Shave The Day! - The Wet Shave Routine
This is for those of us who partake in Man’s greatest ritual - The wet shave. We dive into the perfect shave routine from, blade to the skin, recommending our favourite products and how to combat your worst shaving concerns.
The Wet Shave Routine
The wet shave is no doubt the best way to get that flawless close shave. Along with other self-care routines, training yourself on how to wet shave can become a part of your skill set. It is important to follow these simple steps to wet shave like the pros.
Pre-Shave
Before every shave, one must have a routine beforehand as it is considered the most important step, as it will soften your stubble and optimise your wet shave.
- Prepare your face
Something as simple as using warm water to open your pores can do the trick. But a more effective way is to apply pre-shave oils to make sure that your shave is clean and concise.
We recommend using these pre-shave products:
Bad Bones Barber Shop Pre Shave Oil 60ml
Proraso Pre Shave Cream Tub Eucalyptus Menthol 100ml
Vines Vintage Pre Shave Oil 100ml
- Dampen your shaving brush
You want to make sure your shaving brush is damp enough for you to create a thick foam for your shave. Leaving your brush too wet can make the shaving cream too thin and wet which can create difficulty in the shaving process. If you remove excess water but leave just enough so that it is still damp will do the trick.
We recommend using these shaving brushes
Bad Bones Barber Shop Pure Badger Bristle Shaving Brush
Proraso Shave Brush Large Bristle
Muhle 31 K 876 Shaving Brush 21mm
- Apply shaving cream
Spread an even coat around where you would like to shave by making sure you use a back-and-forth motion when whipping up the cream as it can ruin the bristles. Then it is important to go against the grain when applying the shaving cream as it lifts the hairs and allows for an even closer shave.
Recommended shaving creams:
Proraso Shaving Cream Jar Nourish Sandalwood and Shea Butter 150ml
Captain Fawcetts Scaoicchio Shaving Soap 109g
The Shave
- Prepare your razor
As important as it is to do some pre-care for your face, your razor also needs the same care. Making sure you put it under warm water for about 15 seconds will help you shave with a little more ease.
We recommend you use these razors for the best outcome:
Muhle R89 Twist Safety Razor Closed Comb
Baxter Of California Traditional Safety Razor
Supply The Single Edge SE Classic Matte
- Shave the hairs away
It was important to apply the shaving cream against the grain, however when shaving you want to shave with the grain. This is ideal as it guarantees a smooth shave, decreasing the chances of any nicks, razor burns, and rashes. Furthermore, there is no need for you to press hard as this is easily the most common mistake made. Applying too much pressure can increase the chances of irritation and an imperfect shave.
Post Shave
- Rinse your face
Remove any stray hairs and excess shaving cream with warm water. Then make sure you pat dry your face with a clean towel, do not wipe as it can irritate your skin.
- Use after-shave products
Whether it be a balm, tonic, or moisturiser, taking care of your skin after your skin has been exposed to a razor is important. Make sure you rub it in a circular motion to rehydrate and replenish your skin. This will protect your skin for the busy day ahead of you.
We recommend these after-shave products:
American Crew Shaving Skincare All In One Face Balm 170ml
Baxter Of California After Shave Balm 120ml
How To Avoid Shaving Concerns
Many risks can occur when shaving that can be damaging to your skin. Whether it be irritated skin, nicks, razor burns, pimples, or ingrown hairs can affect your confidence and shaving routine.
Making sure you follow the steps above can prevent these issues from occurring, but most importantly take care of your skin after you shave. The after-shave is a crucial part of your shave routine so that you can prevent any of these concerns. Keeping your skin hydrated and soothing can make a difference.