Shaving Tips That Work!

If you are one of the thousands of men out there that do not really know how to shave the right way, the following tips and advice might help you to get a closer, smoother, and less bloody shave without the unwanted side effects like razor bumps, ingrown hair, or razor burns.

Pre-Shaving Tips & Techniques

In order to prevent skin irritations that often come with shaving like razor bumps and burns or ingrown hairs, you should soften the hair before shaving for about two to three minutes before you actually start shaving. One of the best ways is to wet the hair with a hot towel for about 15 seconds before shaving. Another possibility is to shave after you took a shower. Always use a good razor blade that is sharp and wet.

In addition to that, we recommend using a good shaving cream or gel.
Shaving gels are important, not only in treating or preventing razor bumps, ingrown hairs and razor burns, but also because a good shaving gel will help to minimize the friction associated with shaving and moisturize your skin. While your skin is still wet, apply a shaving gel and wait a minute or two - then you can start shaving.

Shaving Direction & Skin Position

If your skin is likely to develop razor bumps, burns or ingrown hairs, you should try shaving with the grain, not against it. Shaving against the grain may get you a closer shave, but this can also cause razor bumps and other skin irritations. If you shave in the same direction your hair grows, your skin is less likely to become irritated. The objective is to angle the razor at 90 degrees. This shaving technique cuts the hair in an effortless fashion nipping the hairs at the grain and not against it. Shaving in the same direction, will also result in less pull on the hairs and less tendency to cut them too short. Hairs cut too short are at risk of curling into the skin causing razor bumps and ingrown hairs.

Avoid going over and over the same area as this may result in hairs cut too short and painful skin irritations. It is best to shave with just enough overlap to avoid skipping areas. Also long strokes should be avoided. Instead, use short strokes to avoid razor bumps and friction resulting in other skin inflammations. Shave with the skin in a neutral and relaxed position - don't stretch your skin too tight, as this may result in hairs being shaved below the resting surface of the skin, increasing the risk of ingrown hairs.

After-Shaving Tips

After shaving, apply an oil-free moisturizer that soothes and protects your face. If you prefer after-shave products, make sure you check the label for alcohol: dryness and stinging sensations are often side affects of most after-shave items with alcohol being their primary ingredient. Alcohol-based after-shaves are often another cause for irritating the skin if the alcohol level is too high.

Mentholated shaving products should be avoided as well. Although the cooling sensation feels good on the face once applied, menthol, just like alcohol, can be very irritating to the skin.

For more advice on shaving, skin care, hair care, and hair removal, visit Imperial Touch Advice on Shaving Tips or visit our News Blog