Tag: tips

Helpful Shaving Tips for Men

Some men find it challenging to achieve a nice clean shave. For men with sensitive skin, using a razor may be scary. However, every man can benefit from implementing anall-natural chemical-free shaving routine. A smooth clean shave is very noticeable and desired by many women. You may have spent hundreds of dollars on shaving equipment, but a visit to your kitchen or local grocery store may be all that’s needed to obtain a smooth shave.

Shaving is not always a daily task, but it does require some time and concentration. Unfortunately, shaving also has its downside if improperly done. Some men will end up with sores, nicks, and dull looking skin. Problems such as these are largely due to improper preparation.

To avoid skin problems, it is suggested that you do the following prior to shaving.

Wash Your Face Before Shaving

A little stubble can contain dirt and stray hairs from the head. In addition, the buildup of oil can wreak havoc on the blade. The cleaner the face, the better it is for the blade.Also, don’t wash your face with a chemical base soap. Make sure you use a natural cleanser.

Shave in the Shower

By allowing the water to soften the hairs prior to shaving, it minimizes nicks and ingrown hairs. A mere splash of water is not sufficient. The hair must be completely drenched in warm water for a least a couple of minutes. If you don’t have time to take a shower, a warm washcloth may be applied to the hair and skin. Let it cool prior to applying the razor.

Make Sure the Blade is Sharp

Using the same blade over and over is not a good idea. You need a blade that is sharp and will provide you with a nice close shave, with minimum effort. A sharp blade that is clean and new prevents uneven cutting, damaged skin, and ingrown hairs.

Know When You Should Go Against the Grain

In most cases, men should shave in the opposite direction of where the hair is growing. This almost certainly guarantees a close shave. However, if you have sensitive skin, you may want to do the opposite. The shave may not be as close as you’d like, but it will decrease friction and irritation.

Don’t Scrape, Glide Instead

Many men find it tempting to press the razor against the skin. Many razors offer protective designs to preventnicks. Unfortunately, the harder you press the razor against the skin, the more skin you remove. Even if you don’t have sensitive skin, scraping creates irritation over time.

Use a Natural Shaving Cream

You can make your own shaving cream by mixing Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil, and Castile Soap. There are also many companies that now provide chemical free shaving cream. Be sure to look at the ingredients before purchasing any of them, for some products falsely claim to be all natural.

By taking these necessary steps prior to shaving, you minimize ingrown hairs, nicks, razor bumps, and discoloration. Washing the face prior to shaving, shaving in the shower, using a sharp blade, knowing when to go against the grain, gliding instead of scraping, and using a natural shaving cream can provide a nice clean shave for many years to come. These simple techniques can be used regardless of age, ethnicity, or hair type.

About the Author: Alicia Chapman

Alicia Chapman is a freelance writer from Minnesota who enjoys writing fashion, travel, and lifestyle trend pieces. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, camping, happy hour, and can typically be found at a local brewery or cheering on a local sports team. You can follow her on Instagram and Twitter @aliciahchapman or see more of her work at www.aliciahchapman.com.