How to shave without cutting yourself or irritating your skin

The shaving ritual in front of a mirror is a daily chore for many, whereas for others, it can be something closer to torture that leaves your whole neck red and sore from irritation. However, knowing how to shave is not just down to luck, but rather technique and respect.

One thing is obvious though, knowing how to shave your beard or grooming it entails a balance between closeness and convenience, without forgetting the care that our skin needs. The main key for a good shave, whether using a razor or an electric shaver, is to take your time and not rush it. Let's see how.

How to get your skin ready for shaving

The difference between a smooth face and an irritated one always depends on the preparation. You can’t just get down to shaving without proper preparation. Remember that our skin is a living organ that needs some preparation.

• The ideal moment. Whether you use a razor or an electric shaver, the best moment to shave is just after showering, when your pores are open and your beard is soft. If you don’t have time for a shower, you can use specific scented water or oil to achieve a “shower effect”. This will soften the hair and help your shaving implements to glide more easily, thereby reducing cuts and irritation.
• Specific hydration. You should now apply some shaving cream or gel suitable for soft, hard or extra hard beards. Wet shaving is not just for shaving with a razor, as many electric shavers today allow for the use of specific shaving gel or lotion, and even shaving while in the shower.
• Gentle exfoliation. Expert dermatologists suggest exfoliating your face once a week to get rid of dead skin cells, making it easier for the hair to come to the surface and avoid ingrowing hairs.

How to shave step by step: let the “show” begin

Understanding how to shave properly requires following a logical direction that minimises friction. We are going to explain how to achieve this depending on your preferences:

1. How to shave with a razor, an art unto itself

If you want the closest possible shave, there is one golden rule for shaving your beard with a razor: always follow the direction of growth of your hair. Shaving against the direction of growth can cut the hair under the dermis, causing spots and infection.

Pull your skin tight with your free hand, and slide the razor over without pressing down. As for cleaning, keep it constant: rinse the razor after each stroke to avoid the hair and foam from building up and making it harder to cut your hair.

2. Greater versatility by shaving with an electric shaver

If you prefer a quicker shave, learning how to shave with an electric shaver also has its own tricks. Electric shavers usually lift up the hairs before cutting them, and therefore keeping your skin tight is essential. Unlike razors, many rotating electric shavers work better in small circular movements.

How to choose the right razor

Not all implements are suitable for all skins. The choice will depend on your skin type and how often you shave:

• Razors. These are ideal for close shaves and standard use at home. They are suitable for daily shaving and shaving every 2 or 3 days, providing that your skin can take it.
• Disposable razors. These razors are perfect for travelling or occasional use, although they tend to cause more irritation as they are lighter. They should only be used occasionally.
• Electric shavers. Speed and convenience of a dry or wet shave with an electric shaver is one of the main advantages. It is the best choice for people who shave every day.

When deciding how to shave your beard, remember that razors should be changed after 5 to 7 uses on average. In any event, the true indicator of when to change it is the feel of how it cuts your hair. When you notice any “tugging” or feel that the blade does not glide properly, that is when it should be changed.

After shaving skin care products

After shaving is crucial to restore your skin barrier. Don’t forget to use aftershave! Your skin needs soothing, refreshing, repairing and healing active ingredients, simply using your usual moisturiser is not enough. A good product confers a feeling of freshness as well as rehydrating your skin. Dry your face with a towel afterwards, dabbing it rather than rubbing.

When you have finished shaving, remember to wash the razor well or clean your electric shaver and put them away in a dry place to avoid any proliferation of bacteria, and to make sure it is in perfect condition for the next time you use it.