Achieving a great shave is a big confidence booster, but too often we do not spend enough time to achieve this. This guide shows you how to achieve a smooth wet shave without irritation, causing dry skin or ingrown hairs.
A great shave can leave you feeling invigorated and full of confidence, but too often we do not spend enough time on a proper shave. This can lead to dry and irritated skin, and ingrown hairs. By using the correct products and giving yourself several minutes, you can achieve a great ‘barber style’ shave.
The best time to shave is after a hot shower, because the hot water softens the beard and opens the up the skin’s pores. By opening the skins pores, the hair will loosen up and not be trapped under the skins surface. If hairs are trapped under the skin, shaving will cause irritation. Using a granular exfoliating facewash with hot water will remove the dead skin cells and allow trapped hairs to stand away from the face. A good product to use is the facial scrub by Clinique for men, winner of the GQ best face scrub award 2008. You may also wish to apply a pre-shave oil which soften the beard and help razor glide. Massage the oil against the grain of your stubble to open the pores and lift the hair from the skin.
Shaving with a rich lather greatly helps improve razor glide, and also soften up the hairs. Applying the lather to the face with a good quality shaving brush also helps create a more comfortable shave. The best way to use a shaving brush is by using circular motions going against the grain, making sure not to press so hard that the bristles splay apart. This massaging effect gently exfoliates the skin, softens the beard and lifts the hairs up and away from the face. A shaving brush is made from badger hair which draws in hot water, thus helping to open up the pores further. Edwin Jagger manufacture a large range of shaving brushes, creams and soaps.
The shaving companies like Gillette are constantly bringing out new and improved razors, with more blades and added functions. Modern razors have more blades than a traditional razor, which means less drag and a speedier shave. On the downside it is harder to achieve pinpoint accuracy, which is particularly relevant when shaving the moustache area. Modern razors also offer features such as lubricating strips, that help improve razor glide. The best of the modern razors is the recently launched Gillette Fusion Power Stealth with 5 blades (winner of the GQ razor award 2008).
To avoid irritation and ingrown hairs, always shave with the grain (the direction the hair grows in). After each stroke, rinse the blade under hot water to keep the blade free of hair. You should be particularly careful when shaving around the neck and under the chin as the hair can grow sideways or upwards. Leave the moustache till last because the hair in these areas are the hardest, and so it will give the shaving cream more time to soften them.
After shaving the skin can feel dry and tight, so it is important to moisturise the skin. A standard moisturiser is a very effective way of soothing the skin. Care needs to be taken when using after shave balms, as some products contain alcohol which will dry out the skin. This can lead to ingrown hair as they will not easily grow out of dry skin.
David has worked in men’s grooming and accessories for the past 3 years, having published several articles on the subject.
Men’s Formal Accessories for a Social Occasion
Men’s accessories are essential in adding personality to a formal outfit. Whilst ties, cufflinks and belts help create the right look for work, a different look is required for social occasions such as weddings. This article highlights the accessories men should wear to elevate their formal wear for a special occasion.
The Rise of Men's Designer Underwear: A Fashion Statement or Just Frivolous Spending?
In the realm of men's fashion, designer underwear has emerged as a symbol of style and luxury, thanks to high-profile marketing efforts by brands like Calvin Klein and Emporio Armani. This surge in popularity begs the question: does the allure of designer labels justify the higher price tag compared to their high street counterparts? Let's delve into the nuances of this sartorial debate, examining the value proposition of designer underwear and whether it's a worthwhile investment for the modern man.
Comparing the Leading English Cufflink Brands
Finding the right pair of cufflinks depends on finding the right designer brand, as they each have a unique look. Some specialise in solid silver sports motif cufflinks whilst others in jewellery inspired precious cufflinks. This article looks at the defining characterises of the most important English cufflink brands.
