How To Get a Smooth Shave

Remember the first time you learnt how to shave? Or should I say “didn’t” learn how to shave. It was probably you, along with another underage partner in crime, trying it out for the first-time, using your dad’s razor. 

The fear of getting caught and the excitement of doing something so “grownup” may have given you an adrenaline rush. Trying to follow your partner's “instructions” on how to do it right, probably resulted in more than just a few cuts and nips that instantly gave you away once you emerged from the bathroom, with a patchy shave and several cuts on your skin. 

You’ve probably come a long way and gotten a lot better at it. However, if a smooth shave is still hard to come by, and you’re still struggling with nips and cuts, chances are you’re making some common shaving mistakes. 

So what can you do for a smoother shave?

Read on to find out!

Use better tools

According to dermatologist Rachel Ward, MD: “Using a razor represents the easiest and most convenient way to remove unwanted hair.”

Using razors for hair removal is a pretty inexpensive and painless method. It is also quick and great for on-the-go. However, it’s important to invest in a few good quality tools that not only give a clean, smooth shave but also last long. Cheap quality razors do more harm than good and can cause cuts and bleeding, resulting in inflammation and redness. 

The Leovard Luxury Shaving kit is a set of top-notch quality, durable grooming tools, designed in inspiration from the high precision tools of surgery. A combination of zinc oxide alloy, acrylic fiber body, and 100% badger hair creates a plush shaving lather that keeps the hair soft and protects the skin while shaving, aiming to give you a smooth and clean shave, each time. 

Never shave dry

Dry shaving can increase the likelihood of getting a cut, while also resulting in a patchy and uneven shave. Washing with a gentle cleanser before using the razor will help to soften the hair. Wet shave causes lesser pulling and tugging and allows for a close shave, minimizing the chances of razor bumps, redness and inflammation.

A hot shower helps 

It is mostly recommended to shave the face and body after having a warm shower. The steam helps to open up the pores and makes the hair soft enough for the blade. This trick drastically reduces the chances of the nasty razor bumps and burns. If you're only shaving your face and don’t fancy a shower, steaming the face or applying a hot towel will open up the pores for a smooth shave.

Don’t skip exfoliation

Exfoliate your body at least one day before shaving, especially if your skin is prone to getting razor bumps. Dead skin cells can clog up the razor blade, causing razor bumps. Exfoliating beforehand results in a clean and evened out area, much like a canvas, resulting in a smooth shave.You can use chemical exfoliators or physical exfoliators including DIY body scrubs that would help clear out dead skin cells and help the ingrown hair to come out of the skin surface, allowing for a clean shaved off face.

Use a shaving cream instead of soap

Shaving cream or a pre-shave oil is a much better alternative for a bar of soap which tends to dry out the skin and can cause irritation post shave. A shaving cream or oil helps to soften up the hair and provides lubrication for the blades to glide smoothly on the face and body. Do read the ingredient list before going for a shaving cream as it could include ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) and parabens that might give a great lather but are harmful for the skin and body.

Rinse off with cold water

This helps to remove any residue, and helps to close the skin’s pores. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing as this can cause irritation to the freshly shaved skin. Using an aftershave tonic, like the Leovard Luxury Aftershave Tonic formulated using natural ingredients, including oils, potent antioxidants and proprietary herbal extracts, will help to reduce skin inflammation, redness and razor bumps post shave. 

Moisturize right after

To avoid irritation and inflammation post shave, it’s imperative to massage in a good moisturizer or oil. This helps to alleviate any dryness and skin tearing caused by the razor, giving a smooth and hydrated look to the skin.  

Takeaway

Bear in mind these few tips and tricks for your next shaving ritual. Not only will they give you a silky smooth and clean shave, free of razor bumps, redness and irritation, it’ll give you a boost of confidence, knowing that you’re looking your absolute best self.