If you’ve ever had the awesome experience of a proper shave from an old-school barbershop, you know that shaving should leave your face smooth and refreshed, not red and irritated. The most important thing to getting a barbershop-worthy wet shave, is good preparation.

START WITH HEAT & WATER

While a barber uses a hot towel, you can achieve nearly the same results by shaving after your shower. All the steam and hot water softens your stubble making it easier for the whiskers to come off. As a matter of fact, the force required to cut your facial hair is reduced by two-thirds when the hair is wet, which leads to less nicks and cuts!

PREP SKIN

It’s important to start with clean skin. If it’s been a few days since your last shave, it’s wise to use some sort of scrub to help remove the dead skin, especially in the summer months. With a smoother the surface, more of the razor remains in contact with the skin. Be careful however, due to the aggressive nature of scrubs, it cannot be done on a daily basis due.

BRUSH ON THE CREAM

The use of an old-fashioned badger hair brush will allow shaving cream to cover the face and neck evenly. You should lather the cream onto your face, swirling the brush in a circular motion, which lifts facial hair better than your hands alone. Allow the shaving cream to stay on the skin for 30 seconds or so. Then, shave your difficult areas last, this will allow the shaving cream to soften the whiskers longer.

BRING ON THE BLADE

Once your skin is prepped, pull your skin taut, using short strokes and of course a sharp blade. Rinse the blade often, under hot water, to keep it clean and sharp. Fewer blades tends to reduce irritation. The use of a safety razor is ideal for those who get ingrown hairs. Quick note, use caution when shaving those stray hairs on the top of your cheek.The sensitive skin and curve of your face creates a danger zone for tiny cuts and irritation.

FINISH UP

Close your shave session with a splash of cold water to close your pores. End by applying a light application of an alcohol-free after shave or moisturizer.