5 mistakes most men make while shaving

Get your best shave possible by avoiding the five most common mistakes:

1. Not paying enough attention to washing before shaving

Make sure to wash your face and neck properly before shaving, since dirt and excess bacteria is a major cause of inflamed follicles, as of red bumps in general. And as an added bonus, softening your facial hair with heat and water (i.e. shower) also makes it easier to cut the stubble, resulting in a less irritated/reddened skin after shaving.

2. Dull razor blades

This is a problem that breaks down into two separate issues (1.) For one, during shaving, most men rinse their razor blades with water that’s way too hot. Steel gradually loses its tempering at temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, so this causes the blade to become dull. (2.) Secondly, and sadly, most men are simply too cheap to replace their blades often enough to ensure a comfortable shaving experience.

3. Not shaving with the grain

If you haven’t checked to see in what direction your beard grows in, there’s a definite risk that you might be shaving against the grain. This is particularly common on the neck where the beard might grow upwards. Or down. Or to the side. Or in a swirl. Yes, you get the idea. Going against the natural flow of your hair can cause the skin to become red, scratched, or in some cases even bring on red bumps and inflamed follicles. Therefore, let your razor follow the direction of your hair, at least with the first stroke, but shaving against the grain on the second stroke shouldn’t cause any problems unless your skin is particularly sensitive.

4. Not using a good enough lubricant

Flushed, irritated and sensitive skin after shaving? Chances are the shaving foam you are using doesn’t provide a sufficient barrier between razor and skin. To put it simply there’s too much friction, so try switching to another type of foam. For those who want a quick morning routine we recommend the Prorosa ready-to-use foam, and for those who are prepared to add a few more minutes to whisk up their own lather instead, we recommend the Benjamin Barber Black Oak shaving soap. If you have sensitive skin you can strengthen the barrier further, for example with a  pre-shave product applied before the foam and allowed to remain in place throughout.  

5. Not using a post-shave lotion

Ingrown hair and red dots on your neck? That means there’s a layer of dead skin on your face that prevents your beard from growing freely. Use Dermalogica's Post Shave Balm or Zirh Erase after shaving and subsequent days. These products contain a weak acid that eliminates the thin and tough membrane of dead skin cells that cause ingrown hair. Or, alternatively, try regular exfoliation, for example with the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant.

Bonus tip: Most men occasionally cut themselves during shaving. It’s a problem that's solved quickly and easily with Alun.