By Sander - The Beardmen That most men choose to shave with a razor is not surprising. The little device ensures that you only need a small amount of time, and you have minimal risk of cuts and skin irritations. This is because a shaver exerts gentle pressure on your skin, allowing hair to be removed effortlessly. Moreover, with a shaver you can do more than just shave as short as possible.
In order to shave hygienically and efficiently, it is important to know what you are doing. As The Beard Man, I like to list some tips for you. How do you get the desired results from shaving with a razor?
A rotary shaver versus a vibrating shaver
When it comes to shavers, the main distinction is that between rotary and vibrating variants. You can distinguish the two not only in terms of their operation, but also already very clearly based on their appearance.
The difference in operation between a rotary and a vibrating shaver
A vibrating shaver is thin and straight. With this, you manage perfectly to reach the hair under your chin, for example. The vibrating speed, which is important for the shaving result, is also high. In contrast, a rotary shaver is narrower, which makes it easier to reach all the contours of your face. Round shaver heads are suitable for shaving any beard type: from thin flaxen hair to the thickest beard hair that has to go. For this reason, and because of the fact that rotary shavers are effective for beard hair growing in all directions, I prefer this type.
Wet or dry shave?
Before I answer this question, as The Beard Man I think it’s important to know what wet and dry shaving actually means. Dry shaving is always done with an electric razor. No other products are used. Wet shaving is done with an electric shaver and water or shaving foam or gel. The device must be suitable for this purpose. Both ways of shaving have advantages and disadvantages.
The advantages and disadvantages of dry shaving
The obvious advantage of dry shaving is that you don’t need anything else for it. This ensures that you can get started quickly and effectively anywhere. At the same time, not using products such as water or shaving cream carries a small risk: your skin quickly becomes dry and therefore irritated. That skin irritation can make for a less smooth result.
The pros and cons of wet shaving
Wet shaving gives you a smoother shave and is better at protecting your skin from dryness and irritation such as ingrown hairs. You manage to follow the contours of your face better in smooth lines. On the other hand, it takes more to shave this way and therefore costs more money.
What accessories do you need for a smooth shave?
For a close shave, the first thing to do is to make sure you use the shaver according to its instruction manual. Have you mastered its use? Then you can get to work with the corresponding accessories, with which you can achieve an even smoother and/or more precise shave.
Do you intend not to shave your face completely smooth, but want to leave a short beard? Using the different attachment combs, you can vary the length. This way, you manage to trim your beard effortlessly. Do you have a precision trimmer attachment? With it, you can make the tightest lines. Ideal for your sideburns, for example.
After-shave care
Shaving your beard affects your skin’s protective barrier. Especially if you already have dry skin, it can easily be damaged during shaving. Therefore, aftercare should definitely not be forgotten. This does not have to be difficult at all. After shaving, all you have to do is apply a moisturizing cream or perfume-free aftershave balm. Avoid using skin care products with perfume or alcohol, as these will only irritate your skin. Moisturizing reduces the chances of irritation and red bumps and spots.
Tips for a smooth shave
- Shaving dry? Make sure your beard hairs are in contact with water for at least 2 minutes. This makes them softer and smoother and makes shaving easier. The easiest way is to step into the shower prior to shaving.
- Using your free hand, where necessary, tighten your skin. This not only produces a smoother result but also reduces the risk of wounds.
- Don’t press too hard with the razor on your skin; it’s not necessary at all.
- For the smoothest results, shave against the direction of your beard’s growth.
- Do you have a long beard? Trim your hair short before shaving it further.
- Place the shaver at a 90-degree angle to your skin.
- Don’t shave the same area unnecessarily often; this promotes irritation.
- Apply proper aftercare after every shave.
- Clean your shaver regularly.
- The smoothest shave is achieved with a razor or safety razor, but this is not suitable for everyone.
Conclusion: How To Shave Properly With A Razor
Shaving the right way with a razor means, first of all, shaving with a device that suits you best. So choose between rotary and vibrating versions and decide whether you prefer to shave dry or wet. Ensure adequate hygiene during the shaving process and apply aftercare in the form of lotion or mild aftershave balm. With additional accessories, you can give even more expression to your beard style.
Frequently Asked Questions
A smooth shave is achieved by wetting your skin beforehand and buying a high-quality shaver. The flexibility of rotary shavers is preferable in this regard. Aftercare is also important; moisturizing lotions or mild aftershave balms restore the skin barrier. This reduces the chances of irritation and blemishes in your skin.
The best way to shave your beard is to use an electric razor. Ideally, you should choose a rotary version, which is effective on every kind of beard hair and also tackles beard hair growing in different directions effortlessly. For the smoothest results, shave against the direction of hair growth.
If you want to shave with a razor, first prepare your skin for the treatment. Then shave wet or dry with a rotary or vibrating shaver. While doing so, do not apply unnecessary pressure on the device and tighten your skin so that even the smallest hair does not escape the razor’s blades. After shaving, apply proper aftercare.
If you have a wet shaver, you can use shaving foam instead of water. Shaving foam has the big advantage of making you feel fresh right after you shave. You can use any kind of shaving foam (or shaving gel). Just be sure to rinse your shaver regularly under the tap to keep it running smoothly.