A look at the ultimate quest for the perfect shave. The earliest razors were found as far back as 30,000 BC yet men today are still experiencing discomfort with shaving.
Shaving has been part of the male experience since the Stone Age. The earliest shaving razors that have been discovered are flint blades made possibly as far back as 30,000 B.C. So it is a wonder, despite the evolution of the razor blade, that nicks, cuts and razor bumps are still a common source of discomfort for many men. This, therefore, poses a question – does practice really make perfect?
Considering that it is estimated that most men will shave more than 20,000 times in his lifetime, it is clearly something you want to perfect, even seek pleasure in. So, what exactly is this elusive “perfect shave” that we seem to be hearing so much about at the moment. Well, it would appear that it is near impossible to find a clear definition. However, it does seem that for the vast majority of men who have experienced the barber’s touch, there is no substitute for the professional shave with it being the supreme act of self-pampering a man can indulge in. Male grooming experts have described a proper professional shave as "close, smooth, no irritation ... and no nicks." So there we have it - the ultimate quest for men is a smooth, close shave with no irritation and no nicks.
The next question that has to be asked is why so many guys finding this hard to achieve? Perhaps it is because shaving has become something that is viewed as a chore by most men, something to get over and done with each morning as quick as possible with whatever razor is lying around and a quick dab of that old shaving cream or if that’s run out, a bit of soap and water will have to do. Sound familiar?
Fortunately, men everywhere are waking up to the benefits of looking good and realising that appearance does matter. Razor bumps and cuts on your chin are definitely not a good look!
As a result the traditional wet shave is making its comeback. As the name implies, wet shaving means keeping your face as wet as possible throughout the whole shave. Hot water will open the pores and soften your beard so your razor glides as opposed to being dragged harshly over your skin.
So invest in a good razor, a good shaving brush and a good shaving cream, follow these steps and watch your return on investment rocket.
1.) Water
Ideally shave after a hot shower because, as previously mentioned, the hot water will have opened the pores and softened the hairs resulting in a closer shave. Your skin will also be clean and free from any dirt, oil and dead skin that can get in the way of your shave. You can also apply a pre-shave oil which will further soften the beard and help your razor glide smoothly.
2.) Lather up
A good shaving brush made of badger hair has so many benefits. Applying your shaving cream with a shaving brush will produce a thicker and richer lather, which with the hot water will soften the beard and lift the hairs to ensure the closest possible shave. It will also exfoliate the skin, removing any dead skin cells. Alcohol based shaving products should be avoided as they have a drying effect on the skin. Instead look for a glycerine based shaving cream.
3.) The Actual Shave
Select a good quality razor to suit your style – there are many different types available on the market but there we are seeing a huge rise in popularity of the traditional double edge blades. If you do opt for this style, take your time, as it may take a few shaves to perfect the technique, however, many do say that once you have mastered it you will not look back. Always shave with the grain (in the direction of hair growth) in order to prevent ingrown hairs. Move inwards from your sideburns towards you mouth finishing off with your moustache and chin area.
For a closer shave, you must re-lather before going against or across the grain.
3.) The After-Math
Finish off splashing your skin with cold water to close the pores and pat dry with a soft towel. Don’t rub your skin as this will cause irritation. To soothe and re-hydrate the skin, use a gentle after-shave balm.
Top Tip: Treat yourself to a high quality English shaving cream. They may be a few extra pounds but they will last ages so you are not reaching for that soap and water in emergency situations. As well as this the luxury feeling and fine scents will turn the whole process into a pleasure and no longer a chore making you feel truly pampered.
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