The Ultimate Shaving Routine: Tips for a Smooth and Comfortable Shave

God we all think we have shaving worked out don't we? Then we go to shave as normal and for some reason, our face looks like something out of Hellraiser. I mean what is going on!? Well at least that's what i used to say in my mid-thirties. If only I could go back there and teach myself the tricks I know now about shaving. I would of course get onto warning about the cost of living crisis and COVID and the war in Ukraine next time around. But first I would offer the younger me some of these amazing shaving tips.

1. Preparation: Begin by washing your face with warm water to soften the hair and open up the pores, making the shave easier. Have a number of towels in the bathroom at any given time and ensure they're fluffy. Not your flatmates towel that was bought in the 80s and last washed in the 90s. 

2. Use Quality Products: Invest in a good-quality razor and shaving cream or gel. A sharp blade reduces the risk of nicks and irritation. I have put a list of the quality razors here: 

• Gillette: Known for their precision and quality, Gillette razor blades like the Fusion and Mach3 series are widely used and have a good reputation.

• BIC: BIC offers a range of disposable and refillable razor blades that are affordable and effective for many users.

• Schick: Schick's Hydro and Quattro lines are popular for their moisturising features and close shave.

• Feather: Feather is often praised for its sharpness and quality, making it a favourite among many wet shaving enthusiasts.

• Astra: Astra blades are known for providing a smooth and comfortable shave at an affordable price point.

• Personna: Personna blades are often considered sharp and reliable, and they are used by many wet shavers.

3. Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate your skin a day before shaving to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs. For this you can actually make your own coffee scrubs. Simply take the left over coffee granules from the cafetiere, mix with some shower gel and apply. Wash up after yourself or else the girlfriend will go loopy. 

4. Apply Shaving Cream: Use a generous amount of shaving cream or gel to create a protective barrier between the razor and your skin. Don't bother taking shaving cream on the road. Hotel soap often lathers up just as good. 

5. Shave in the Right Direction: Shave in the direction of hair growth to minimise irritation and ingrown hairs. If you need a closer shave, you can go against the grain in a second pass. Shaving in the direction of hair growth (shaving downward) is generally recommended for a smoother shave and to reduce the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs. Just be sure to use light pressure and a sharp blade to minimise irritation. Keep in mind that some areas of the face may have different hair growth patterns, so it's a good idea to adjust your shaving direction accordingly for each area. 

6. Use Gentle Pressure: Let the razor do the work. (Unless you have a hot secretary that can do it for you, EG Moneypenny shaving Bond in Skyfall) Applying too much pressure can lead to cuts and irritation.

7. Stretch the Skin: Stretch the skin taut with your free hand to create a smoother surface for the razor to glide over. If you want to shave over the Adam's Apple simple induce a halfway swallow and it will disappear whilst you hold your breath. 

8. Rinse the Razor: Rinse the razor frequently to prevent build-up of hair. Unless it's an electric razor of course. Ah but what is better for the skin wet or dry shaving? I've pulled together a little bonus pack here on the benefits of wet shaving. 

• Less Friction: Wet shaving with a sharp blade and lubricating shaving cream can result in less friction on the skin compared to the mechanical action of an electric razor. This can reduce the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs.

• Closer Shave: Wet shaving tends to provide a closer shave, as the blade can get closer to the skin surface. Electric razors might not cut hair as closely, which can lead to the appearance of stubble.

• Exfoliation: The act of wet shaving can also provide a mild exfoliation as the razor removes dead skin cells along with the hair, leaving your skin feeling smoother.

• Customisation: With wet shaving, you have more control over the pressure and direction of the shave, allowing you to adapt to different areas of your face.

• Less Heat: Electric razors can generate heat due to the mechanical motion, potentially causing discomfort for sensitive skin.

9. Aftercare: Once you're done, rinse your face with cold water to close the pores. Pat your skin dry and apply a soothing, alcohol-free aftershave or moisturiser. The hit the town and encourage random strangers to stroke your face. 

10. Replace Razor Blades: Change razor blades regularly, as dull blades can cause irritation and cuts. That said I've had the same razor blades for years. But don't tell my sponsors that.