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In search of the perfect shave
shaving
Nothing beats a really close wet shave.
Electric razors may be convenient and fast, but for smoothness a wet shave is the only option. And yet for something which most men do every day, few have really mastered the art, and hurriedly hack away at their beard each morning.
The perfect shave is all about preparation and begins with liberally splashing your face with warm water for sixty seconds or so. As well as hydrating your skin, the H20 softens the stubble, opens up the pores, and relaxes your face muscles, making for a smoother, cleaner shave.
Next use a good face scrub or cleaner to remove any dirt or dead cells which can intrude between your skin and the razor blade. Dab the excess away with a soft towel but make sure the skin still remains moist.
Then apply a small portion of shaving cream, foam or gel to the face. Most men overdo this part and clog their razor with so much gunk that the blade can’t glide effortlessly over the skin. Whether you choose cream, foam or gel is largely a matter of personal preference, but bear in mind that, in general, cheaper foams and gels contain alcohol which can dry the skin.
Massage the shaving agent into the face using circular motions which end in an upward stroke. This makes the stubble stand away from the face even more, thereby guaranteeing a closer shave. Most men will apply the cream with their fingers, but for best results use a shaving brush made of beaver hair which exfoliates the skin as well.
Time now to start shearing away all that stubble? Think again. Let the cream sit on your face for a good minute or two, allowing the bristles to soften even further.
Now at last you can begin. Start shaving the sideburns and cheeks first, and then the neck. Leave the chin and lip areas till last as they have the hardest and most resistant stubble and will benefit the most from the cream’s moisturising effect. Remember to rinse the blade after every second or third stroke.
Always shave in the direction of the beard’s grain, which is usually downwards. Shaving against the grain may produce a closer shave, but runs the risk of irritation or a rash. If you do need a really close shave then shave downwards and then across the grain.
After finishing shaving apply an alcohol-free balm to your face, This will keep your skin soft and supple, as well as reducing any irritation.
