Email a copy of 'West Coast Shaving Classic Shave Set Giveaway' to a friend
Loading ...E-Mail 'West Coast Shaving Classic Shave Set Giveaway' To A Friend
Loading ... Loading ...
Facebook 
Sign up for Email Updates and Get the FREE Guide to Being a Gentleman
{ 390 comments }
My tip is for getting rid of that month old beard. Use electric clippers, or if you have time a comb and a very sharp scissors, to take the beard down as far as you can, down to shaving length. I do this at night before I go to bed. Put lotion on your face, thickly. Let it soak overnight, and then finish the shave the next morning, with your razor of choice. Ideally, you would use a shave brush and a safety razor. It really makes a difference if you moisturize your face after it has been bearded for awhile.
When I shave, I’m sure to keep my styptic pencil handy. Nothing says “unprofessional” like showing up to the 9:15 with your boss like a crusty, half-scabbed gash – or even worse a wad of toilet paper. They’re .97 cents at the Megastore, and one will last you for years. Get it and use it if needed.
Best shaving tip:
Trying to hack it all of in one stroke is not manly; it’s at best lazy and at worst the kind of overcompensating senseless bravado that will get you killed some day… or at least get you a jacked up face.
I’ve found that titanium dioxide based styptic pencils irritate skin much less that alum based pencils. They can be harder to find in drug stores but are readily available online.
Also, to follow up on John Herring’s post, if you don’t have time to clip your month old beard before shaving, use much smaller strokes to prevent the razor from getting clogged with long hair.
If you wrap a hot towel around your face for a few minutes before you shave, you’ll soften your beard and open up yours, ensuring an even more comfortable and closer shave.
I heat my towels by microwaving a damp towel (soak the towel in water, then wring out 80-90% of the water) for 30-60 seconds on high.
If you have some lemon or lime juice, splash it onto the tell before microwaving it for a great scent.
Always apply the lather hot, but rinse your blades cold. The hot lather will loosen your beard, but keeping the blade cold will prevent expansion of the metal which could heighten the chances of a cut.
I find a hot towel and a nice sharp blade are best. Also do not try to get everything in one pass.
Two words Hot Lather
Never trust your eyes when shaving. Checking the skin with your hands ensures that you will not prick the lady with that scrub.
Don’t!
Or at least thats what I decided after a few years with cheap disposables and easily-dulled and expensive electrics. I can get away with a beard, but I still use an electric razor for my neck and cheeks.
Its simple, but shave either in the shower or right after you get out, without drying your face in between. Then just pat your face dry, don’t rub.
1. After giving your stubble a good soak with hot water, spread a few drops of grapeseed/olive/canola oil on your face to help lubricate the surface. Also limits the drying effect of your shaving soap somewhat.
2. Shave three times: once with the grain, once across it, and once against it. Neck and mustache areas may only require (or tolerate) two passes.
2.5 (Each pass of the blade is a stutter: a one inch path, followed by backing up by about 2/3 inch, repeat until you’ve mowed your way. Then start again parallel to that path. )
3. Keep a small tupperware container filled with rubbing alcohol to a depth of about 1 inch. Immediately after shaving, dunk the head of your razor in the alcohol and swirl it around for a few seconds. This has two effects: 1) it removes the water from your blade, prolonging its corrosion-free life, and 2) kills any bacteria that may are on the blade, thus reducing irritation from your next shave.
It’s also a good idea to dunk the razor before your shave for the same antiseptic effect, but rinse thoroughly before actually shaving. Otherwise you risk a “Home Alone.”
4. A Tupperware container for your shaving soap is also great idea. Glad (I believe) makes these nice round threaded-lid containers that are about 3 inches deep by 4 inches wide. Perfect size for your soap, and can easily be sealed for travel (with just enough room for your brush inside). You should, of course, keep it open between shaves to let it dry out a bit. You don’t want it all gooey the next time.
I’ve learned that to get a really close and smooth shave from a cartridge razor requires a few things:
1)Growth-you want to actually have some hair to shave, not just little stubble. We’re talking about 2 days worth.
2)A clean/new razor
3)a relaxed face-that means relax take a hot shower. This will steam you up and relax and also open the poors. You don’t want to start shaving once you wake up because you’re still too puffy.
4)a good lather-use whatever shaving cream you want, but be sure to lather up and lift all those hairs.
5)shave 3 times-yes that’s right 3 times. First with the grain (down), Second across (side to side) and then finally against the grain (up). This will get you as close you as need to go.
6.)Cold water. Rinse off in cold water to close those pores
7.)Pat dry don’t rub, or best of all just air ddy
For those of us with skin that gets irritated easily, shaving with the grain is often enough for most occassions. Though a second pass may cut a bit closer, the difference is not as noticeable as most people think. (obviously depends on how often you shave)
Using some sort of face scrub afterwards is also useful to stop nicks from developing into small zits.
I second the
With / Across / Against school , with short repeated strokes and testing with your hand.
Very important:
Take some time testing out different blade types / blade angles before deciding old style wet shave isn’t for you. Do it on a long week end, or some vacation time, if you don’t want your coworkers to think your trying out for a gang that practices scarification ….
I also like shaving in the shower, I don’t use a mirror so it is all tactile. I love using shave gel instead of soap or cream, it stays on better in the shower.
I shave right after I shower. The warm/hot water from the shower had already loosened up my beard, which i find more convenient than covering my face with a hot towel.
Don’t shave for a couple of days.
Every so often, (about once a month or so) I go for a 2-3 days without shaving. On the day that I finally shave, I feel like a new man. It is a refreshing experience and it is more gratifying to shave a 3 day old nascent beard than it is to shave day old stubble.
For some reason it seems that I cut myslef less in the neck area (just under the chin) when I refrain from stretching my chin up as I’m naturally inclined to do. For me at least less skin stretching = less irritation.
Choose me, please! That set would make a terrific Christmas gift for my dad, he needs it desperately (though he does not know it yet).
Oh and also I found it to be easier to control the lathering process when I hold the brush by the bristles instead of the base ( advice from mantic59 himself!). That way you can squeeze out the best lather in the most difficult areas, and prevent yourself from lathering up your nose.
Shaving oil always leaves a nice and smooth finish
A lot less rough and stubbly 
I don’t use water when I shave except to clean the razor. I rub the shaving foam directly onto my dry face and then go at it. Another thing I noticed is most people don’t clean their razor in a pool of warm water. Instead they just run it under the tap. Sometimes though that doesn’t get all the hairs out of the blades. I’ve always plugged the drain and rinsed that way, for some reason it seems to clean the blade better. Plus it makes the shaving process feel more like a ritual instead of something I’m trying to get done quickly before class.
Best advice I can give to everyone is to take your time. Shaving is very rejuvenating and should be a relaxing, enjoyable process. We have to go through it enough, might as well have a good time, right?
I tend to be very methodical and take my time. I’ll usually enjoy at least fifteen, sometimes even thirty minutes for the whole process. I’ll be extra, EXTRA careful and every swipe of the razor is always careful and deliberate. This way, I never miss anything and rarely cut myself. Haste makes waste.
If you shave every mourning, I suggest waking up a few minutes earlier to have a relaxing shave. I’ve found this is a great way to focus myself in the mourning. The zen shave.
I also shave after showering, but i don’t just shave my beard, i also shave my head. And in a few years of doing it i’ve come to the conclusion that:
1. The blade that you are using can make the difference between a clean shave and a bleeding face – yep i said bleeding because it happened to me when i shaved 2 or 3 days after. A sensitive skin and the wrong type of blade can ruin your zen moment. Right now the best blades i have access to are wilkinson blades…but you can use whatever is best for you. GET GOOD BLADES!
2. Use a shaving CREAM. None of that stuff that comes in a can. That stuff has more chemicals that although will help you with your face, on the long run they are not good for your face. Half a year ago i switched to the stuff that comes packed like it’s toothpaste (had a guest that once mistook it for toothpaste). It’s not expensive at all. It was the cheapest one i could find at the time (less than 1$ per piece) compared to the rest of my shaving set…out of which my razor was the most expensive one (8$) at the time. I tried using foam and gel just to feel the difference. They are cold to the touch, but although the blade moves easy on my face, my skin feels threaten by these products…they feel…unfriendly.
3. Temperature is your friend. Make sure you Warm your face well before starting the shave. Use Warm lather. I use hot water with my blade but i will give it a try with cold water. At the end of your shave use lukewarm water to clean your face, then make it Colder to close your pores.
4. I never wipe my face or my head after shaving. I leave them wet. Sometimes i apply a creamy aftershave for my sensitive cream, and sometimes i don’t. In any case i seldom get an irritation nowadays. But when i do use a creamy aftershave i also like to have my head, face and hands wet. I don’t know why but it’s just smoother to apply the aftershave and i don’t have to wipe my hands. I just put the leftover aftershave on any part of my skin and let my skin absorb it.
So my best shave tip (I’ve only been shaving with a safety razor for about 3 months) is to pull your skin a bit tight, that way you avoid the skin moving as much and (for me at least) this results in less nicks and cuts. Also if your beard happens to grow in multiple directions, as mine does, rather than the “down across against method” I often find its more helpful to just go down and then against as it has led to less irritation.
My shaving tip comes from Harlan Ellison, via Neil Gaiman.
(http://tinyurl.com/692lc5)
“What you do is, you rub your stubble with hair conditioner. Leave it a couple of minutes, then wash it off. Then shave normally. Makes it really easy to shave. No scraping.”
Doing this in a hot shower helps.
For those of you with sensitive skin, or are prone to ingrown hair, I like to shave with the grain on my neck and upper lip, and 3 way on my cheeks. This keeps most of my shave very close while minimizing irritation.
When trimming my beard I always make sure to comb it first. Make trimming easier and much, much neater. Fewer stray whiskers and rough spots
Wow, with all of the comments already posted, the only thing I can say is take your time. Shaving shouldn’t be a “quick fix” ; it’s all right to take a few minutes to get a nice shave. As mentioned already:
• use heat
• wet your face
• lather up
• shave slowly and thoroughly
• use lotion after shaving
I shave my face and my head and I get a better shave if it’s been wet for a few minutes before starting to shave.
I fill up my sink with hot water and put my shaving cream mug in the water. This way, when I have to go back and touch up an area, I always have warm lather.
I’m just a noob at shaving regularly, so I can use all the help I can get – keep the tips comming.
The microwaved hot towel was my tip, but someone else was Johnny-on-the-spot with the response, so I’ll also submit that….
You can heat your canteen cup full of water in the field by placing it on near the back exhaust panel of an M2 Bradley for 30 seconds. Use gloves when handling the canteen cup to prevent burning. Great way to get hot steaming water in the field.
Take your time!
The mornings are always rushed. But, rushing through your shave will mean your shave won’t be even and close AND/OR you will be more likely to cut yourself.
If I could only keep one of my shaving tools, which one would it be? The badger-hair brush. Makes even crappy shaving cream go on better. Also fills young wanna-bes with admiration.
I second the opinion that waiting a few days helps. I am extremely prone to irritation, so I let it grow two or three days between shaves. Of course if you have thick dark hair like me you perpetually look like a scrub but it’s passable for a day and a half, and it’s better than bleeding everywhere. Shaving right out of the shower helps a ton, too.
Great thread!
My tips are the following:
1. A good badger hair brush is a must – they’re a bit expensive, but well worth it.
2. I use one of those “coffee cup warmers” (the little hot plate type deal that you plug in to keep your coffee warm) and keep my shaving cup with the lather in it on that. Helps to keep the lather warm. When lathering up for pass 2 or 3 (yes, it does take more than one pass for a good shave), the warm lather feels absolutely fantastic on your face.
Quick and easy:
Before you jump in the shower fill your sink with hot water and put your shaving mug into the water ( the water should not be deep enough to overflow and soak the soap). This accomplishes two things
1. You already have warm water at the sink faucet. This means you don’t have to wait for the hot water to get there when you want to shave.
2. It will keep your shaving lather warm when you whip it up. Warm lather is a much more pleasant experience.
I’m a fan of cold water for tightening skin and closing pores. But I find the best time for cold water is right before applying shaving cream. Much less irritation for me.
As a little girl I was fascinate by watching my Poppa shave. I would love for my husband to have the very supplies my grandfather used to use. I will pass on his ritual as well as I can remember:
Begin with tools very similar to what you are going to give away. Use the hottest water your face can stand, and look pensive as you take precise and decisive strokes. Also, it’s best if you shave in a white undershirt and finish with a liberal dab of Old Spice. It also helps if you rub your scruffy face on a small child’s belly to make them laugh before you begin. I’m not sure if that impacts the quality of the shave, but it certainly was part of his ritual when me or my cousins were around.
I can’t really add much more than what has been already said.
So – I think one of the best things to do up front is to make sure the face and neck have been thoroughly wet down with very warm water to soften the hair. If you have time, a hot towel is awesome to use. Then, as you shave, use your fingers on your free hand to ensure the beard is gone.
As far as against or with the grain, I think it really depends on the individual face. For me I go against the grain and I very rarely get ingrown hairs.
This may seem a little silly, but I try to get some brain work done while shaving. It has been shown that your brain likes to do new things. So I use my non-dominant hand to mix up the shaving cream, and to apply it to my face. This was difficult at first, but it is much easier now. I’m not brave enough to shave with my non-dominant hand yet. I also stand on one leg so as to increase my balancing ability. This is important as you age, as it helps to protect you from falls.
I know, I said it would sound silly.
I definitely have to say the always check with your hand approach is key, Us your hand and run it in all directions it will always feel smooth if you just check it with the grain.
Also, instead of a hot towel I prefer steam. Get the shower real hot and just sit it the steam that it produces for a minute or two, always gets me the best shave.
Also I prefer to go against the grain also, never have in grown hair and is always a bit closer and lasts a bit longer
Here’s the deal… shaving is not for taking of your beard, it is for defining your beard. Beards are manly, and should be grown at all costs. Therefore, remember that shaving is a way of defining your manhood. Be intentional about every stroke of the razor, otherwise you are carelessly defining you manliness.
Hot water not only helps the lather, but it does a wonderful job soothing razor burn if you get a bit too close with the razor.
Take your time and focus. The only time I ever cut myself is when I was going too fast or thinking about something else. FOCUS!
Against the grain, but very light touch on the neck, with a little re-lathering and retouching as needed
If you can, shave in the shower. Clean-up is so much easier and the steam is a natural way to keep the facial pores open. Fogfree mirrors are cheap enough and work well.
My best shaving tip is: DON’T! Beards are manly, and think of all the time you’ll save by not shaving every day (other than perhaps a bit of a trim around the edges). Plus, you have extra warmth this time of year which can be very welcome, you don’t buy razor blades nearly so often, and you’re not worrying about bleeding.
Take your time! This is a razor and your face/neck we’re talking about here.
I find the Mach3 razors to be reasonably durable and provide a nice close shave when using the With/Across/Against method. I wouldn’t be opposed to trying a safety razor though
Lots of good tips…here’s one I learned back in my military days:
I keep a disposable in the car and at the office for those rare instances where I find a spot that I missed. (Hey when you’re up and shaving at 5am sometimes things are a little foggy!) Often it’s not enough that anyone else will notice, but I can’t stand it when I find a few stray hairs!
Hi gents, just wanted to say that from a lady’s perspective, watching your guy shave can be a sexy! But not with the cheap plastic throwaway blades. I remember when my husband and I were poor college students dating, once or twice I got to watch him shave before a date, and the careful ritual was such fun to watch, especially when it is being done for you! And a little nice aftershave or cologne is wonderful too, but don’t be heavy handed…we don’t want to know you are coming before we even see you!
When i’m not rushed, i shave in the shower, with soap. It always presents a closer shave, and a smoother (less irritable) one as well. The hot water and hot soap work wonders!
The most important thing about a good shave is to take your time. Shaving in a hurry will result in nothing but a nicked up face. Take your time and be deliberate.
My shaving tip echos other tips already offered: TAKE YOUR TIME. Whenever I try to rush a shaving job, I always end up nicking myself. The irony, of course, is I spend more time tending to my wounds than I would have spent if I had just taken my time to begin with.
Two biggest things that helped/still help me:
1. Get a professional shave at least once. Even though it’s your face, they might tell you something you don’t know. For me, they pointed out some of the directional oddities of the way my beard grows. My neck has thanked me ever since.
2. If possible, shower before you shave. The water and steam will make your face happy. Not a news flash, I know, but it makes a huge difference.
My best shaving tip is simple: grow a full beard (and have good enough genetics that you find yourself not needing to edge it).
Tread lightly: The wet-shave really is great, once you get the hang of it. My biggest stumbling block was pressure. The current four- or five-blade razors require you to push firmly against your skin. Do that with a classic razor and you’ll bleed. Instead, use enough force to make contact and that’s it. Do a few passes with a light stroke and you’re set.
Next, if you don’t subscribe to the method of the classic razor, at least get one tub of shaving cream (like Taylor’s of Old Bond St.) and the brush. Prepare it in a warm mug. Much, much better than any more contemporary creams.
Finally, it took me many months to become good at the wet-shave, so be patient. Once you get it though, there’s no going back.
My secret speaks to what Louis said about focus. Nothing will guarantee a poor shave like not being focused.
I discovered this by consistently trying to rush a shave because I was getting up in the morning with barely enough time to shave, and rushed what should be a careful, peaceful process.
Using a safety razor takes time to do well, and the results, when done right, are outstanding. Rushing the process leads to uneven beard length, nicks, and even the occasional slice.
My tip is to wake up at least an hour before you shave, get some coffee in you, and take your time to set up your shave, and your day, right!
I also recommend using styptic swabs instead of pencils. Pencils tend to melt over time with exposure to water, and they sometimes leave a white powdery residue on your skin.
Oghma
Lather, apply a hot towel to really work the lather into your face and then re-lather before shaving. This process will truly soften up the beard for a great shave.
My best tip is for those times when you find yourself without your shaving cream. Use hair conditioner! It provides a nice skin lubrification and is an efficient hair softener by its own nature.
I shave in the shower; the hot water really helps to keep the irritation down. I also use the Gillette Fusion Power razor- that also helps with the comfort level.
The best tip is to shave after a shower. I have not made the full jump to the classic shave as I use “the king of shaves” products. It takes a while for water to get hot, so instead of leaving the faucet run I have a small bucket I fill after I shower (when the water is already hot)
Not saying that shaving is bad, but as a guy who works in the woods, I really really like keeping my beard all year round. It keeps you warm in the winter and keeps the bugs off in the summer. That’s just my opinion though.
The best tips I have a oldies but goldies.
Shave after you come out of a bath or shower. By this time the hair has been softened and the pores of the skin opened. This will result in a closer, cleaner shave.
Also, when shaving, be sure to pull the skin nice and tight. This prevent skin irritation and redness
MacGyver Tip:
If the wads of toilet paper or styptic pencils are just not doing it for ya anymore, you might want to try ChapStick the next time you nick yourself shaving.
it does actually work pretty well on the smaller cuts, however, you probably do not want to use the lip balm on the bigger cuts and I would recommend staying away from the flavored stuff; it leaves a weird color on your face
Take a shower before you shave. Use good products. Bond and Merkur are great. I also like Baxters of California.
If not using an electric, wash your face before shaving! Warm water works best for relaxing the beard and having clean skin reduces the amount of ingrown hairs post-shaving.
Blades are cheep. Toss em after a few shaves and start sharp.
I have two suggestions that have worked for me. First, I use a bit of lotion on my face before I lather up. It seems to protect my skin by smoothing the blade’s contact. Second, after I rinse the blade, I dry it. The blade lasts 3x as long.
My best tip is to use some good balm after you shave, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin (I have a very dry skin condition) . I don’t use any particular brand since I’m still trying them out, but it soothes my skin a lot and moisturizes it a bit, but doesn’t leave me feeling gross and oily since it isn’t as greasy and strong as lotion.
Proraso. Lather this up with a badger brush and you will know what I mean. If you have a hard time finding it, try Bath and Body Works. While waiting on my wife I discovered they rebrand the tubes and sell it for 5 bucks. Guess that’d be tip #2.
I usually shave in the shower, the hot water helps keep the irritation down.
My tip: Nair + a razor — but that’s for my legs!
My baby would looooove this set though!
Like many of the others, I suggest a double or triple shave.
Use an electric trimmer first if you more than a week or two of growth. Then, I like to shave gently with the grain. And Finally, if I’m going for an ultra close shave, I’ll rinse and re-lather for a third shave against the grain. Go slow and don’t worry about getting everything in one pass.
It works so effectively for me, I never have to worry about what to with a cut. I don’t get any.
To really make a woman love you… let her watch you shave.
To show her that you love her back… let her help.
I agree with the right after the shower method. After a hot shower, the room is nice and steamy, which keeps my skin supple. Cold rinse is a must, which helps “seal up” nicks.
I have never found a fog free mirror that worked well. Instead I prep my mirror by rubbing shaving cream* into it and then rubbing it off. Shower and then enjoy a clear mirror.
* Cheap shaving cream works best. I know this goes contrary to what is being promoted, but it works.
It’s amazing how much better a blade works when it’s new. Replenish often!
@Kevin – The only thing I can add to all this is that I’ve found that with a quality safety razor, the weight of the razor does all the work, I just have to guide it in the direction I want to go.
In that regard, I second or hundred or whatever the with/across/against method. It doesn’t take as long as you think, and it’s well worth it.
Shaving should always be the first thing you do out of the shower, aside from doing a cursory “drying yourself off”. Your beard and skin are never more hydrated than when you’re fresh from a hot shower.
Also, try to avoid drying your face off, even if you plan on putting hot water or a hot towel on your face before the shave. The cycle of wetting, then drying, and then wetting again robs your face of the moisture it absorbed during the shower.
And I agree with everyone else: a cold rinse is, in fact, a must.
The Merkur HD is a fine razor. My kids got me one for Father’s day and I really like it.
When I switched to a safety razor from the disposable kind, I cut my face up a little. I learned that shaving isn’t about beard removal, but beard reduction. Hold the razor lightly by the end of the handle, put the top of the razor against your face, then rotate it down until the blade just makes contact with your skin. When you begin shaving, let the weight of the razor do the cutting, not your strength; you won’t cut it all off in one swell foop, but you don’t have to. Going over the area a couple of times lightly is much easier than once and cutting yourself.
@Kevin – Agreed, this is extremely helpful. Thanks for the post and the comments. I’d love to start shaving with a safety razor.
Hot lather after a shower is old news to most here, but to keep a cool breeze form seeping into the bathroom on a long Saturday shave, I leave the shower running with the cold water off.
It turns the bathroom into a steam-room, and keeps a sudden cool gust from causing my beard to tighten u\p.
My tip is in regards to travel.
1. A DE safety razor is questionable for carry-on in the US, and straights are a definite no-go! Since I don’t want to chance losing it, I use a single-blade disposable razor when traveling by air. My razor of choice for this use is the BIC Metal razor, which can be found in bulk at Amazon. It has a fixed angle head and metal safety bar, and it really operates like a very light DE. Disposable razors are acceptable for carry-on travel.
2. Since the liquid limits are very low, I will either carry a very small tube of latherless shave cream, which can be sometimes hard to find, or a cake of shaving soap. If I bring the shaving soap, I carry my cheapest shaving brush inside a used prescription pill bottle. That way I didn’t have to spend money on an overpriced travel brush, but the head of the brush doesn’t get mangled up in travel.
well most of what i do is already mentioned.
But one of the biggest differences is the use of a brush and cream (taylors , with a nice scent). It just makes your morning better and you feel pampered which is in itself a good thing
I guess some of it depends on where you live, but since I live in a dry climate, I’m gonna recommend all us desert dwellers use a moisturizer on a daily basis to keep your face hydrated. That being said, I’m just using a name brand lotion with vitamin E, but I wonder if someone has something they really like out there?
My tip. Get a DE razor. Shaving is no longer a chore.
Also the cost difference means you dont feel bad throwing away old blades.
The best after shaving lotion I’ve tried is from the Art of Shaving. The lemon scented is amazing. It perks up my skin after a good shave.
I have Pseudofolliculitis Barbae and man does it suck. So, I can only shave twice a week without needing an IV and butchering my face. This unfortunately doesn’t work for most employers, though. But for those that can get away with it, this is a wonderful option. Allowing the hair to grow a little longer before shaving really helps the process.
Shaving after a hot shower works best for me. I am using Nivea products for sensitive skin which I like very much.
Once you have the lather on, Stop. Brush your teeth. Give the lather a chance to do it’s job, yes, but do something useful and necessary while you wait. Shaving is not so much about taking your time as it is about having a system.
If you find yourself without your good shaving cream or shaving soap (e.g. on a trip in an unfamiliar city), you can get a decent lather with regular soap and a good brush – much better than picking up an aerosol of goop in the hotel store.
Always shave after your shower, by which point your beard should be well-hydrated and your skin moisturized. (If you must shave without showering first, then wash your face in hot water, apply lather, and wait for 3 minutes.) If your skin is a little irritated, you can also apply a pre-shaving lubricant oil that is sold in specialty shops.
You should apply the lather only twice — the first time to shave “with the grain,” and the second time to shave “against the grain.” When shaving, complete each stroke and then rinse the razor free of hair; otherwise, the blade won’t cut effectively and you’ll be “tugging” at the hairs rather than cutting them.
Finally, I end the shave by washing my face in hot water, followed by a cold-water rinse, and then applying a moisturizing aftershave. Specialty shops have nice ones with manly scents.
I like to shave after I get out of the shower, that way my beard stubble has been softened up by the steam and hot water by the time I shave.
Also nothing smells like a man more than the smell a good smelling shaving cream leaves behind.
Best shaving tip … don’t press hard, get the skin taut and then only press hard enough to keep contact as the blade slides.
This makes sure that the hairs are cut, not pulled out, and the blade can only cut hair, not skin.
Skip the styptic pencil. I find that a little cold water or a small ice cube will stop the bleeding quite quickly, and believe me, I’ve had some real bleeders.
My second piece of advice would be to drop the safety razor and go for the straight razor. If your afraid of running one of these potential weapons over your face, check out http://www.shavemyface.com for a useful PDF that walks you through all you need to know. The first time I used a straight razor I cut myself seven times, but a couple of weeks later I was shaving nick free with some of the smoothest skin I’ve ever felt.
I use a pre-shave oil.
Art of Shaving as a very good one. But it’s a bit pricey.
American Crew has a good one as well but with sensitive skin the Tea Tree oil is a bit too much for me.
It really helps, along with a badger hair brush and a good cream. By the way Taylor of Old Bond Street Avocado is excellent for a sensitive face! A sharp razor too.
Sometimes I use olive oil to shave, you’d be surprised out how much less razor burn you get for using that instead of shaving cream.
Straight razor and cold rain water collected in a rusty tin can. Nothing more manly.
I shave IN the shower. Love that my beard is soft and I can thoroughly wash off any shaving cream. Plus if you dry your razors on a towel they’ll last longer.
DO NOT shave the same spot more than three times and rinse your blade often.
DO shave with the grain first, across the grain next, then against the grain.
DO NOT be afraid to use your wife’s nice face lotion afterward (as long as it doesn’t smell like her or Jean Nate.)
DO take your time and go slow, even with safety blades.
Shave with the grain. Going against it can have bad consequences.
I think the single largest change to my shaving routine was to ditch the drugstore shaving creams in the pressurized cans. I bought my first two pots of Taylor of Old Bond street shaving cream on a trip to London a year ago and it has made all the difference. I don’t get as many cuts, and it doesn’t burn – shaving has become a pleasurable experience rather than a chore.
I generally shave in the shower. Before shaving, I run my face under the hot water for a minute. After I shave, I the showerhead from normal to a fine mist, and wash away the excess foam. It feels really good, and it’s cooler than the normal water temperature.
In summation, I heartily recommend rinsing after a shave with some kind of spray, rather than running water. A nice, refreshing lukewarm towel is fine, too.
Personally, every one in a while, maybe every other month, I let the beard grow on its own, only trimming its length but not the edges. I find that I often start to cut into the shape of the beard, and this week long procedure helps even it up and stops it from getting random weird angles
To help reduce razor burn on the neck area, pay particular attention to the direction of the hair growth. I have swirls in the grain on either side of my larynx, and if I don’t watch for the direction of the growth, I get razor burn every time.
Shave in two steps: First, with the grain and secondly against the grain for the ultimate close shave.
Oh man I’ve been talking about safety razors since August and I *still* don’t have one. Count me in!
All great tips, and I would like to add the following for final clean-up:
Get an inexpensive set of beard/trip clippers so you can
1) Clean up the line on your sideburns, no matter how long or short they are.
2) Trim that fuzzy, curly growth that grow over the tops of your ears between haircuts.
For the short-haired gentlemen like myself, have a wife or girlfriend or someone you trust trim the growth along the back of your neck to remove the fuzz and create an even line. You can use clippers or a razor here depending on how much you trust the person doing it.
Finally, take the opportunity to treat yourself to a real, barbershop, straight-razor shave once in a while. A good barber will be happy to do it and it is a great way to relax–like a day at the spa for us guys…
make sure you always shave in one direction than you hair will grow in evenly.
Shower at night, then shave right when you get out. Your beard will be softer, and easier to shave. You won’t sleep with all the dirt, grime you accumulated during the day. And you will be clean, smell good and have a smooth face, making it much more likely to receive affection from your wife!!
I’ve also switched to the wet shave with a double edge razor the last couple years and agree it is much better on the face. My tip would be to use a pre-shave oil before you put on the shaving cream. This greatly reduced the amount of irritation and gave me a much closer shave. Art of Shaving makes a very good one, though it is expensive, but there are others out there as well.
A styptic pencil is invaluable. Even the best of us get nicks every now and then and these things will stop the bleeding ASAP. Don’t be that guy who covers his face in tissue.
I have found that if I apply conditioner to my stubble when I am showering it soften ups the stubble and makes for a smoother shave.
Do not skimp your brush and buy boar because it’s cheaper! Badger brushes, tho more expensive, will generate a significantly better lather and improve your quality of shave.
Also, make sure to soak the brush in hot water before building lather. I typically fill my later bowl up with hot water and stick the brush in it before I shower, so as soon as I get out of the shower I can hit the shave.
Shave while showering…
Your whiskers will be softer and will cut easier with a good razer.
My skin is very sensitive and dries up easily. Especially in the winter with the cold and all. So instead of using hot water that would leave my face desert dry half way through my shave I prefer to use water that is slightly above room temperature. No dry skin and a good shave nonetheless.
This works for me and may not work for someone else so i guess my best shaving tip is this: Experiment! No matter how many shave guides you read chances are that you will never find one that is exactly suited for your skin and/or beard type
.
Trail & error people.
Shaving is an adventure not a science.
Another advantage of shaving soap … it’s not a liquid, so you can pack it in your carry-on luggage without ridiculous restrictions or little plastic bags.
I got one of those fog-free mirrors that stick with suction cups to the side of the shower, and it has been worth its weight in gold, at least as far as my face is concerned.
My best shaving tip is shave when you want to shave, not when you have to shave. Unless you have a big meeting with a client, or are the anchor on the 5 pm news, its usually OK to sport a little growth. But even if you have to shave every day for work, you can do it first thing when you wake up, or after your breakfast. This makes it less of a chore and more of a manly pleasure so you can really enjoy your shave rather than view it as something you have to do each morning.
Wow, there’s nothing I could say that hasn’t already been addressed repeatedly. I’d love to enter using the code from the RSS feed, but alas, I get the feed, and I see no “secret code” at the bottom of this entry
Shaving in the shower has always worked the best for me, environmental concerns be danged.
Well, I shave with a straight razor, but the same rules apply for getting your face baby’s butt smooth:
1) Shave right out of the shower, or at least after warming your face with hot towels to open the pores.
2) Lather up well with your badger-hair brush
3) Shave against the grain, relather, across the grain, and if necessary, relather and against the grain.
4) This is important: with each pass, aim for *beard reduction* not *beard removal*. Too many people hack away at their faces with Mach 3s trying to eliminate the stubble in one pass.
5) Don’t use any pressure: let the weight of the razor do it. Holding the safety razor at the end of the handle helps remind you of this: holding it too close to the blade tempts you to push too hard.
6) Use the proper angle: the blade should be about thirty degrees from your face. The best way to get this is to rest the blade flat on your face first, and then turn it up from the back of the blade to the proper angle. Placing the blade on vertically and rolling down is more likely to cut you.
7) Take your time, and enjoy the experience!
Laser beard removal. I suffer from a pretty bad case of uneven facial hair growth, stemming from a fire-related accident I had when I was a teenager. So growing a beard is out, and I don’t particularly enjoy shaving (especially my neck), so I think it might be worth the investment to never have to worry about it again.
Use hot water to open the pores of you skin before the shave.
Use cold water to close them back up. (also feels very refreshing)
Doing this will not only help you get a closer shave, but will also clean your skin better.
I’ve found that rinsing with hot water after the first and second time, then ice cold on the third pass is the best for me. The hot water helps bring the stubble out each time, and the cold water tightens up the face, while stopping any bleeding from minor nicks… Then the styptic pencil for any that remain…
Run that blade through a wine cork a few times before you load it into the safety razor. This will help smooth any small burrs and other imperfections from the manufacturing process. Think of it like stropping a straight razor, or using a steel on your kitchen knives.
Its best to shave with the grain of your facial hair. On your cheeks and jaw this is easy but on your neck the hair typically grows in three different directions. Its also best to lather twice. This can help the hair stand up a little more as well open the pores on your face.
For you intrepid travelers: In hot/humid environments (i.e., the tropics), it’s best to shave with cold water rather than hot to prevent razor burn when shaving with a disposable razor.
The only tip I feel I can offer that hasn’t been offered a hundred times already is one that applies to those of us who, for one reason or another, haven’t had the means or opportunity to upgrade to a safety-razor or straight razor wet shaving experience yet.
The best way I’ve found to maintain your cartridges for as long as possible, and maintain their sharpness, is to make sure you dry them off after you are done shaving. Corrosion is the main cause of cartridge degradation, and why they feel like they are tearing your skin off after just a couple shaves (they are…)
When I’m done shaving, I always pat the razor thoroughly dry with a towel, and will occasionally oil them with a few drops of a light household oil (3-in-1 oil works well, though I suppose olive oil or canola oil would work just as well.) If you have a small cup or container you don’t mind parting with, you can also use that as an oil reservoir to store the razor, cartridge down, in between shaves.
Best tip I can give for a good wet shave: Straight Razor.
I switched to a straight(or cutthroat) razor when I started a new job in sales. At my previous jobs I had been able to shave every few days, as I was not in front of customers. Once my position changed, and I was needing to make “first impressions” on an hourly basis, I needed to shave, and also avoid annoying ingrown hairs that made me look like a 14yrd with bad acne.
A straight razor, properly wielded, can shave closer than any disposable, and leaves virtually zero ingrown hairs. Not to mention that nothing boosts your manliness quotient like completing a menial task with a deadly weapon.
Next Step: mow the lawn with a series of Claymore Mines.
I have a slow growth beard so to second K.M. Jones, I have found that every-other-day shaving results in a better shave. Also, I have less irritation than when I shave every day.
My tip is for getting rid of that month old beard.use electric razor.
By the way, I would like to mention that I’m glad somebody finally explained what “with the grain” meant – I’ve been hearing that all my life and had no idea what people were talking about, not being aware that my chain had a grain.
I personally think shaving before you shower is the way to go.
I do a lot of traveling; sometimes you will hit issues in which you did not expect to have happen. For me, one of those times was when I was in need of a shave and you did not have time to buy a new supply of your favorite shaving cream. In this event, I grabbed my travel bottle of conditioner and lathered up my face with it. Not only does this soften the hair, the minerals and vitamins will also do wonders for the skin as you shave.
Shaving tip one:
Get a blow put about a cup of water (enough to soak a small towel) into it then ad few drops of lemon juice into the water then ad a small soft towel. Place in the microwave for about 45 seconds. Go sit in your lazy boy chair and kick back and relax when 45 seconds is up have someone come wring out the towel and place on your face till the towel is between lukewarm temp and hot.
Back when I used to shave with Naked Steel ( I have lost The Touch, and my last attempt reminded me of a movie:”There will be Blood”) what I found to work best was the following:
Wrap a HOT towel around your face.Get all that hair nice and soft.
Take thee thy badger-hair brush and whippeth (whip it good) a thick cuppa suds using William’s MUG soap.
Work it in. you want to try and imobilize that stubble.
Take your razor-now, I really didn’t have a lot of preference, with maybe the exception of the injector blade straight razor i used for a while-anyway, take your razor and use short strokes. Not long strokes, short. This lets the whiskers get out of the way of the edge.
Be Mindful. one second’s inattention and you’re cut. If you really space out, you’re gonna find all the styptic in the world’s not gonna stop the flow.
Rinse.
If it’s a special occassion (no whisker burn on her) Rinse. Lather. Repeat.
But in all honesty, I gave it all up over 10 years ago for the triple-headed buzzer.
The manly way to shave:
1. was face with warm water
2. put some shaving cream on your face and lather well using shaving brush
3. Shave gently, avoiding cuts, on one direction (the direction of your hair growth) to prevent ingrown hairs. Make sure you have a good, clean, shaving blade.
4. after shaving, wash up with luke warm water..and dab your face with a towel..
5. do not forget to use after shave or any moisturizer..this will keep your face fresh and healthy..
and oh yeah, girls will start falling for you soon after this
My best tip for shaving is to have a war face. Figure out how to contort your skin, either by facial expressions or by using your free hand to move the skin into position, in such a way that the hair stands as close to 90 degrees to the skin as possible. Puffing out each cheek works great for cheek shaving, a must for guys who need to start shaving just under their eyes. War face, gentlemen. Find yours.
Hot towel just like the ole days
TIP #1: CHOOSE YOUR RAZOR – No matter what you do, you will always want a good clean shave and a smooth face when you’re finished shaving. Why not do a little shopping around and see which razor is right for you? Once you choose a razor, stick to it! If it has disposable heads, buy a whole bunch at one time. Don’t get tempted by new commercials. If you choose electric because it’s faster, you can still use a good cream with some “wet” models. A man’s razor is the first kit item in any toiletry kit. If cords are necessary, always keep them with the razor. Don’t mess around with too many shaving heads. My suggestion: the more blades the better. The less used, the better.
Several others have mentioned the hot towel and for times when you shave without a hot shower first, it really helps. I keep a nice washcloth out such occasions.
Another tips is to enjoy some of your shaves. I bought a Rolls Safety Razor years ago and will occasionally set aside extra time to go through the “trouble” of using it. This is a relaxing ritual and it shaves much closer than any multi-blade razors I normally use.
Ed
I like to alternate between an electric shaver and a blade. On the electric front, make sure you get a self cleaning one. Every shaver I ever bought worked great for a bout a week, until it got gummed up with oils and such. My Braun shaver works great every time because the cleaning fluid gets all the gunk out every time.
I swap out the fluid every couple of months and replace the blade about once a year. Great gift for yourself or someone you love.
It’s never a good idea to try to shave under your nose.
I once did this, and blood literally dripped out from that microscopic cut for about 3 days.
Hot towel, or preferably a hot shower. Sharp clean blades, and always rinse the blades in cold water.
Sounds like a lesson a number of us have learned over the years.
First you should exfoliate. This gets rid of all the dirt, grime and dead skin. Next, apply lather and shave with the grain. This help to reduce irritation. For those of you looking for a closer shave, you can go against the grain on the second run.
If you have long facial hair, you should trim it down with a beard trimmer before using a blade.
Also, I like to use a razor with multiple blades. This reduces the amount of strokes which reduces irritation.
Only shave when your face and neck is warm and wet. Use a steady pull on the razor and do 3 passes. One against the grain, one with the grain, and one across the grain.
Keep a styptic pensil handy.
Heat is the key!
I shave in the shower. I picked up a cheap shower mirror; just be sure to clean behind it. The mildew can build up quick.
I only shave once a week but when I do I always use lotion after. It keeps my face from drying out too much and keeps me looking like I’m in my 20s still.
I’ve always shaved with the grain, whereas I’ve read that some people suggest shaving against when incorporating multiple passes for the cleanest possible shave.
While the multiple blade design appears to work decently, however when it comes to creating sharp lines along your sideburns or other manly features the result is often crooked lines. Safety razors are certainly the way to go.
To prevent ingrown hairs, about once a week, I’ll use an electric… just gives my skin and whiskers a break. But never when i want the closest shave for a night out with my wife.
I’m getting set to switch to a DE from those insanely expensive cartridge razors. My dad used a safety razor, and I figured it’s time for me to step up to the mic. All these tips and comments have been great.
My tip is pretty simple, but it’s given me the best results so far:
Get yourself a fog-proof mirror and shave in the shower after you wash your face. My shave has been closer and smoother since trying this, plus it saves me a little time if I have to get ready in a hurry.
I always shock my face with cold water right after applying aftershave. It closes your pores a bit tighter and it leaves your skin extra soft. Also, use a face scrub before you shave to clean off any oil or dirt that could reduce the quality of your shave. Put these two methods together and I can guarantee a closer, smoother shave.
Shaving after a hot shower helps alot more then just splashing some water on your face and helps get a closer shave.
If you are using a shaving cream, work up a nice later in a preheated thick ceramic bowl. That way the bowl keeps the lather warm
I still use an electric shaver (hence my reason for really wanting this shave set) and have found that it helps to splash cold water on your face afterwards. Really basic knowledge probably but all I know. An aftershave also probably works but I’ve yet to find one that I really enjoy.
If you do not yet use a brush to shave, start. You get the closest and cleanest shave that way, and the bristles are good for the skin. Immediately afterwards, I put a piping hot washcloth on my face, followed by an ice cold one, to open and close the pores.
Best tips?
Don’t use dull blades. Replace them more often than you think you need to. You’ll regret it the first time you cut yourself.
Also – shaving after a shower is really nice – your beard is very moist.
I also prefer moisturizing lotion (something as chemical free as I can find) rather than an alcohol based “aftershave” – keeps my skin smooth and not irritated.
I find that if I put on the shaving cream as I’m getting out of the shower and let it sit on my face while I’m toweling off, I get a cleaner shave and I’m much less likely to cut myself.
My day starts at 3am, so I am looking to squeeze every minute of morning prep time I can so I can sleep as much as possible. I find that shaving in the shower is helpful. The hot steam makes shaving that much better. I have often thought about going with the classic shave with the old brush and suds on the face. I actually have my Dad’s old double sided razor that he carried in WW2! One thing though, if you try shaving in the shower, it’s important to find a good mirror with strong suction cups or hangers to have on the shower wall.
Don’t use an electric razor, they are just lazy, if you can get away with it you should just get in one good wet shave once a week.
Styptic pencils are great and all, but there’s a much easier (and cleaner-looking) solution to minor cuts.
If you’ve just finished shaving, look up in the mirror, and realize that you look like a victim in a Freddy Krueger flick, simply get a washcloth, run the hottest water you can get out of the tap over it, and press firmly on the cut(s) for about 5 seconds. Repeat until the bleeding stops, and you’ll find that, not only is there no longer a bloody cut, but you aren’t even MARKED.
This trick has saved me for countless dates, business meetings, parties, etc.
If you have a very important event at the end of the week, and you need your face looking clean and smooth, wet shaving is the way to go. Many men, however, worry about getting razor burn, cutting themselves, or marring their skin the day of. For great recommendations, read any of the above comments as they’re bound to be full of good commentary. However, here are my best two tips for an EASY and CLEAN shave.
1. Don’t shave for a few days prior – If your job can afford to let you grow a 3-day beard, go for it. Hairs that are a little bit longer are easier to cut cleanly the first time. Think about having to cut down a tree vs. a stump.
2. While in the shower, use your wife’s conditioner on your beard — massage it into your skin and let it sit for about 2 minutes before rinsing it off. The better the conditioner, the softer the beard. Keratin, the stuff your hair is made of, is about as hard as copper, so keep that in mind. Conditioner helps the razor cut through the first time, allowing for a smoother, cleaner shave. Best shaving comes right after your shower.
For other tips, be sure to read the other posts. If you’re worried about bleeding or cutting yourself, just do the downstroke (with the grain). If you followed my tips, you’ll be impressed how nicely your safety razor can perform in just one direction. Also, if you haven’t purchased one by now, safety razors are the way to go. It makes it much easier to start with a fresh blade, and the shave is nicer all around.
I agree with the cold water on the blade suggestion.
I have acne prone skin and found out a long time ago that a cold blade reduced the skin irritation allowing for pimples to develop.
I have also found that showering after I shower allows me to cleanse the skin and remove unneeded oils from the shave gel/lotion/soap.
Also, be aware that although some of the new, high-tech, multi-blade, super, fantastic disposable blades with “slick” strips may appear to effectively shave your beard for a few weeks they do build up bacteria and can cause severe infections when they do cut your skin.
Hide your razor! I lived with 3 women, beleive me, they have NO scruples when it comes to using YOUR razor and dragging it over God knows where.
If you can, wait. The longer the hair is the softer it is so it’s easier for the blade to cut through. Also, I tend to puff out my cheeks like a blowfish so more hair is above the surface of the skin. I do the chin last since it’s the coarsest and the shaving cream has had time to soak in.
Get a fogless mirror and do everything in the shower. after washing your hair and body. save the shave for last. i guess the only other way to get a top quality shave is to find a good barber with steady hands. just make sure he uses real lather and not barbasol out of a machine.
If you’re converting from an electric shaver back to a blade, you have some bad habits to break. Most important, you’re probably used to shaving against the grain of your beard for a close cut. You’ll want to do just the opposite with a razor, or you’ll quickly find out what the styptic pencil is used for.
I do it all in the shower. The mirror I use still gets fogged up, but just hold it under the shower stream and it’s completely cleared. So much easier for cleanup. I usually clean everything first, then put some conditioner in my hair so that it can sit while I shave, then rinse and go.
There are a lot of variations, but the basic elements are: really hot water; really sharp blade; a good lubrication; and attention to detail. Skip any one of these four at your peril.
You have to take your time — let your beard soak under a hot towel for long enough to absorb the moisture. Rub in the gel or cream thoroughly — use a bruch if you like. Don’t rush the strokes so you don’t get nicked. Take time to check the reults with your wet fingertips and re-shave as needed. It’s not rocket science but there is an art to it.
My tip is to shave in the warmest temperature of water you can stand in the shower. Before shaving use a Buff Puff to remove old skin, which seems to soften your skin and facial hair. That is one thing that seems to do me well.
So. You all want a piece of the action huh?
I can understand.
Here’s my simple tip. You’l wonder what the hell you were doing without it.
Sorbelene cream under the lather (soap, foam or whatever you prefer) works a charm every time. It gives a little moisture to make it run over your skin, while cutting the beard free.
Have a great one!
L
The key to a great shave is water as warm as you face can take it, a sharp razor, and pulling your skin tight as your glide the razor across the whiskers. Use the hot water to soften your beard, a wash cloth or the end of a hand towel works well. Get a good lather, I like shaving soap. Go over the skin in one direction, and only one time.
Good luck son, you’ll need it.
-Gregor
Once you start, you won’t ever want to go back.
My only question is this: Is a safety razor ok for manscaping? Haha
my tip is actually the best thing to do with your shaving cream.
PUT IT ON YOUR MIRROR.
once you wipe it off, it will keep the mirror from getting fogged up from the hot water while you shave.
short, sweet, and simple.
Enjoy.
For goodness’ sake, do not shave against the grain!
I switched to a razor after years of using an electric shaver. I instantly loved it except for the extra time it takes. To save time and get a much more enjoyable shave, I bought a fog-free mirror that hangs in the shower and I shave as part of my shower. It is impossible to get a softer beard and smoother shave than with all the normal steam and heat of a nice hot shower!
Make sure to moisturize after shaving!
I’ve been shaving with razor blades for almost a year now. Making shaving a ritual turned a chore into a pleasure.
If you have access, shaving in a sauna after you’ve sat for a few minutes primes your skin for a close shave.
I think the best shaving-related thing I have discovered lately is just how much I was spending on those darn cartridges! So now it is time to finally start using that straight razor I bought a few years ago. There may be a little hacking over the next few days, but I will never, *ever* buy over-priced, disposable, battery-powered (what was I thinking?!?!) shaving-related garbage again.
My best wet-shaving tip, other than taking your time and not pushing too hard, is this:
After you’ve got your beard good and soft with hot water, and you’ve wet the brush with the hottest water you can and lathered it up really well with the shaving soap — let a few drops of that very-hot water onto the tip of the brush before applying the soap to your face. It’ll feel warmer, even to a face that’s been treated with a hot washcloth just moments ago, and you’ll be surprised how much difference it makes to the brush, even though it’d been in that hot water just moments ago before the lather.
Makes a difference! Really!
Ted
If you are prone to ingrown hairs/ razor bumps use an exfoliator with glycolic acid to get rid of the dead skin that can clog the pores.
1. Always draw the razor in the same direction as your stubble is growing.
2. Shave the heaviest growth areas last – it gives the shaving foam more time to warm and soften the bristles.
3. Finish with a splash of cold water to close the pores and wake you up for work.
Shave in the shower, it saves time and water, and the warm/hot water helps open the pores to give a closer shave with less irritation.
Best shaving tip – Do it in the shower. I have a very thick beard and nothing works better at softening the hair than pre-shave lotion in a steamy shower. A little shave oil and some lather and you’re all set.
If a shower cannot be taken beforehand, then using a hot wet towel to loosen up the beard really works wonders…..especially if you’re someone like me who tends to go a few days in between shaving.
I also try not to shave too high on the cheeks so that I don’t have stubble creeping into my eyes like my junior high math teacher. In all seriousness, those hairs are better left to be plucked or trimmed with scissors.
I shave with an old fashioned straight edge razor, which will leave you much cleaner than any cheap store bought disposable. If you decide to use one of these razors, keep in mind there are no safety devices, and any slight movment may cut deep. So first things first, make sure you are fully awake, puting a sharp razor on your face while still groggy is not well advised. The hand angles are a bit awekward at first, but take your time at first, and you will figure out how to put the blade properly on your face. Finally it is also a good idea, with any type of shaving, to take a warm shower before hand, it softens the whiskers, and also servers to wake you up.
I use one of them razors that vibrate along with a good, warm lather. Nothing like a good after shave lotion with some eucalyptus in the mix to round off a great shave in the morning.
It is said that a craftsman is only is as good as his tools, so do obtain the best quality shaving implements and accessories you can afford and learn how to use them properly. Skill will improve dramatically in time, so be patient with yourself. But that’s only a third of the plan. The other two-thirds consist of correct preparation. Abraham Lincoln once said, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” Regardless of your choice of tools, make absolutely sure that you have softened the skin and whiskers, either with a hot shower or the application of hot towels, followed by plenty of hot water, before even thinking of applying cream or soap. Then, take your time as you begin your shave. I reiterate, take your time! Nothing worthy has ever been achieved in a harried or haphazard manner. At first this may seem quite a foreign concept; however, in due time, with many successful shaves to your credit, you will find that you have somehow rearranged your busy schedule to accommodate this beautiful, peaceful and immensely rewarding ritual into your daily life. And without a doubt, you will be a better man for it. Websites abound with more instructive detail than you can possibly imagine. I mention a few for your convenience: straightrazorplace.com, badgerandblade.com, and shavemyface.com. Investigate them, study and digest their prolific content, and begin today. Trust me, you’ll never look back.
I can’t believe how many people are on this site nowadays haha.
I love old-school shaving though, I hate when I’m in a situation where I have to use a Mach3 or something. My only advice to some people that haven’t wet shaved yet is to make sure you use short quick strokes, don’t push hard, and make the first pass with the grain.
My favorite tip it to use Vitalis. I don’t shave everyday because it irritates my skin so I use Vitalis to soften my beard.
Gotta love the wet shave!
Here’s a tip for anyone who’s run out of shaving cream, but still wants a really close DE shave. In a pinch, you can use Hair conditioner. That’s right! The same stuff that makes your wife’s hair so lovely and soft can also be used to soften your whiskers. Just apply to a wet face and let sit for a minute or so. Trust me, you’ll never get a closer, nick-free shave (this technique works especially well in the shower or bath).
Happy shaving!
Shaun
Use a scrub before you shave.
Lather your face with a gel shaving cream.
I read the original post about a year ago and found myself in an antique store looking at safety razors about a week later. Before then I’d casually seen them in other antique stores but, being a young guy in my early 30s, I hadn’t given them a second thought. Then I sort of forgot about getting one as life got busy again.
Just yesterday I was reading old posts and stumbled upon the article again and followed that up by passing two hours looking for razors & supplies on Ebay.
This blog has become, quite accidentally, my connection to a simpler world.
Thanks!
Don’t nick yourself. You usually bleed when that happens.
If all else fails, grow a beard. You’ll look like a badass
I’ve been sporting the cueball look for years, and I hope I can provide a little wisdom/experience from all the extra practice.
1. Shave in the shower. If you need, get a little mirror and wipe it clean so it stays clear, but you may as well get used to relying on feel instead of look.
2. Ivory soap & a brush easily trump canned foams or gels for comfort, ease of use, and cost. I find a thick lather isn’t necessary, just enough to keep everything lubed and smooth. I probably prefer Ivory because it’s what my grandpa used.
3. On the face, I like once with and once against. Head, just once against (up/back). If you are getting ready for a date, use a new one and take an extra pass, you stud.
4. Pat, don’t rub. Seriously.
5. Use some goo that doesn’t smell much or get greasy, and remember that aftershave doesn’t have to burn to work. If you do your whole noggin, SPF aftershave is an excellent idea.
And this may not apply to many, but don’t be afraid to try your entire head if you think you might pull it off. Maintenance is easy, you gain an intimidating aspect, and it’s just plain awesome when on your first date, she asks, tentatively – “Can I touch your head?”
For years I lived in places with slick porcelain sinks and ceramic tile floors and out of safety concerns I found a plastic mug for the soap. Money being tight I used soap scraps in it. Safety razor blades became hard to find and I switched to cheap disposables and it has worked well enough since my Navy days.
But that shaving set does look nice!
I use a safety razor and take 3 passes. The first is with the grain, the second is across it and the third is against it. The final pass make it as smooth as possible, but the first two take off most of the beard so the “against the grain” pass isn’t as much of a shock to my skin.
I use “real” shaving cream (the same stuff that’s shown in the picture of this kit) not the compressed chemical stuff you buy at the drug store. I lather it with a badger brush and keep it warm, which also really helps lubricate my shave.
Takes a little longer, but it’s a relaxing process for me.
Shave in the shower with hot water running – I find there is no substitute for keeping my face moist for a closer, more comfortable shave.
First, set aside a couple extra minutes to do the shave right. I make myself get up earlier to have my devotions and then shower and have time for a GOOD shave to start the day fresh mentally and physically. That extra few minutes of quiet time will help you face the day better.
why just safety razors? is AoM against the classic straight razor?
Every time you shave make sure you have a smoking hot chic in the shower while you are shaving. It will make your shaving routine much more pleasant,
My tip is to wait at least five minutes after shaving before putting on your outer shirt; it can easily save you from getting blood from unnoticed cuts on your collar.
About 3 weeks ago I started shaving with a strait razor, none of this safety razor nonsense.
The greatest tip I can offer is to try and treat shaving like a hobby, not a chore. You’ll not only enjoy yourself more, but you’ll also get a better shave as well. Take your time and research everything you can about your equipment, take your time and get to know your face and its curves.
Trust me, you’ll begin to love to shave!
Never agree to participate in Novembeard.com — It basically assured zero kissing, or anything else for that matter, from my girlfriend for an entire month. Great choice, eh?
Always make sure you are properly awake before starting…….
I’m only 19 and haven’t been shaving as much as some of these men. However, I have ridiculous facial hair genes in my family, so getting rid of all that stubble is a constant problem for me. Many of these tips I think I’ll now use.
Here’s my best advice
1. shave often- nothing hurts more than trying to shave once the hair has gotten too long. If you do wait a long time before that next shave, use some clippers to trim it down first.
2. Take at least two passes. First pass strictly with the grain. Then lather up again and hit everything a second time.
I just started using a DE razor about a week ago. This is so much fun and is making shaving enjoyable. I’ve always dispised shaving until I found DE razor and wet shaving.
Steve
While I usually shave in the shower, my favorite tip is the ’sink shave’.
Fill the sink with very warm water. I like to add a splash of Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint Oil Soap for a refreshing fragrance. (If you are using canned shaving creme, use hot water and let the can sit in the water until it cools a bit.)
Soak a wash cloth in the water and hold it to your face for a while to warm your face and soften your beard. I especially like this on chilly mornings or when I am tired or stressed.
Whisk up some lather using warm water, and apply liberally to the face, massaging it into the hairs and skin.
Shave with short strokes, moving with the grain, rinsing well between strokes.
If your skin tolerates it and it is a ‘close shave’ kind of day, re-lather and shave again against the grain, but I generally only do it when there is a good reason.
Use the wet washcloth to wipe most of the residue from your face, drain the sink, and rinse with cold water. Rinse the razor in the cold water and put away in a way that lets it quickly dry.
Splash some cold water on your face for a final cleaning, and pat dry. Treat any wounds. Apply a splash of after-shave or lotion.
Take a shower before the shave. It softens up the hair and makes it easier to shave.
Nothing new, but I can vouch for several previously mentioned tips:
1. Shave in the shower. The steam really softens the beard.
2. A little conditioner applied to the beard a few minutes before shaving can really soften it, too.
3. Don’t dry your face after shaving, just apply a little aftershave and let it airdry. Skin needs all the moisture it can get.
As someone who loves keeping themselves clean and trim, I like to take a good long time when I shave. Of course, whenever I’m craving a good shave, my time is usually pretty limited, but there are ways around that.
The razor: whatever kind you use, I’ve found there are some benefits to both keeping the blade cool as well as hot. A cold razor does make it less likely to cut yourself, but the feeling of a hot blade across your face and through that stubble is soothing and usually makes for a closer shave. I prefer the latter, since with enough practice you can keep the cuts to a minimum. I don’t remember the last time I cut myself shaving. I think it was high school.
Get to know your face. What I mean by this is shave at least a few times with no time limit in place, and really see how hard you can comfortably press the razor against your skin, since this is different for every person. In my opinion you should always leave a lot of time to shave, it’ll definitely come out better this way.
It’s been mentioned before, but try not to make long strokes. Smaller strokes help you avoid cuts and get a closer shave. I would also recommend shaving against the grain (up or to the side) for those hard to reach spots, or, once you “get to know your face”, for all of your face. Shaving upwards will give you a significantly closer shave, although there is a slightly greater chance of cutting yourself. Whenever I shave against the grain it gives me up to a day before I have to shave again, which allows me to take my time shaving more often.
Other than that, get yourself some good Charlie “Bird” Parker playing in the background, or (although I prefer the Bird) Dizzy Gillespie. It’s the perfect way to change shaving from a chore to a fun activity. Just don’t get too into the music or you might cut your lip off. If you don’t know who either of those musicians are, you need to spend quite a lot of time on this website.
Happy shaving!
My father always said the reason Dick Clark looked so young, was because he never put a razor to his face. My father also explained that a guy that has to get up n go to work everyday, may not have the time or resources to get Dick Clarks magic beans for hair removal and long lasting youth, but that’s no reason he can’t accommodate himself with some basic pleasures. Like, If you’ve got a good barber, treat yourself every now & then to a professional shave, but for the everyday a sharp blade, hot water, badger brush and a mug of shaving soap was all that was required.
So, the only thing I care to add to Pop’s standard tools, is a dime size dot of good olive oil, and finish with cold water.
Shower, or splash on some hot water, pat dry, and massage a tiny bit of oil on your beard before you apply the lather. Shave (Properly, taking your time, feeling with your fingers for spots you missed) then rinse your face again with hot hot water. Then a last few rinses with cold cold water. Pat your face dry- never rub. Apply some after shave, and I guarantee- your face will be as smooth as glass.
The best way I’ve found to get a smooth, clean shave is by following the old adage, “hot on the face, cold on the blade.” Lather up and shave with the grain. Then lather up a second time and shave against it. Smooth as a baby’s bottom.
Another tip I’ve found works is, if you’re short on shaving cream, use smooth peanut butter. But I’d advise against it if your wife or girlfriend is allergic to peanuts. Doesn’t actually smell too great either… but it makes for a clean shave!
@Nick – a week or two depends on the individual. Myself, 3 days is it 4 and i need to use the electric clippers.
Cold water. Shave with cold water. Contacts the metal, sharper blade.
Don’t shave too often or it will irritate.
I apply Old Spice After Shave when I get up.
In the 30 or so minutes that I spend making breakfast for my kids, getting the paper, etc, before I shower and shave, the Old Spice softens my beard, makes my face less oily, and keeps me smelling good for when the lady of the house gets up.
I apply Old Spice After Shave when I get out of bed.
In the 30 or so minutes that I spend making breakfast for my kids, getting the paper, etc, before I shower and shave, the Old Spice softens my beard, makes my face less oily, and keeps me smelling good for when the lady of the house gets up.
First brush your teeth, shave, and then get a shower is the best order in the morning.
Brushing your teeth first versus shaving first prevents you from getting any shaving cream in your mouth that you may have missed wiping off. Letting the hot water run slowly while you brush will get it warm enough for when you are ready to shave. The warm water you use while shaving will soften the hair and make for a better shave. And lastly, most homes have a common hot water pipe that connects the bathroom to the hot water heater. So when your ready to jump in the shower you’ve have nearly instant hot water which will save you time. Showering last has the added benefit of washing away any last trace of toothpaste or shaving cream.
When trimming sideburns, I prefer to wet the hair, comb it forward and trim with scissors down the front, repeat wetting, comb back and repreat trimming. This gives a cleaner, more dialed look.
I don’t have anything unique, but I shave in the shower, as hot as I can take it. . . . love it.
Many find it surprising that I don’t use any kind of shaveing soap, shaving cream, paste, or anything. Just hot water and a razor. Works for me!
I always put a hot wash cloth on my face for a few minutes before the shave. I apply a nice thick lather of shaving cream. My Grandfather always told me that you MUST lather the face up good. I always use the double edge safety razor….there is nothing like it. Stretch the sking with one hand and pull the razor down your face, nice and smooth. Always use downward strokes. Take it slow and easy and enjoy the shave!!!
The best tip I can share is water temperature. It’s unique for everyone – don’t listen to what works for others, pay attention to what your face responds to. Some use cold, other hot, the secret is finding the right middle ground for your face. I wasn’t quite happy with my shave until I figured it out.
I’m a young DE Shaver who still gets pimples. I find that if you have a pimple here or there, don’t shave over it! It will irritate it and cause it to get redder and more pronounced. I try to shave around it, and being young, sometimes I can go a day or two without shaving.
Also, learn the direction the grain of your beard goes as it’s not all in one uniform direction, make a map, and NEVER shave against the grain unless you know the map by heart. I read this tip from a book, LeisureGuy’s Guide to Gourmet Shaving (I posted the amazon link in the website option).
the hotter, the better (water, lather, you name it)
I always shave after a shower, or at least a vigorous face scrub. Your beard must be wet.
Give your beard enough time to grow… for me a day and a half, so that your razor has something to grab.
A trick I picked up from my wife: conditioner, rather than soap, makes for a terrific shave. It’s one drawback is that it isn’t sudsy; the visual in the mirror is less impressive.
Finally, get your son a toy shaving set. Spend some time together on the finer details. Gus, age 3, always enjoys shaving with me, and I never regret the extra few minutes. When you get older you can do this in the locker room.
Teach your partner how to give the perfect double brushed, hot cloth wrap, face massage shave… Sit back, relax, enjoy.
There isn’t a lot I can add, other than a good mug and brush shave is tons better than the stuff you can get in a can. You choose the consistency, level of warmth, and lather away!
The best finish to a good wet shave is the following:
1. Rinse face with warm water.
2. Apply good quality shave balm to entire area shaved.
3. Apply wringed out towel that has been sitting in an ice water bath to face- Similar to hot towel at start.
4. Apply second coat of balm.
It leaves you with the softest skin without irritation.
Lots of good comments/tips… I always shave after I get out of the shower. A double-edge razor will give the closest shave, bar none. Hard to find blades, but the ‘feather’ brand are great.
take a good hot shower first, and use a conditioner on that scrub to get it good and softend first before you start to mow it down. it makes it easier if you got the thick steel brush type of hair
Hot shower, wash face..
Shave after getting out
Badger brush, lather it up.
Shave with the grain, then against.
Repeat daily..
Shaving with a safety razor has always been a tip of mine to friends. Personally I use an original 1920s Gem Safety Razor. I found it at an antique shop for $20. The Gem Company still makes the blades too! So the trick to a good shave! If you have time, most men don’t. Run a wash cloth under hot water, steaming hot, the hotter the better. Then place this hot wash coth on your face, the heat will draw out the hairs a bit. Then shave with a single blade. Multiple blades foul too easy, causing cuts. Perferable a safety razor! When rinsing your blade use cold water. If you rinse with hot water it make the metal expand, causing cuts. Simple as that….oh, one other thing. What if you cut yourself? Thats why you always shave before a shower. The heat from the shower will stop the bleeding and it makes for easy clean up. Good luck gentlemen!
Cheers!
Hot water is the most important thing. It gives you a much closer shave.
My tip for shaving…
I have found that the longer time spent with the lather, the more enjoyable the shave is. If you don’t spend anytime whipping up the lather, it will dry soon after you put it on your face. Which brings me to another point, slap the lather on your face one area at a time, so if you want to go slow, it does not dry.
Shaving right after a nice hot shower seems to relax the face and soften the hair a little bit. One mistake is to shave, then take a hot shower, and then apply aftershave following the hot shower. For some reason it stings like crazy, and I can only assume it’s the steam opening the pores and letting the alcohol in.
Take a shower first, let the skin soak in the moisture and THEN shave. If you shave before you shower, you will have to ‘wake up’ your hair follicles with a wet towel or water.
I always use my beard trimmer to cut the hair down to the bare minimum and then lather up and shave that baby clean, i do this before a shower so i can rinse all the crap off my face, I’ve shaved before and after a shower and I still cant see the difference, its just a lot easier to do it before hand.
Personally, I find that I get a closer shave with less irritation if I shave before I wash my face or get into the shower, rather than after. I think that it reduces irritation because my skin is not puffy and my pores are tighter, allowing less debris to interfere with my pores and causing fewer nicks because any bumps on the skin are not as pronounced. I wet my beard and neck with cold water prior to the lather to entice follicles to stand up, but the basic rule of thumb is: No exposure to heat or hot water prior to the shave.
This seems to go against the conventional thoughts above me, like the hot towel approach, but it works for me. From my perspective, it is in line with the “pat, don’t wipe dry,” and the “splash face with cold water after a shave” concepts, which are basically aimed at reducing irritation and blemishes by keeping pores tight and closed, and not rubbing debris into them.
Additionally, I used to just shave in the direction that was most comfortable for my hands and arm to draw the blade. Huge mistake. If you still do this, go with the advice of everyone who has tried it: follow the grain for crying out loud.
Tip #1 Go Slow! Rushing just leads to a sloppy and bloody shave… no good.
Tip #2 Go with a good cream with some oils into it and really work it into your beard before you start… it make both your task and the razor’s task go easier. Avoid the canned foams. As it has been said before a good mug/brush/lather combo with some oils works best.
I feel embarrassed to share this because this post is all about ye olde shave, but I get miles of shaving out of a disposable four-bladed razor. It is pretty pricey, but proper care of the blades can keep one disposable head shaving for a month or more, depending on how often one shaves themselves. Olive oil will help keep the blades sharp and cleaned. Rinse well, dab on some EVOO and the the cost of shaving will drop quickly.
That said, if one wanted to send me such a magnificent set of shaving equipment as that pictured above, I’d consider changing my ways…
Best tip: do it in the shower or sauna! Living in Japan, it’s fairly common to see Japanese guys at the gym to take their shaving kit into the sauna and do it there! I’m not sure how this would be received in an American or English sauna though. Never shave with cold water!
Also, I have recently taken to using my partners strange little plastic brush thing to lather up better – it’s a little difficult to describe and I have no idea what’s it’s supposed to actually be used, but it’s got lots of little soft rubber tips. Using that also means I end up using less foam – I used to just spray the stuff liberally everywhere, now I actually take the time to work it around my face.
Many of you have mentioned that shaving in or after a shower works best and I agree with that partly because of what you’ve all said about softening the beard. I read something many years ago that adds a second reason for shaving after a shower, and that’s TIME. I’m not a “follicle engineer” or anything, but I believe that your facial hair has a growth spurt within the first 30 minutes or so after you wake up. Your body is getting going in the morning and so’s your beard. If you have been in the practice of shaving shortly after you wake up, you’ll find that your “five O’Clock shadow” will appear earlier in the day for your particular beard-growth-speed than if you wait approximately 30 minutes to shave. It’s different for everyone, of course, but I did notice a difference when I first started this practice many years ago.
@M. Roach – Try and put some talc on after your initial aftershave lotion is absorbed into your skin if you want a more refreshing feel. Works for me! (use your favorite aftershave…you gotta watch because some aftershaves leave residue on the skin when mixed with talc)
Got an important date or job interview, shave the night before to avoid unsightly cuts and razor rash.
These contests are always a great way to increase the number of comments an article receives! LOL! Ok, so might I suggest that the best way to get the perfect shave is to go to a professional barber and have him shave you properly?! After all would you try to cut your own hair?
I suppose I’ll add a hint for anyone who does shave with an electric (gasp!) razor, I have for quite some time. I tried switching a year back or so to one of the new-fangled, fancy disposables, but it just ended up giving me ingrown hairs and bumps. Perhaps I should have jumped to the DE safety razor?
Anyway, here goes:
* DO NOT shave AFTER a shower with an electric razor; I’ve found that causes the screens to not want to glide across the skin, causing serious irritation.
* If you do use the pre-electric shave, it will seriously dry out your skin. Counter with a good, moisturizing aftershave, followed by a lotion after the aftershave has dried.
* If I want a particularly close shave, I will shave once the night before, and once the day of.
* A hand check is a must with an electric shave, as the razor will leave stubble behind that can confuse the process of a visual check for strays.
* Spend the $20 or so a few times a year to replace the heads/screens and cutters, your face will thank you.
I’ll have to try the DE Safety razor the next time I visit my folks’ place, I know they have a few oldies sitting around there. I will pick up fresh shaving soap and blades though…
My tip: don’t shave with a cheap/old/not fully charged electric razor.
as obvious as it is i find myself doing it far too often cause i need to shave and am in a hurry (or dont feel like waiting). I’ve been looking to move on to bigger and better shaving techniques and this is the kit i need to do just that! I really hope i get it.
btw: amazing site, i get the RSS feed and read all the posts.
The best tips are the simplest, and there’s some great ones above.
And now for my tip: no matter what, only ever use a downwards motion – never shave upwards. It’ll shave just as close and helps prevent razer burn.
That, and use a eucalyptus oil on your skin afterwards (not after shave), it’ll feel loads better.
Oh and shave first thing in the morning, your skin swells ever so slightly as the day goes on so if you shave at night you’ll have stubble by the morning
I had a professional wet shave in Harrods and one of the barbers there told me that the best shave has four stages;
1. Shower or steam up your bathroom so that your hair is damp, soft and hot
2. Wash your face with soap and apply a pre-shave oil (if you don’t have any oils, don’t be tempted to moisturise)
3. Make sure the razor (wet shave) is sharp – a lot of safety razors come with colourful indicators now but the barber used a cut-throat razor and it’s always sharp! Use the blade like your sketching a drawing with a pencil and always go with the grain – you can feel this by rubbing your fingers over the hair first. This also helps it to stand up for the cut.
4. Wash with alcohol-free face wash – not scrub – and apply a small dab of post-shave balm. It’s a fallacy to think that this shouldn’t have alcohol in it – it does dry the skin a little but the moisturiser in it will compensate and you shouldn’t feel in pain – just a fresh, tingling sensation.
Pretty straight-forward, I think, and something I’ve stuck to for over 10 years.
Free safety razor set?! That would be a very merry christmas! Although I’ve always wanted to try a straight razor… My tip: Shave in the shower. Saves time, water and your face is all softened up already. Easier cleanup too. I even have a small heated mirror in the shower that won’t fog up. found it online. Happy scraping!
Be sure not to skimp on the time you spend applying lather. Working the lather into your beard/stubble will help lift and moisturize it which will make shaving easier, smoother and less irritating
Throw away the electric razor and the cheap disposables. Take the time and effort to learn to wet shave with a quality blade. You’ll feel like a different man.
This would make a really great Xmas gift for my Father.
I recommend getting a good shave oil and putting it on your face a minute or two before applying the shaving creme. This seems to help keep the skin and stubble moisturized and makes for a much cleaner shave with less irritation.
I’m in! Awesome giveaway.
This simple method works for me whether I’m in a hurry or not.
1. Hot shower or hold some hot water in your hands and dip your face in it.
2. You can use shaving cream or just keep wetting your face with warm water.
3. Shave two times with the grain gently so to not aggravate the skin.
4. Now shave against the grain with small strokes, rub/pull your skin a bit to get the stubs up and pass the blade about 2 to 3 times, only as much to ensure you get a smooth surface.
5. Wash your face with some soap, important to not leave dirt behind from your hands or the blade while your pores are open.
6. Moisturize with lotion.
Enjoy the smooth and clean skin for the next few days!
I discovered a french line called Proraso, it made miracles for me. Their products contain eucalyptus oil so when you apply it you feel the freshness and then there is the aloe that smoothens the skin. The pre-shaving cream when applied prevents pimples and shave burns. And they even have an old-school shaving cream for use with a badger.
Sorry for the english.
Cheers and happy holidays.
Wow, such good advice. I think its time for me to ditch my electric razor.
I liked that tip about a professional shave. From early years in a barber shop I’ve been fond of the Tabac scent. I have found a Greek olive soap that has the Tabac scent. It has that manly aroma without being perfume-y.
Don’t, don’t, don’t use an electric. All they give is irritation and a horrible shave.
There has been so much good stuff said I don’t have much to add, my tip is to keep the sideburns even. Line up with a feature on your face (a part of your ear works well) and line up your razor with that feature to set the bottom of the sideburn, repeat on the opposite side. The ‘burns will be even on your face and look right.
I would LOVE to win that shaving kit, just so you know.
My tip is to use glycerin soap on your face in the shower. It really softens up the beard!
Best Shaving tip? Two biggies for me:
1. Go slow. Short strokes prevent irritation and nicks for me.
2. Brush/Lather. Switching to shaving soap with a badger brush was a revelation.
If new to DE shaving, don’t give into the habit of changing your gear daily. Choose one set-up and stick with it. This will allow you to work on your technique. When you have it down then the acquisition orders do their thing.
For people that don’t have to time to shower before a shave, put a little olive oil (if you’re cheap) or Proraso pre-shave on your face to soften the whiskers after washing your face with hot water for about a minute. Then face-lather for 2 minutes with your brush and proceed to shave. I haven’t needed to use the hot towel method or anything else to compensate for the lack of showering before the shave!
I shave in the shower to save time. The warm water and soap soften up the beard. A mirror is not always necessary. I can shave without one if I am traveling. I usually use one of those multi-blade shavers.
In addition to the basic wet shaving tips in the post (in fact, I have almost exactly the same gear):
1. Once you apply the brush into the cream, give it one rapid pass under the hot water to make sure the lather is warm. Tap it once or twice to rid the bristles of excess water (not too much or you’ll lose the lather) and go for it.
2. Don’t be afraid to look silly. My moustache area grows right up to the lower edge of my nose, and I have a decently-sized nose, so in order to have a smooth appearance for my entire upper lip, I have to literally hold my nose out of the way. It’s worth it to make sure I’ve gotten everything.
Make sure your face is well ready so after a shower or applying hot water through a towels a good idea.
Not to much shaving cream, be sure to take your time and pas over and area and sometimes Up and Down works quite well for the neck area
Have fun choose your style but no Hitlers their not funny
and Most of all relax and enjoy take time to apreciated a job well done
When I craft my facial hair I use my ears, eyes and nose to ensure even beard lines. Drawing imaginary lines from fixed positions works much better then simply eyeballing the process.
Put some hot water on top of your bowl of soap and let it sit while you shower. When you are ready reserve the soapy liquid in another conatiner, I use the small silver bowl at the base of my brush stand. Then as needed while you charge the brush dip it into the reserved soapy goodness while you build your lather.
Waste not want not.
It may seem like it takes more time to shave right, but if you setup a schedule it makes it easy. For me I use.
Aftershave gel
1) Shower
2) Mix and Apply shaving soap
[I keep ending up with either too much, too little or a bad ratio until I started to measure. For me 1.5 tablespoons of hot water, plus about 2mm longer than the height of the proraso cap of proraso. Works everytime.]
3) Brush teeth
4) Shave with grain
5) Shave across grain
6) Shave across (other) grain
[True it doesn't get as smooth without the against grain, but it pretty good and with zero irritation]
7) Rinse with cold water
One nice bonus with this is that I don’t need to towel off after the shower. By the time I finish shaving I’ve been air-dried. Really cuts down on my laundry.
The most important shaving advice I ever received (from the kindly folks over at the badger and blade) was to never stop trying. I learned to use a straight in the course of a few weeks, and it was all owed to the fact that I never stopped trying. It’s going to be hard, but it’s also totally worth it.
Replace your blade regularly. Nothing is worse than a dull blade!!
change your blade regularly. nothing is worse than a dull blade!!
Take your TIME, don’t rush things. Take it slow for the first few weeks.
Get good shaving soap or cream. I suggest Taylor of bond street or Truefitt & Hill.
Besides using good products to insure a close shave I’ve noticed the best thing to do is shave after I shower. This softens up my beard and makes for a much more comfortable shave.
The single best best thing I have found is to put shaving cream or soap on your face BEFORE you shave and leave it there for a while.
I put cream on my face and then brush my teeth. After the 2 minutes of brushing, I prepare and shave as normal with the lather goes right on top of the stuff you put first – your shave will be super smooth, easy and you shouldn’t get any cuts or nicks.
Well, I like to use lush conditioner bars in place of shaving soap. But I’m not shaving my face, so take that with a grain of salt.
I have got to say that I only shave with the grain, 3 times a week with the blade and the rest of the time with an electirc, Warm on the face at first and rinse with cool water afterwards. And keep the styptic pencil handy.
I highly recommend the double razor in the prize pack. This razor is great for shaving around the edges. An old straight razor is good for sculpting once you get the hang of it, but it is difficult to keep sharp.
My shaving tip is The Method Pre-Shave Oil. Before wetting or lathering I place this smooth Sunflower Oil based shaving oil on my chin and get a closer shave and much more comfortable.
Before I shave, I wash my face in hot water…and scrub with a loofah and soap.
It sounds silly, I know, but my shave – even if I use a bargain basement disposable (which I did once…and ran away) – is very close and smooth; so much so, that I could shave every other day, if needed.
A simple twin-blade disposable razor and a steamy shower is the best solution I’ve found. No soap, no foam, just the water and whatever lubricating strip is on the razor.
I tend to nick myself more when standing in front of a mirror and using shaving cream / gel. I think it’s because I use my fingers as a guide when in the shower, and take more time so as not to lop off a digit.
Some good tips here.
My best tip is for on the road. When you’ve forgotten your shaving cream and don’t want to use the hotel soap, use the Conditioner from the hotel. It works better for shaving than the shampoo, and lets the blade glide smoothly across your face while lifting and er… conditioning your beard (couldn’t help that one).
Also, I dry my razor by wiping it away from the blade on a dry towel.
Scalp shaving takes more time and seems to work best after showering.
The best tip I can think of that hasn’t already been posted is to pay careful attention around the “crevice” areas of your face — for me, this is the 1/8 of an inch right under the base of my nose, and the corners of my mouth. Miss one of these and you’ll be able to feel the stubble all day, and it will drive you mad.
The best way to get the corners of your mouth is to scrunch up your mouth like the “Church Lady” from SNL. Another way to illustrate this is to watch any Three Stooges short where they disguise themselves as barbers — inevitably one will say to a customer, “Here, make like this” and do the scrunch perfectly.
For pre-shave prep., I use an unwanted shaving cream. Use the shaving cream like a face wash (just leave it on a little longer).
I have a L’Occitane Cade shaving cream which sucks for shaving but works pretty well as a pre shave.
If you’re interested in the smoothest, closest shave ever, then the best shave tip can be expressed in one word: Proraso.
I have found that a little bit of corn huskers lotion afterwards is extremely helpful. It is gentle on the skin and contains no alcohol to burn your face at a time when alcohol is the last thing you need on it!
… says to self, “I want to win I want to win there IS a Santa Claus!)
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!
Dave
My shaving tip:
Wipe the mirror after you pour the hot water, or else…
If you want to know anything about shaving, and I mean anything, you’ve got to check out Badger and Blade:
http://www.badgerandblade.com/
It’s the best shaving site on the web.
No shaving tips…but I’ve never shaved w/ a straight edge or Safety Razor so this would be very cool to have!
completely drying the blade of the razor after each use will extend life of the blade and provides a cleaner, smoother, shave
Prep! Prep! Prep!
Beard preparation is perhaps the most important item for successful wet shaving. This holds true for guys who use DEs, straights, or even cartridges, with anything from the highest $ soaps and creams to the $1 canned goo from the drug store. A better prep will give you a better shave.
Start with either some of your lather, or rub your shave soa/shave stick/shave cream on your face and then massage it into your skin. Wait a few minutes and either rinse multiple times with lots of hot water, or use a hot towel for 3-5 minutes (re-heat as needed) to soften the hairs. Then re-lather and shave.
Rub your face and whiskers with a small amount of the shaving cream, kind of gives a facial massage and helps the whiskers stand up. After, apply Witch Hazel to get rid of any razor burn,
Make a killer Superlather by mixing soaps and creams.
Eddie
I have no tips. I obviously suck at shaving because my neck is always broken out. Any tips would be appreciated. Otherwise I may have to drop over $100 to try to cure it.
@Clark – You might be accidentally going against the grain. Hair on the neck does not necessarily grow in a uniform direction. Figure out how to shave WITH the grain first, and see if that helps. ALso, shave in shorter strokes and keep your razor clean. A clogged razor pulls and drags hair instead of cutting it, aggravating the pore and causing redness.
I shave in the shower. Its the last thing I do, so I get the benefit of the hot steam.
Everyone tends to forget that Your Mileage May Very (YMMV).
After shaving most people know that you should rinse with hot water (to remove residue) then rinse with cold water (to close pores).
YMMV!
Since I have sensitive skin I rinse with just warm water and then use only cool water to help close my pores. When I first started Double Edge shaving I used Hot/Cold water. As a result my face would be flushed red after I was done. My girl friend was concerned about what had gone wrong while I was shaving!
I feel that the best is preperation for a true DE shave. Not only do you need quality to have a well moistened beard, you also need to know what you’re doing. I’ve easily spent 3 hours watching videos on Badger and Blade…. and all have made a marked difference in the shave. Keep the beard wet, hot, and well informed!
@Clark –
I used to have the same problem…what I found worked best was to get a proper safety razor, make sure that your neck is as wet and warm as possible (try a warm towel, or shave after a shower). Get a good lather going (have a look at the videos by Mantic on lathering on YouTube), then when you shave, use as little pressure as possible. I would recommend just a single pass the first time you try, to get your neck used to it (you’ll probably still have some stubble, and may nick yourself). Leave it a day or two then try again, adding a cross-grain pass. Keep this up until you’re ready for an against-grain pass as well, and you’re home free.
One last thing – remember, you’re not scraping the hair off, use the blade like a scythe and cut through that stubble – you shouldn’t need any pressure at all doing it this way.
Good luck!
When using a classic Twist To Open Razor, such as a Gillette Superspeed, Weishi, or Parker, you can adjust the aggressiveness slightly by fiddling with the tightening screw a bit.
I find that around the moustache, opening it up ever so slightly gets me a micron closer.
Another option is to get an adjustable
Without looking at all the awesome tips, mine is always always always use a hot, steaming hot washcloth to soften it all up.
A set of sharp, pointed tweezers (such as those available by Cross Brand) should be in every man’s shaving kit. Razor bumps often appear after shaving when small curved hairs grow back into the skin or pores. After shaving, give yourself a quick once over and make sure that no such hairs are left on your neck. They often are just slightly longer than the others and may have grown back into the skin where your razor can’t get to them. To solve this, simply drag the tip of the tweezers across the hair (perpenticularly) to free up one end and then pluck being sure to grab the hair as close to the skin as possible.
This little tip can really save your neck (pun intended) especially if you have to shave in a hurry or with a dull blade every so often.
Cheers.
JPF
I don’t really shave all too often… maybe 2-3 times a week. And my beard is fairly sparse. So, I just shave in the shower with plain soap! I lather up my face and shave whatever whiskers I may have away.
Pretty sad, I know.
I searched out and old safety razor and the kit from a local store after reading your AOM article on the subject. You got me hooked. Now a new and not $5 kit would feel so much better than the cheap set I had to settle for. Great work, keep it up.
There’s one big tip I need to share, always shave slowly, and if the area doesn’t have lather on it, don’t shave it. Even if it’s a tiny patch that you didn’t quite get last pass, relather before you go back over it.
I have a mustache goatee combo type beard sometimes referred to as a VanDyke. I find that if I measure my face in multiples of the width of the razor I can keep things nice and even.
Eg. the distance from my side burns to my beard is 2 razor widths. The width of the sideburns is 3/4ths of a razor width.
Not to revolutionary but most every possible tip has been covered!
dry off your wet razor before putting it away. just a little dab on a towel will do.
start by shaving the easy parts of your face. let the shaving cream take effect longer on the harder to shave parts.
My best advice for doing a good shave is to take your time. Most cuts that i have had was when I was in a hurry before i left for work. I recommend setting some time aside in the morning for your shave. If you know you need to shave the night before then wake an extra 15 minutes.
I work with several people with allergies to many fragrances. I use aloe vera after shaving to keep my skin healthy since most after-shaves contain fragrances.
Exceptional blog—thanks.
I love the smell of Williams Mug Soap, but I could never get a good lather from it until I tried this: fill your mug up to the top of the puck with your hottest tap water. Let it stand there for just a minute or two. Before working up your lather, pour all the water out of the mug, and use a brush full of hot water to whip up a decent lather.
This tip is good for cheapskates like me who don’t want to pay for expensive soaps and creams, and who love the smell of Williams.
Slow and steady.
Forget a shaving cream bowl to create a lather. I found that going straight to your face with the soap filled brush works just as well. It also saves time by having yet one less thing to clean each morning.
If using a non-safety razor (ie Mach3 etc.) thoroughly dry the razor between shaves to keep it sharper longer. It’s been said that microscopic pieces of rust form and that’s what leads to cuts.
Try it, it works!
i love this. i want one now
I may have overlooked it in the very long list of replies but – without a doubt the saving grace, Williams’ Lectric Shave.
[image: http://4imgs.com/313/x/22151_FULL.jpg ]
127 years ago, I used this back in college with my electric razor and figured it may work for razor-shaves. It is great. The razor glides on your face like it is on ice. Aaaaaah.
For beard-wearers, trim daily. I use a set of hair-cutting shears sourced from Sally Beauty that were about $25.00 to my recollection. These shears make short work of beard trimming.
If you have never tried wet shaving it is amazing the difference it can make. My skin feels and looks so much better and it is rather manly picking up a metal razor with an actual razor blade to shave every morning.
The best shaving advice I can give is check out http://badgerandblade.com/ the amount of experience and knowledge about shaving on this forum is amazing. Not to mention there are a lot of really standup guys who go out of their way to help new people.
I’ve found that I get the best results when I go one round with lather and razor, pat my face dry and repeat a second time, works great for my personal trouble area under my jawline.
For a truly rewarding post-shave treatment, I offer the best post-shave treatment I have found:
COCOA BUTTER.
I use the stick form. I apply it sparingly immediately after shaving (don’t dry), and then massage/spread in with my fingers. On cold or extra dry days, I might apply it a second time after dressing.
Cocoa butter locks in moisture, provides nutrients (including antioxidants), and helps elasticise the skin. Its soothing skin-healing properties will keep you looking glowing and youthful far beyond your actual youth.
Remember, a man takes care of what he has. So consider using cocoa butter to take care of your one and only face.
Most of the major points have been stated several times…but one that’s worth stating slightly differently is take a day or two off every week. I have to shave for work, and by Friday, I feel like the skin on my face is….well, razor thin.
Weekends should be a break from as much of your weekly routines as possible, and shaving is no exception on my end. No shaving Saturday or Sunday–gives my skin a break, and allows a much closer shave on Monday than what I got on Friday. You’ll look extra sharp when you come into work Monday morning, when looking sharp is most likely to be in short supply at your workplace. And isn’t looking sharp the whole idea?
Map your stubble before you go a-hacking. Take your fingers and run them all around your face, and then back again, taking note of which direction the hair seems rougher. That’s against the grain. Note that this direction can vary greatly from inch to inch around the ol’ mug, and you don’t want to start off shaving against the grain anywhere. That’s a sure way of getting razor burn.
I switched to a higher quality shaving cream, move the razor only in a perfectly straight line, and re-lather from the brush between every pass — and it has made an enormous difference in reducing the time to shave and simultaneously reducing the number of cuts i get.
Shaving advice? Disposables never worked for me, so I’ve been using an electric for a long time.
I’d love to try a wet shave, sign me up!
K
Don’t forget to add more water while creating your lather. The more you can get in there before it turns into bubble water the better.
I’m not sure how much of a tip this is, but it’s something I definitely do that makes my shaving life easier: Give your face a break! I don’t shave on weekends (unless my there’s a wedding, funeral, etc…). Shaving can be harsh on your face (especially if you don’t have the wonderful prize offered in this post) and I find that my Monday morning shaves are always my most pleasant.
Have the right attitude. Lock the wife and kids out and enjoy the shave. It’s the one time a day when a man can truly have time to himself.
Awww, guys. I agree whole heartedly about the wet shave, but come on. The only blade to use is a single edge razor. Proper preparation of your face (heat, oil, cream), a cool steady hand with a well kept and sharpened razor… nothing better. With practice, by far the smoothest shave. Just ask my wife. She can’t keep her hands off my baby-butt smooth cheeks after a morning shave. Though she does make me late for work several times every week. Oh well.
My best is just patience. Once you lather up, let it sit on your face for two-three minutes. The lather softens your beard further than shower steam alone will. Run the hilt of your brush quickly under the water and re-lather without getting more cream on the brush to re-wet the lather on your face. Works great.
I enjoy a nice splash of aftershave after shaving with a dull razor. Feel that pain!
Logan
Just pay attention to what you are doing. I wet shave when I have time, and use an electric when I don’t. If you pay attention to it you’ll be fine.
Hey, using a good ol fashioned bar of soap and an inexpensive soap shaving brush works well for me. I hate to give money to big corporations so that I can use their canned gummy shaving cream products that gunk up the cheap razors anyway. The Safety Razor looks like a good bet that I would put money on!
Well, that is about all I can say as i MUST get back to working on my cans for law school exam.
take your time, dont get in a hurry
Some great tips here. A few of mine are:
* In the UK (don’t know about the US) Palmolive shave sticks are a fave of mine. They cost pennies, can be found everywhere and being small are great for travel. Also bars of Palmolive soap are cheap (4 pack for a £1 in most places) and great for prepping your face. Rub and load a wet brush with soapy-goodness . Then either proceed to your shave cream/soap or scrub your face with the loaded brush to get rid of any dirt/dead skin before you shave.
* For shaving the back of my neck between visits to the hairdressers I use a hand/shave mirror (I have a plastic, plate-sized one), stand with my back to the bathroom mirror holding my hand mirror in my non-shaving hand, get my angles right and use an over-hand action and a south-to-north stroke.
* Not sure if they have them in the US but in the UK charity shops like Oxfam, British Heart Foundation etc…are great for finding makeshift shave bowls such as large coffee ’soup bowl’ mugs or ornamental bowls. My shave bowl is a gorgeous dark red ceramic bowl I found for 10 pence in an Oxfam shop.
Think of shaving less as a task to accomplish than a situation to temper. Before shaving, prepare yourself: wet your face with warm water; apply a hot towel, apply a pre-shave oil, then lather liberally. Shave with the grain, across the grain, across the grain in the opposite direction, and then shave against the grain (if necessary). Each pass shortens the hair follicles, causing less irritation and producing a closer shave. Once done shaving, wash your face with warm water (no soap), then wash again with cold water to close the pores. Then apply a non-alcoholic, rather simple after shave balm to help heal your skin. Wait a good 15 minutes, then apply a more preferred after shave product. Be sure to take equal care with the rest of your grooming.
I should add, I know the right way, but I want to try the brushes and razor. I use disposal Gillettes, Barbasol cream, Nivea after shave balm, then Bumper Stopper 2. No matter what I do, I always get razor burn/skin irritation of some sort. Bumper stopper 2 is the only cream that has worked the best for me.
When I was just a green recruit, we often heard the master sergeant tells a guy to “stand closer to the razor on the next shave”; yes, we used disposable plastic razors, cheap shaving cream and didn’t put much of thought on warm water, softening the edges and all that. One subject-matter between us was doing better under those lame conditions, resulting in “good advice” (shave against hair direction), “smart advice” (grow a beard) or “mal-advice” (say you have a skin condition and get rid of it!).
Only later have we learnt the secrets of good shaving, the better tools of doing it “right”, and the joy, pride and meaning of a well-shaved face.
Your campaign is well in place; young generation should know—there’s more to shaving than buzzing machines with techno-hype rotating blades, half-a-minute travel of the blade on your cheek, or two-days shaved-face appearance among people!
Consider shaving a manly art rather than a chore. Take your time and enjoy the process. Each shave job is a work of art, try to top your last shave in terms of care and quality. There’s no way to go wrong!
My best tip? follow the suggestions above! Go old school and you’ll never go wrong but learn to do it well. My tips are these, when it comes to shaving take your time and make time to do it right. Don’t rush. Next the ONLY way to shave is the Wet shave. Next You need absolutely NEED good quality tools to work with here. You wont fix your car with dollar store tools, why use them on your face?
I recommend a quality Badger hair brush, they usually aren’t cheep but they are worth the money. Razor! wow, I”m sick of spending tons of money for cheep blades and having to get a new one the next week. Spend the extra and get and learn to use a Safety razor, or even a good straight razor. Obviously this is a “skill”, it’s worth learning. If you can, find a true barber in your area, go ask for some tips, Barbers can shave, Hair dressers CAN’T… its in the licensing.
My shaving tip is really boring (and probably already stated in the litany of comments above), but it’s the only one for me: always shave after taking a hot shower. I have a pretty thick beard and I don’t use shaving cream. A hot shower, followed by a razor is the entirety of my shaving routine.
I always like a good shave
Shaving is typically the first thing I do immediately after getting out of the shower, to make sure the beard is moist. In addition, whenever I have a significant meeting, event, date, etc for which I want to look particularly well cut, I DON’T shave for several days before the event. This assures that all the hairs on your beard have grown to a shave-able length and will be cut down, and voila! a far smoother shave than you would get from a daily shave.
I’ve been working to get one of these for a while, but funds have been limited (being a student) for the start-up cost of wetshaving. However, I keep in mind that once purchased, it will be refreshingly cheap to shave from then on.
I usually lather up while in the shower, rubbing against the growth of the hair to get it to stand up. After the shower, while shaving, I reapply the shaving cream, and the hairs are already moisturized and more willing to cooperate.
The best tip is take your time, from the prep stage, all the way to applying the aftershave balm. This is your time to pamper yourself, so enjoy it. The second best tip is stay with it, your techique will improve and so will your shaves.
I forgot to mention, I shave in the evening. So if you are rushed in the morning, this is an option that works for many of us. Don’t be afraid to try it.
Warm everything is essential. Warm water, warm towel, warm shaving cream. EXCEPT the razor, which should be cold. Makes it more brittle, increases its ability to slice through the stubble.
Shaving in the shower works, but spend a few days a week getting the main stubble nice and even, or you’ll inevitably miss spots and look like a goon.
Also, properly lubricate, people!
Shave after shower, use a in shower face cleanser like King of Shaves. Warm towel on face, apply with brush direct to face (Prorasso in between is nice) shave slowly holdling lightly and clean razor in running water after each stroke. It’s simple.
AK
Always Take a hot shower before, the hotter the better. It makes it a nice and close shave.
I don’t get the cold razor thing. I shave each morning in the shower with plenty of warm water but when I use the razor cold it just doesn’t feel right. I always warm it up.
Matt
be fully awake and don’t rush. Washyour face with soap & water then rinse, finally wrap your face in a very hot towel for a minute ofr two before shaving.
I make sure to re-lather multiple times during my shave
Thrift shops will often have used safety razors for a few bucks. Why spend $65 when you can get one for $3?
Logan
I have a very thick beard, so I must shower first. I then require a fairly new blade that is extremely hot and shave with the grain. After, I go against the grain. Smooth as could be until about 3pm…
There are a lot of benefits to shaving with a blade, for example, you dont need to shave as much compared to an electric blade. I’m Italian, and it used to take only 15 minutes to have 5 o’clock shadow, then I switched to a blade. Now I get about 6 hours! Yay!
Rules:
Rule #1 – Do not use shaving supplies you can buy at a supermarket.
Rule #2 – DO NOT USE SHAVING SUPPLIES YOU CAN BUY AT A SUPERMARKET!!
Sorry for the Fight Club reference.
Tips:
First things first – clean your face with a non-soap based, exfoliating cleanser. Not only will it keep you looking good but it will reduce the chance of nicks while shaving.
Avoid using a shaving soap – use, instead, a shaving cream. Shaving soaps have a tendency to dry out your skin and make you prone to irritation.
Use a nice shave oil prior to lathering and shaving. I like oil with eucalyptus.
Try the Method Shave. It’s a comfortable and repeatable way to get a close shave.
When using a DE razor – don’t be afraid to change out the blade frequently. One of the great things about classic wet shaving is that it’s very cost effective.
I like an alcohol based after shave for two reasons – if helps disinfect you skin and helps close up pores and tighten skin; your milage may vary.
To whom ever wins the shave set: congratulations. I use the exact same setup and love it. I’m sure you will too.
A few tips (which may have been repeated by now):
Shaving in the shower helps soften your beard/stubble (hang a mirror), as does using hair conditioner before a shave.
Shave with the grain, then against. If you have sensitive skin, try with and then perpendicular to.
A friend of mine with *really* coarse hair insists he’s gotten the best results using a woman’s razor (after grabbing a girlfriend’s when he had to shave at her place). Contrary to that, I know plenty of girls who prefer a mach3 over lady razors.
Rinse and dry the blades after each use: this will keep them sharper than simply letting it air dry.
If using electric, use shaving cream with it: it’s amazing the difference in shave using it.
A few tips (which may have been repeated by now):
Shaving in the shower helps soften your beard/stubble (hang a mirror), as does using hair conditioner before a shave.
Exfoliate beforehand.
Shave with the grain, then against. If you have sensitive skin, try with and then perpendicular to.
A friend of mine with *really* coarse hair insists he’s gotten the best results using a woman’s razor (after grabbing a girlfriend’s when he had to shave at her place). Contrary to that, I know plenty of girls who prefer a mach3 over lady razors.
Rinse and dry the blades after each use: this will keep them sharper than simply letting it air dry.
If using electric, use shaving cream with it: it’s amazing the difference in shave using it.
I’m a sargent in the Israeli Army and I’m required to shave every morning but all I’m given is a crappy razor. It would really help if I could get hooked up with a shaving set!
Sargent Sam Besser
Not gonna lie, I got this one out of a Salinger novel.
When shaving, in order to avoid vanity, look yourself directly in the eyes in the mirror, using only your peripheral vision to shave. Not exactly easy, but with some practice, it can be one of the most manly experiences of your morning, if not your whole day.
Do Not fill the sink bowl with hot water and use it to rinse your razor as you shave.
A friend of mine in college used to do this and could not for the life of himself figure out how he kept getting infections on his face.
That basin of water is swimming with germs that will jump all over the open knicks on your face.
If you get lots of razor bumps or burn when shaving try and rub a bit of chap stick into your face. Then proceed with lather and the shave. The chap stick adds a nice layer of protection to the face.
My best shaving tip is to always use some sort of moisturizer prior to and after shaving. This act will allow your face to be soft and smooth and will allow the razor to slide smoothly aross your face. This lack of resistance will give you a more comfortable shave and closer shave with less bumps and cuts. Additionally it will allow your face to thwart off winter cold and dryness.
Following up with a salycitic (sp) acid product like Tend Skin goes a long way towards preventing unsightly ingrowns.
Never shave in the shower with a straight razor…if you drop it, you never know what it might hit on the way down.
I like to keep my razor, when not in use, in a small jar of baby oil. Having the blade and razor in oil will stop any oxidation. This will prolong the life of the blade and keep a coat of oil on it allowing it to glide on your face.
Hydrate! Stretch the skin with your off hand; and take your time. Especially if you’re using a straight razor.
Warmth to the face is key! Get your skin toasty warm with a hot towel first, or splash some warm water on it. Post-shower shaving is ideal. Also, I use pre-shave oil which really helps the blade skim across the skin.. good stuff!!
Jim
STIPTIC PENCIL. Don’t be afraid of the pain, Nancy.
try not shaving for a week. it will give you a new appreciation for what can become a tedious daily chore.
Not for us but for everyone else and our children’s children. Don’t let the water run while shaving. Run a little into the stoppered sink to rinse your razor as our grandfathers did. Water is a scarce commodity and needs to be treated as such. Thanks You will also enjoy the quieter shaving experience.
here is the trick i have found for a great shave:
1.) hot shower
2.) shaving oil
3.) quality shaving soap
4.) sharp razor
5.) shaving with the grain while stretching the skin
6.) cold water splash and then some quality balm (alcohol free)
using this method my shave is so good that i am still relatively smooth the next day. and i have a beard like a steel brush!
I have a beard and I shave my cheeks and neck to keep neat looking…
I recommend using rinse the face with hat water to open the pours and then use hot lather on cheeks and neck area and sharp blade to keep one self looking neat and presentable. Then follow up with a cool rinse and cologne of choice..
A good wet shave, HOT water, a good shaving soap, gel or cream and a sharp razor. I shave my neck area first, pulling the skin tight to get a clean shave and then the rest of my face. Rinse it all off with cool water to close the pores…..feels great.
Regarding the use of “witch hazel”. I buy the generic witch hazel at my local Rite-Aid for a nominal price, and not a fancy brand-name label witch hazel price. Poke a small hole in the inner foil liner, and you will be able dispense a small amount of hazel onto your hand to splash onto your face. This is after you have finsed off your face, finishing up with a cold water rinse and BLOTTING your face dry (do not rub). Enjoy!
I had terrible problems with facial breakout after shaving, but now I always finish up every shave with a glycerine soap wash. That cleared me right up and no stinky overbearing after shave needed. I used to find the glycerine bars at Bath and Body in their bargain bins, but now have found them at the body shop.
Comments on this entry are closed.