3 Essential Tips to Improve the Way You Shave

 

Shaving has long been considered as an important ritual that marks a boy's passage into adulthood. However, even though man has been practicing the art of shaving for thousands of years, most of us still struggle to do it the right way. From using alcohol-based aftershaves to shaving against the grain, the modern shaving experience is fraught with mistakes. Here are 3 eye-opening tips to help improve the way you shave.

Invest in a good shaving brush

Ever wondered why barbers always use a shaving brush? In today's day and age of shaving gels, the shaving brush is pretty much non-existent and a forgotten tool. However, do not underestimate what a good quality shaving brush can do for your shaving experience. Essentially, using a shaving brush to lather up the face raises the hair follicles, resulting in a cleaner cut and a closer shave. Also, the bristles exfoliate the skin which helps reduce the occurrence of shaving bumps. You can buy cheap shaving brushes that consist of plastic fibres, but they are never good enough for the job. It is better to invest in a proper shaving brush, made using real hair fibres. Although a number of different hairs can be used, badger-hair shaving brushes are the best ones you can get your hands on.

Ditch the electric shaver

The commercials for electrical shavers sure are convincing. Yes, electric shavers, the high-end ones at least, can give you a close shave. However, is it the best shave you can get? Hardly! While electric shavers are very convenient, they do sacrifice performance to a certain degree. At best, electric shavers perform at par with disposable razors. For the best shave possible, get your hands on a safety razor. When paired with a good shaving cream and brush, a safety razor can deliver the closest shave possible, without scraping the skin off. If you are feeling especially bold and want the best shave imaginable, then a straight razor is what you need. If you do opt for a electric or disposable razor, seriously consider using natural shaving oil instead of shaving cream or gel.

Do not ignore pre and aftershave care

What you do before and after the actual shaving process is just as crucial as the act of shaving itself. Before you shave, wash your face thoroughly with warm water. The heat helps to open up the pores and guarantees a closer shave. If you have been outside all day, wash your face with soap to get rid of any minute particles of dirt that may result in cuts and shaving bumps. After shaving, rinse your face with cold water to help close the pores. Finish of with an aftershave balm to moisturize the skin and deal with any minute nicks. Stay away from strongly scented aftershaves; they don't do much for your skin or your personality.

Incorporate these three tips to improve our shaving experience and you will realize that shaving is not a chore, but an art. The right tools and right technique will help you get a close, clean, and irritation-free shave every single time.

The author of this article, Nancy Baker, is a freelance blogger, currently writing for TotalShave.com, leading manufacturer of natural shaving oil. She loves to collect old vinyl records and is a proud owner of a vintage gramophone. You can also follow her on Twitter @Nancy Baker.

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