Wet shaving tips for men - How to get the best wet shave (Part 2)

April 30, 2010 · Posted in Shaving Tips · Comment 

If you have purchased a cut-throat or safety razor but are still not 100% when using it, then the following advice may be of some use to you. There may be a number of wet shaving techniques out there that experienced shavers will swear by, but the basic principles are still generally the same. A wet shave can be divided into; pre-shave, shave and post-shave.

DR Harris Marlborough Shaving Cream Bowl (150g)

Pre-shave
The key to an effective shave is to prepare well beforehand. Firstly, you will need to soften the bristles, opening up the pores of the skin. This can be achieved by having a hot bath or shower, but if you do not have the time, you can always make use of a warm or hot flannel. Preparing in this way will increase the chances of a painless shave. If you have particularly sensitive skin or a heavy beard, it may be worth purchasing pre-shave oil and lubricate your whiskers with just a small amount, before the next stage of the process.

Shave
You now need to lather and massage your choice of shaving cream or soap into your stubble or beard. You need to do this thoroughly, so it is best to invest in a decent shaving brush.

When you are ready to begin; slowly, and remembering to use short strokes, shave with the grain. By shaving in the same direction as the hair growth, especially when fairly new to wet shaving, you are minimising the chances of causing razor burn, redness and rashes on the skin. The neck area is particularly sensitive and should be treated with due care.

In the third and final article on this subject, to be published on Wednesday 5 May, we will take a look at some more techniques you can use when wet shaving, along with post-shave advice.

Missed part 1? Here it is > Simple shaving tips for the perfect wet shave (Part 1)

Simple shaving tips for the perfect wet shave (Part 1)

April 27, 2010 · Posted in Shaving Tips · Comment 

Firstly, you may be wondering: why wet shaving in the first place? As you are probably aware, there are many high-tech electric razors on the market these days, so this would seem like a fairly understandable question to pose. The answer is simple though. If you are looking for a more effective shave that also offers you better looking skin, then wet shaving is the ONLY option available for real men.

Merkur 38C Barberpole

This means that you now need to pick a side between a manual wet shave, or opt for an electric razor. Electric razors may save you time, especially in this fast-paced world we live in, but for quality of shave (and with less irritation) there is no comparison. This is because the hot water will open up the pores of your skin allowing your facial muscles to relax. It also softens your whiskers for a more effective all-round shave.

If you have decided on wet shaving, then welcome to the club. You now need to choose a top quality razor with the sharpest blades. While using a razor, make sure you keep an eye on how the blade is performing as it will need to be replaced from time to time. This will ensure you always benefit from an even shave and less chance of irritation to your face and neck.

No matter what razor you use, and how long you have been shaving for, there are always ways to improve your shaving technique.

In the next article, to be published on Friday 30 April, we will be taking a look at some of these and offer advice on how to get the best out of your shave. So please check back.