is easier to cut, and wet skin will help prevent razor burn. If you can’t take a shower, place a warm, wet washcloth over your face for several minutes before shaving.
Use a Non-Foaming Shave Gel
Recipe for Men has quality non-foaming shave gel, which will help keep your beard wet and allow the razor to glide effortlessly across your face. Lots of foam will only serve to clog up your razor and prevent you from getting the closest shave possible. It’s a good idea to leave your shaving gel on your skin for about a minute before shaving, so your beard will be thoroughly wet.
Use a Shaving Brush
A shaving brush is an excellent tool that all men should have. A shaving brush will help make your shaving gel creamier. Apply in a circular motion, and it will also help lift your beard hairs away from your face so that you can get an ever closer shave. A shaving brush will also help exfoliate your skin by removing dead skin cells that can get in the way of your razor.
Use a Sharp, High-Quality Razor
A sharp, high-quality razor is very important. A dull razor blade will give you razor burn. You should change your razor blade every three to ten shaves. In between shaves, you can also sharpen your razor blade by wiping it downward on a pair of jeans. Rinse your razor off using warm water while you’re shaving to remove built up hair and shaving gel.
Shave in the Direction of Hair Growth
The motion you use to shave is also important. Make sure you shave in the direction of the hair growth. To get the closest shave, go over the same area twice. Shaving against the hair growth may get you a slightly closer shave, but it will also cause bumpy, itchy razor burn.
Wash and Moisturize
When you’re done shaving, be sure to wash your face with warm water and a mild facial cleanser. A face wash that contains witch hazel or tea tree oil is best, because it will act as a natural antiseptic and help to prevent razor burn. Finally, apply a light layer of an aftershave lotion or balm. Use something made specifically for after shaving; normal moisturizer will be too heavy and can leave your freshly shaved skin too greasy looking.
It may take a little practice to get the techniques just right, but you’ll catch on. It may also take a little bit of an investment to get the right tools for the best shave, but it’s worth every penny. Bonus tip: Don’t skimp on your shaving gel, brush, and razor. High-quality tools will last longer and will definitely live up to their value in the long run.
