While electric shavers are mostly used for dry shaving, new models can also be used for wet shaving as well. However, new wet models may be pricey. Consumer sites can help you determine which shavers suits your price point. Some shavers may be overpriced based on added features that you do not need for your specific hair type.
Wash your face with a gentle facial cleanser to get rid of any dirt that has built up. [1] X Research source If you have sensitive skin, consult a skin care specialist to find out what cleanser is best for you. Wet a washcloth with hot water if you don’t have time to shower. Hold it to your beard/stubble for a few minutes.
Most pre-shave products include ingredients like vitamin E to ensure that your skin is protected and irritation is reduced. [4] X Research source There are some products like pre-shave optimizer and pre shave oil that can improve the effectiveness of an electric shaver. [5] X Research source Consult a skin care specialist to find out what best works for your skin. Stick to your skincare routine once you’ve found what works for you.
It does not matter whether your facial hair is straight, curly or coarse, learning the direction it grows allows you to avoid irritation and in-grown hairs. [6] X Research source
The three rotating mechanisms of a rotary shaver can help with hard to reach areas. Flexibility can depend on the brand so do your research to accommodate the contours of your face. Titanium blades that form part of the rotary mechanism aid in painless shaving. [8] X Research source A foil shaver has oscillating blades behind steel foils that lifts the hair out of the face as opposed to cutting it. These electric shavers have 3 to 4 blades and more blades means a reduced shaving time but can also be more noisy . The large head allows you to cover more area so this choice may be right for you if you want a quick and efficient shave. [9] X Research source
Skin irritation is another sign that you need to change the foil. Don’t throw away the manual as details of how to replace parts and valuable manufacturer contact information will become invaluable the longer your keep your shaver. [11] X Research source
When using a rotary shaver, make small circular motions with the shaver head on your face but remember not to press hard or go over the same spot repeatedly to avoid irritation. [12] X Research source Foil shavers work best when you shave with back-and-forth strokes. [13] X Research source
Foil shavers by Braun, Panasonic or Remington can be cleaned by lifting the head frame off and gently brushing out the whiskers from the under side with the cleaning brush supplied by the manufacturer. Do not touch the screen because it is very fragile. [14] X Research source Philips rotary head shavers can be cleaned by lifting off the razor head assembly and brushing out the under side of the three cutters and the razor chamber. Don’t tap the heads on the sink as it may dent or damage the precision-made combs. [15] X Research source Remove each cutter and comb the retaining plate of your rotary shaver every other month, or more if you have thick or fast growing hair, by brushing the whiskers from the cutters and soaking them in liquid cleaner and lubricate. [16] X Research source
Hold the shaver at right angles to your face as your other hand pulls the skin taught to ensure hairs stand upright. This will also create maximum skin contact which reduces shaving time and minimizes snagging. [17] X Research source
Shaving against the grain gives a closer shave but is an easy way to cut yourself and you run the risk of cutting hair below the skin level, which creates ingrown hairs. These are also known as razor bumps because the whisker grows into the surrounding tissue instead of out of the pore, which causes inflammation and possible infection.
Put down the shaver and use both index fingers to help give you some perspective of which side is longer by placing each finger at the bottom of each side burn. For example, place your left finger at the bottom of your left side burn pointing towards your reflection in the mirror. Do the same with your right finger at the same time to get a sense of which side burn is longer and adjust accordingly.
You can also try moving your upper lip away from the direction that you are shaving. For example, shave downward and to the left as you move your upper lip toward the right. This will help flatten out your skin and expose your shaver to more of your hair.
You can also try moving your jaw away from the direction of your shaving stroke. For example, shave downward and to the left as you move your jaw to the right. This will flatten out your skin and expose your shaver to more of your hair.
Many men with sensitive skin should shave the most tender areas, like the neck area below the jawbone, first, and then move to tougher spots like between the ears, nose and mouth because some shavers generate heat that can cause irritation. [20] X Research source
Wash away and wipe off any loose hair and use your finger tips to feel if there are any loose strands remaining.
Consult a skin care specialist to find out what after shave works best for your skin type. Aftershaves, eau de toilets, and colognes are used for different purposes. Aftershave helps to give you a fresh scent after shaving while moisturizing and medicating your skin. Be aware of your surroundings in case coworkers or others in close proximity are sensitive to the strong smell that these products may provide.
Consult the user’s manual for what lubricant works best for your model. Do not use a lubricant meant for other tools as it may contain harsh chemicals not meant to touch your skin. Consult a skin care specialist immediately if a rash or irritation happens after applying a new lubricant. Chances are you’re having either an allergic reaction to the lubricant or a combination of the lubricant and other skin care products.
