3 Stages of Great Shave that All Men Should Know

Whether you are male or female and wherever you are shaving, the general principals are the same - so let's get started.

1 BEFORE

Forget everything you know

Lots of lather or foam does not equal a great shave. It sits on top your skin and does nothing to create that all-important layer between skin and razor blade.

We recommend you choose a quality shaving gel, oil or serum and not a soap-based foam that will dry out your skin.

The number of blades on your razor doesn't really matter either. It's more important that they are clean, sharp and of a decent quality.

Don't shave as soon as you get up

Have breakfast first. Give your skin a chance to wake up!

Invest a little time preparing your skin

Don't use ordinary soap because it is usually very drying on the skin and, coupled with shaving, will make your skin tight and uncomfortable.

To cleanse your skin effectively and kindly, use a deep cleansing soap-free face wash and/or scrub. Thoroughly rinse off with warm water.

All this preparation will help soften and lift your bristles ready for shaving.

2 DURING

Shave in the shower, bath or as soon as you get out of either

Dry stubble can have the same tensile strength as copper wire, so the hot, steamy environment of a shower or bath will soften and prepare your bristles.

It takes three or four minutes for stubble to "wet out" properly, making it much easier to shave.

If you prefer the old water-in-a-sink method, wash your face first with plenty of hot water to ensure your facial hair is really soft.

Read the instructions on your preferred shave gel, oil or serum. These products are slightly different and work best if you use them as suggested.

Spend a little time massaging in your chosen shaving product - this will further soften and lift your bristles.

Ensure you have a clean, sharp blade and shave using short strokes

It's key to shave in the direction of your hairs' growth. Shaving against the grain is the primary cause of razor burn, redness and rashes.

On your face, this is down your cheeks and chin and upwards on your neck. If you are at all unsure, run your finger across your stubble to see which direction the hair is growing.

Rinse the blade regularly

Rinse the blade thoroughly and frequently as you shave, don't press too hard against your skin and let the blades do the work.

It is essential to rinse to keep the blade clean and prevent clogging.

3 AFTER

Rinse thoroughly

When you have finished shaving, rinse with cool water and pat dry. If using a King of Shaves shaving oil, you can just pat your face dry.

Apply a moisturising product

Protect your skin with a moisturiser or face balm. This will leave your skin feeling smooth, supple and soft - not tight and dry. For maximum effectiveness, apply within five minutes of shaving.

Ideally we would recommend using our SPF15 Anti-Ageing Moisturiser, which will protect your skin against the elements.

Don't apply aftershave

The days of "splash it all over" are long gone. Aftershave is primarily made from alcohol which, like soap, has a drying effect on your skin.

If you still want to wear aftershave or a fragrance, simply apply it to the back of your neck or your wrists.

Make your razor blade last longer

For optimum blade life, after use shake off excess water and allow your blades to air dry before storing.

If you have a KoS5 you can use the Wall Sucker or Handle Holder / Blade Guard supplied with it to help protect the blades from damage.

Visit: King of Shaves: Smarter Shaving and Skin Care

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