Shaving. It’s a rite of passage once boys start puberty. I know it will only be a few short years before my own boys, ages eight and ten, are standing in front of the bathroom mirror with my husband teaching them how to shave.
It is estimated that almost ninety percent of men shave once per day. Considering this is an integral part of most men’s daily routines, shaving the right way pays off. If you’ve ever seen a man with a piece of tissue over a cut on his face or with razor burn due to a dull razor, you will know that this is true.
With Father’s Day around the corner, why not treat Dad to some shaving supplies? You provide the gifts and we will share our helpful tips on getting a great shave.
1. Shower before you shave
While many men shave prior to stepping in the shower, it is better to wait until your shower is done. The heat and steam from the shower helps to soften the stubble and allows for a closer shave. Apply a very warm washcloth to help prep the skin for a close shave.
2. Say goodbye to dead skin cells
This is an often overlooked step when it comes to shaving, but is one of the most important ones. When you do not exfoliate, dead skin cells accumulate and can clog your razor blades. Not only does this put you at risk for nicks and cuts, but it prevents you from getting a close shave. While in the shower, choose a facial scrub to slough away dead skin cells. Doing this twice a week encourages cell turnover and will help your razor gently glide over the skin. A bonus? Exfoliating will help prevent ingrown hairs.
3. Be generous with the shaving gel
A rich shaving gel is best for minimizing friction between the razor blade and your skin. Applying a thick layer of gel over your stubble will help get a close shave without tugging the skin. Many men think they just need a small amount, as this is what is recommended when it comes to applying personal care products. When applying shaving gel, more is actually better, so don’t worry that you are using too much.
4. Apply moisturizer
I fondly remember my father splashing his face with aftershave when I was a little girl. Dad always called it aftershave “lotion.” It was always the final step of his shaving routine, but was really just an alcohol-based liquid with a heavy scent. For softer skin, apply an oil free moisturizer to damp skin right when you step out of the shower and massage in. This will seal in moisture and help your skin feel comfortable.
5. Choosing the right razor is key
You can follow all of our recommended skincare steps, but to maximize your shaving experience, you need to have a good razor. Blades need to be sharp and glide with ease over the skin, otherwise you will not get a close shave. You do not have to spend a fortune, but it is probably best to skip the disposable razors at the dollar store.
Fun fact: The average man’s face has anywhere between five and twenty five thousand whiskers on it.
Shaving doesn’t have to be painful. Help the men in your life have a more pleasant shaving experience with our five simple tips. Wishing all of the dads out the a very Happy Father’s Day!