How to Shave

Disposable razors are both convenient and economical. While all razors help protect your skin, you should handle them with care as they are quite sharp; nicking your skin is a common occurrence.

• Disposable razors are inexpensive and, as the name suggests, can only be used once. You can purchase them in bulk and discard them after about five uses, depending on when the blade becomes dull.

Opt for multi-blade razors to enhance efficiency. These razors often come with disposable blade cartridges for replacement; sometimes, you can discard the entire razor (including the handle) after use. Different brands and models vary significantly in availability, durability, effectiveness (multi-blade razors at least reduce shaving time), and even feature adjustable settings for easier hair removal with fewer strokes compared to single-blade razors.

• Multi-blade razors are often considered more durable than disposable razors, though this remains a debated topic. Manufacturers claim their blades can last up to a month and a half, though many users find their blades only last about two weeks.
• If cost is a concern, multi-blade razors may not be the best choice. In Vietnam, replacement blade cartridges for these razors typically cost around 300,000 - 500,000 VND or more. If saving money is your priority, stick to disposable or safety razors.
• Razor handles may vary, but a high-quality handle can reduce the frequency of blade replacements, making it more economical. You can also find premium handles compatible with multi-blade razors.

Choose a double-edged safety razor for a closer and more economical shave. This is a popular choice among men. While multi-blade razors are often safe, this type is the one traditionally known as a 'safety razor.' Single-edged razors are quite rare.

• Purchase a separate razor handle. In Vietnam, handles are widely available, ranging from 20,000 to several hundred thousand VND for high-quality ones. Typically, the handle requires more investment, as the blades themselves are quite affordable.
• Buy double-edged blades in bulk. You can easily find them for around 15,000 VND per pack of 10 blades. You can detach the handle from the blade holder and insert your blade.
• Double-edged blades can usually be used about five times. Since they are inexpensive, replace them weekly if you shave daily.
• Double-edged blades are sharp and may cause nicks and cuts if you're inexperienced. If using a safety razor, shave in the direction of hair growth and use multiple passes.

Use an electric shaver for dry shaving. Most electric shavers are designed for use on dry skin. However, they won't provide as close a shave. The advantage of electric shavers is that you can shave while driving, for example, though this is not recommended.

• Cheap electric shavers often take more time to use because, unlike safety razors, they can't remove all hair in one pass.
• Over time, electric shavers may not be cheaper than traditional razors, as the shaver heads also dull and are similarly priced to replacement blade cartridges.
• Some electric shavers can be used with water or shaving foam; these are usually cordless, clearly marked, and more expensive.

Choose a straight razor for luxury and precision. These razors are less commonly used since the advent of disposable and electric razors, as they require significant skill.

• Straight razors are arguably the sharpest. (They are also heavier than standard safety razors.) Shaving with a straight razor may result in more cuts than using a disposable razor. In the hands of a professional barber, straight razors provide the closest shave.

Wash your face or the area you intend to shave. Cleansing the skin removes excess oil and dead skin cells, which can hinder the shaving process or cause irritation afterward. It also significantly reduces bacteria that could lead to infections. Washing the skin hydrates the hair, making it softer and easier to shave.

• Use warm water to cleanse the skin before shaving. Warm water softens hair follicles and opens pores, allowing for a closer shave.
• Shave after showering. If you typically shave in the morning, doing so post-shower gives your beard time to absorb moisture, making the shaving process smoother.

Apply a lubricating product to wet skin; shaving cream is an ideal choice. Never shave directly on dry skin, as this can cause scratches. A razor should never come into direct contact with the skin without a lubricant acting as a buffer. Otherwise, the blade will drag across your skin instead of gliding smoothly.

• Spread shaving cream (or gel) over your entire face. Shaving cream softens the beard and moisturizes the skin, but if you're in a hurry, you can use hair conditioner or even soap (only if absolutely necessary).
• If using a shaving brush to lather the cream, place a coin-sized amount in a coffee cup, bowl, or similar container. Wet the brush with cold water. Swirl the brush in the bowl to mix the cream into a smooth, thin lather. Add water as needed, stirring for about 2-3 minutes. Use the brush to apply the lather in circular motions across your face.

Let the shaving cream sit on your skin for 1-2 minutes. Allowing the cream to remain on your skin for a few minutes before shaving makes a noticeable difference. It hydrates your beard, making it softer and more manageable.

Hold the razor correctly. If you're using a multi-blade razor, which is the most common type, grip the razor with your index finger extending toward the head, keeping the blade flat against your skin. Tilt the handle at a 30-degree angle.

• If the razor has a spring to keep the blade pressed against the contours of your face, lift the handle just enough to apply moderate pressure on the spring.
• Glide the razor across your skin to shave. Do not press too hard; excessive pressure or sideways motion can cut your skin. Aim to move the razor as gently as possible.
• With practice, you'll learn how to position the razor, move it across your skin, and lift it smoothly at the end of each stroke. Roller razors like the "Headblade" can help maintain the correct angle in hard-to-reach areas.

Shave in the appropriate direction. For the first pass, always shave in the direction of hair growth. This typically means shaving downward, but not always. Shaving against the grain provides a closer shave but increases the risk of irritation and cuts. If your skin is prone to acne, swelling, or ingrown hairs, or if you simply prefer to avoid nicks, shave with the grain. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• If your beard is thick due to prolonged growth, trim it before shaving. Razors work better on one or two days of growth rather than one or two months.
• Everyone's beard grows differently. If unsure about your hair growth pattern, stop shaving for a few days and observe the direction. Hair on different parts of the face may grow in various directions, requiring you to adjust the razor's movement accordingly.
• Multiple passes may be necessary. Shaving with the grain removes less hair than against the grain but reduces the risk of cuts. Reapplying shaving cream and shaving again is normal and doesn't affect your masculinity or femininity.
• For a closer (and safer) shave, on the second pass, move the razor sideways. If your hair grows downward, shave left to right (or right to left). This method provides a cleaner shave with less irritation than shaving against the grain.
• Some people shave in four different directions. This technique ensures a closer shave as hairs in the same area may grow in multiple directions.

Rinse the razor frequently in warm water to remove trapped hair. Keep the blade as clean and unclogged as possible. Whenever debris accumulates between the blades, dip and swirl the razor in water. Adding soap to the water can enhance smoothness (though it may cause foaming, it prevents mineral buildup that can dull the blade).

Stretch the skin when possible. While excessive stretching isn't necessary, it helps create a flat, firm surface for the razor to glide smoothly, especially on sagging skin.

• For example, when shaving underarms, raise your arm as high as possible to stretch the skin. Multi-blade razors with a rubber strip or guard can help stretch the skin before shaving.
• The area under the jawline is tricky for many men due to its uneven surface. When shaving here, stretch the skin on your cheek to lift the area below the jaw, then shave in the direction of hair growth.

Avoid applying pressure while shaving. You shouldn't need to press hard or force the razor. If you do, your blade may be dull. A sharp razor removes hair effortlessly at skin level.

• Pressing the razor may remove hair slightly deeper but risks cutting the sensitive skin around hair follicles.
• Excessive pressure drags the blade across hairs instead of cutting them cleanly. Use a light touch and keep the razor as flat as possible to avoid unnecessary cuts.

Use a pre-shave lotion specifically designed for electric razors. Since electric razors work by trimming hair rather than shaving it, keeping your beard stiff and brittle is essential.

• "Preshave Oil" or other alcohol-based pre-shave products help remove excess oil and stiffen your beard, preparing it for dry shaving.

Move the razor over your face, either with or against the grain. Unlike traditional razors, which make it difficult to shave against the grain, electric razors allow you to do so effortlessly.

• If you're using a rotary (round-headed) razor instead of a foil razor, you can shave in small, circular motions.
• Use light pressure. Avoid pressing the razor too hard on your skin, or you might nick yourself. Also, don't move the razor too quickly; let it do the hard work for you.
• Shave sensitive areas first. Electric razors tend to heat up after a few minutes of use, and this heat can irritate your skin. Start with sensitive areas and then move to tougher spots.

Shave the desired area until your skin feels smooth. Since electric razors trim rather than shave, you may need multiple passes for the small grooves in the rotary head to remove all the hair. Be patient when revisiting areas, and avoid applying too much pressure.

Clean your electric razor after use. Hair and dead skin can accumulate on the razor. Lift the razor head and dispose of the debris in the trash.

• You can also add a small amount of machine lubricant to the razor head after cleaning. This helps the razor glide smoothly over your skin.

If you have time, wash your face after shaving with warm water and an exfoliating cleanser. Cleansing post-shave helps remove dead skin cells accumulated during the process.

• Exfoliating cleansers containing tea tree oil or witch hazel are excellent choices, as they protect against acne and soothe irritated skin.

Rinse your skin with cold water. Cold water soothes fresh cuts and reduces bleeding by constricting blood vessels.

Pat your skin dry and moisturize. Avoid rubbing with a towel, as this can irritate freshly shaved skin. Apply a fragrance-free, non-irritating moisturizer (e.g., baby oil) if your skin is dry. Never use deodorants, antiperspirants, perfumes, or any products that sting on freshly shaved skin.

• You can apply aftershave as a soothing agent or a light fragrance. If aftershave burns, it indicates irritation during shaving. Be more careful in that area next time.

Rinse, clean, and dry the razor blade after shaving. Remove any debris stuck to the blade to prevent impurities and mineral buildup that dull the blade. Stainless steel blades can oxidize when exposed to water. Slow oxidation by drying the blade after use. You can also 'strop' the blade on jeans by rubbing it against the non-sharp side 10-20 times; this dries and polishes the blade, extending its lifespan.