What many guys don’t know is that there’s a right way and a wrong way to shave. For those that shave the wrong way, skin irritation, dry skin, and itchiness are commonplace, and maybe even expected every time their razor touches their skin. For those that shave the right way, shaving is a pleasant experience that leaves their skin feeling smooth and clean, with no accompanying irritation or dryness. At 1924 Fine Men’s Salon of Barrington, men’s grooming is what we do best, which is why we’ve put together this helpful guide on the proper way to shave.
Warming Up
The proper shave begins before you even pick up your razor, because it starts with your skin. All the hairs that you’re about to cut are held firmly in place by the closed pores of your skin, but by washing your face with hot water opens up those pores, and makes it easier for your razor to lift and cut your facial hair right at the root for a closer shave. Also, washing your face will clear away any dirt or dead skin cells that are resting on the surface of your skin, preventing them from entering your pores which can further cause irritation and sometimes acne.
Prepping & Protecting Your Skin
Once you’ve opened up your pores and cleaned your skin, the next step is to create the ideal surface for your razor while also softening up your hairs. Shave oil is an excellent tool for a smoother shave, filling in all the microscopic crevices in your skin to allow your razor to glide across your skin effortlessly. If you can’t get your hands on some shave oil, the least you should do is use some high-quality shaving cream. A good shaving cream creates a protective layer of moisture over your skin to help the razor glide, while also providing your skin with some essential oils to help prevent inflammation and irritation when you’re done shaving.
Using The Right Tools For The Job
Your shave is only as good as your razor allows, so getting the closest shave requires the right tool for the job. When it comes to a good razor, don’t be fooled by the disposable razors that have five or six blades, claiming that they give a closer shave. The extra blades barely do anything to improve the closeness of the shave, and instead only make irritation, razor burn and ingrown hairs more likely. Opt for a quality razor with no more than three blades. Do slow, steady passes going first with the grain of your hair without pressing the razor into your skin. If necessary, re-lubricate your skin and go over some spots a second or third time, possibly against the grain and before you know it, you’ll have given yourself the perfect shave. For a truly classic shave, you can also try a safety razor. These classic blades can be more expensive up-front and actually require some skill and technique, but in the hands of someone who takes his grooming seriously can provide the ultimate shave.
Thinking Long Term
Just as your shave didn’t begin with your razor, it doesn’t end with it either. While your cleanly shaven face may look great for a little while until that stubble starts coming back, we want to look ahead towards keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy in between shaves and even making that next shave better. To finish off your shave, you’re going to want to put on some alcohol-free aftershave balm or lotion, which will give your skin and roots of your hair some essential vitamins and minerals that they need to stay healthy. Additionally, the aftershave will also help soothe any irritation or itchiness that you may experience. After that, wash your face with some cold water to close up the pores and return your skin to the way it was before you stated your shave.
Get The Ultimate Shave From 1924 Fine Men’s Salon
While getting the right shave at home may be part of your daily routine, getting a classic straight razor shave from a professional barber at 1924 Fine Men’s Salon is an experience that’s on another level entirely. From the complimentary refreshing beverage while you wait to the relaxing hot towel treatment, 1924 offers you a luxurious shaving experience that you can’t get anywhere else. If you would like to schedule your appointment at our local Barrington, IL salon, just contact us at (224) 633-2188 to speak with a member of our staff. When you want to look great, choose 1924 Fine Men’s Salon!
