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How do you get the perfect shave for Face or Head?

Shaving their faces and heads is something men have done for centuries. The Greeks, the Egyptians, the Mesopotamians and many Eastern countries preferred neatly trimmed and defined beards and other facial adornments. Alexander the Great as well as the Romans preferred the clean-shaven look.  For Alexander, a clean-shaven face was necessary for battle. No sense making it easier for the enemy by giving them something they could grab hold and hang on to in close quarter combat. To the Romans, a good shave was the sign of a true Roman. It was a sign of civility and civilization. The word for beard was “barba.” The bearded ones or barbari, were the Barbarians. To other civilizations, however, beards meant something else. In India and Israel , a beard implied wisdom and dignity.

It is true the popularity of facial hair has changed over the years. Shaving techniques and preferences have also altered with portable razors replacing the strop with its straight edge razor blade. There are also electric razors and a multitude of products like shaving cream warmers addressing the real and supposed needs of anyone shaving.

Today, there are people who choose to shave, others who do not. For those who do, using a razor can be as simple as following the method provided below.

Should i use a shaving cream warmer?

These are very hand things and give a much better shave.

How to shave

·         Prepare the skin on your face by first washing it in warm, not hot or cold, water. Take a shower, bath or soak your face with a wet towel.

·         Use soap- regular or a special skin softener, and warm water. Scrub it clean before you move to the next step.

·         To really soften the skin and stubble thoroughly use a pre-shave oil.

·         Apply shaving cream or gel in a thin, even layer on your face and neck. Use a Shaving cream warmer if you have one. Avoid using too much. You do not want the razor to clog or skip sections.

·         Try not to rush the job.  Give time for the cream or gel do what it is intended to do - soften your beard for a minute or two. This will creates a smooth surface for the razor blade, greatly reducing the possibility of razor burn and post-shave blotches, the result of ingrown hairs and razor bumps.

·         Take the razor and start working your face. Apply sufficient pressure to remove the hair but not so much as to irritate or nick the skin.

·         Shave with the grain of your hair follicles. This will prevent scratching the skin. Be aware that the hair on the face tends to grow downward toward the neck. On the other hand, the hair on the neck grows in the direction of your chin.  

·         Be careful in the rough or patchy areas of skin.

·         Do not use broad strokes. Keep them short and purposeful, starting with side burns, cheeks, and neck. End with the upper lip and chin. This will give time for the gel or cream to soften up the tougher hairs in this area.

·         Remember to rinse your razor repeatedly under hot water. Whenever necessary, tap it on the sink. This will get rid of bunged up hair and cream or gel and maintains the blade razor-sharp and clean during your shave.

·         When finished, rinse off your face with cool water. Soothingly pat your face dry with a towel and apply a non-abrasive, even soothing, aftershave.

You are now ready to face the world.