Through observation, trial and error, to conversations with barbers. This comprehensive list offers the best professional advice to men of all ages, and ethnicity in regards to shaving. Consider following the recommendations below to achieve calmer, smoother, and clearer skin without razor burn, ingrowns, or other issues associated with shaving.
#1: Always cleanse the face before shaving with a low-foaming cleanser to soften the hair. Rinse thoroughly with room-temperature, tepid water.
*We don't want to strip the skin, and by following this essential step the skin will be prepped for a smoother shave.
#2: The best shaving choice is a single-blade razor, especially for men that are prone to ingrown hairs. Make sure the blades are clean, sharp and fresh. Apply an unscented shave cream liberally to the face, as fragrance can be irritating to freshly shaved skin.
*My razor recommendation is by Merkur. Its heavier weight ensures that the razor will do the work with less skin scraping and produce a more efficient shave. Visit: merkurshave.com/
*To clean the blades, spritz with rubbing alcohol between shaves, let dry.
Replace the blades often (once or twice a week depending on the coarseness of facial hair and frequency of use) for an optimal result.
#3: Shave with the direction of hair growth using slow, short, overlapping strokes. Check to see the direction in which the hair grows all over the face. Different areas can have different growth patterns.
#4: Not close enough when shaving with the growth? Shaving twice is the best option.
*Shaving against the growth pattern does give a closer shave, but the hairs can easily become ingrown due to the hair being cut at different angles.
*Ingrown hairs can lead to infected follicles (beard bumps), folliculitis, inflammation, redness, pimples, and even the possibility of scarring.
#5: When using an electric razor, the skin should be completely dry before shaving. Follow the manufacturer's directions for guidance.
#6: For post-shave care, take a second to spritz the face with an alcohol-free toner to soothe, and hydrate the skin to help reduce skin irritation. Be sure to protect the skin everyday with an excellent sun block.
*The best products I have found to use after shaving is Cucumber Facial Toner. For skin that is sensitive or flushes easily, and needs additional support use Hydrabalance, a soothing hydrator after the toner. For effective sun protection apply Ultimate SPF. All of these products are available for purchase at Facial Zen.
*For help with ingrown hairs, schedule a facial appointment at: facialzen.schedulista.com/
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