Shaving is part of everyday life but it doesn’t have to be a chore. Knowing a few simple tricks can make shaving something you look forward to and even care for your skin while you’re at it. These tips will ensure you get a clean shave and help avoid the pitfalls of maintaining facial hair.

1. Use A Sharp Razor

There are a few things you’ll want to avoid when shaving and they are pretty basic but everyone can use a reminder. The first is to make sure you don’t use a dull razor. If you use a razor that has outlived its usefulness you risk increasing the chance of having ingrown hairs, irritated skin, and discomfort. A sharp razor such as the Dollar Shave Club Executive Razor can be purchased for only a few dollars a month and they will even deliver it to your door. Depending on how thick your hair is, a razor can become dull after only a few uses so make sure you are not over-using your razor. You’ll know if it has become too dull if you full a painful tug.

2. Make Your Own Natural Shaving Cream

Maybe you’ve never considered making your own shaving cream, but it’s actually quite easy. If you have sensitive skin, this is a great way to make shaving a more comfortable experience while treating your skin to some healthy ingredients. There are a variety of recipes for homemade shaving cream, here is a great one that won’t cost more than $20 to $30 and will last you a long time. You will need:

– 1/2 cup cocoa butter
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tbsp grapefruit seed extract
– 1/2 cup castile soap (unscented)
– 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
– 1 tbsp sweet almond oil
– 1/4 cup organic raw honey
– 2 empty soap bottles with a foaming top

Simply mix in the ingredients in a large pot in the order described above and pour into the empty soap bottles. This recipe will create around two 16 oz containers worth of natural shaving cream. The grapefruit seed extract will help preserve the shaving cream and is rich in antioxidants. You can experiment with this recipe and add your own ingredients such as lavender to give your natural shaving cream a scent. Try substituting the cocoa butter with shea butter for an even smoother shave.

3. Don’t Skip The Pre-Shave

When you are getting ready to shave, it is important to prepare your skin correctly to get the closest shave possible. You always want to wet your skin before shaving. You can do this in the shower or by keeping warm wet rag wrapped around your face for three to five minutes. If you have a beard that you are trying to maintain, don’t use body soap or hair conditioner on your beard hair. The skin on your face is different than the skin on your head and some warm water is all you need to prepare it for styling. You can also find conditioner meant specifically for facial hair such as Uncle Jimmy Beard Softener. Once your skin is prepared you can start applying shaving cream. Let the shaving cream sit on your face for a few minutes before starting to shave.

4. Shave In The Direction Of Your Hair

This is a big mistake that a lot of people make when shaving. It may seem trivial, but shaving with the direction that your hair grows is important and will help avoid painful bumps and razor burn. If you shaving against your hair, you also risk getting ingrown hairs that don’t clear the outer layer of skin. Be sure to rinse your razor after each stroke for a closer and more effective shave. Having hairs bunched up in the razor will inhibit contact of the blade and skin.

5. Dry Your Razor & Store In A Dry Place

You might be wondering why it matters that your razor is kept dry, it’s just a razor isn’t it? Well, the reality is that bacteria can grow on a razor blade if it is not properly dried and stored. This bacteria can grow in between shaves and you don’t want to be spreading bacteria all over your face, especially if you accidentally cut yourself. This will also help avoid unnecessary irritation to your skin. After your done shaving, dry the razor and keep in a place that is free of moisture. Don’t keep it in the shower or on the sink where it can get wet. Once you are done shaving, splash some cool water on your face which will help reduce inflammation.

If you follow these five tips you are sure to see an improvement in your shaving experience. Keep your skin healthy and clear with some natural shaving cream and a clean sharp razor. If you’re growing a beard, don’t forget to avoid using hair products meant for your head such as shampoo or conditioner. These products contain chemicals that will strip away the natural oils in your beard and lead to dry skin and scratchy beard. Consider getting a conditioner that is meant for your beard and there are also a number of beard oils that can help make it soft. Explore which products work best but always keep these five tips in mind and you’re bound to experience a better shave.

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“If you don’t mind smelling like peanut butter for two or three days, peanut butter is a darn good shaving cream.” — Barry Goldwater

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