If we’ve learned anything from “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” it’s that there’s a right way and a wrong way for a guy to shave.
Here are some tips for a more pleasant shave, according to The Art of Shaving (www.theartofshaving.com) and King of Shaves (www.kingofshaves.com):
– Shave in the shower or immediately after a shower. At other times, splash the face with warm or hot water. It softens the whiskers and opens pores for a less painful shave.
– Apply preshave lotion or balm.
– Lather with a glycerin-based shaving cream if possible. (The amount of lather does not equate to a better or closer shave.)
– Always shave with the grain first (i.e., in the direction the hair grows). Shaving against the grain causes ingrown hairs.
– Shave slowly. Rinse the blade often in hot water.
– Avoid applying pressure on your razor. This can cause razor burn or irritation.
– When done shaving, rinse your face with cool water. Pat dry.
– Use an alcohol-free after-shave to soften the skin.
– Don’t be cheap. Replace the blade as soon as you feel it has lost its edge.
———-
Edited by Cara DiPasquale (cdipasquale@tribune.com) and Kris Karnopp (kkarnopp@tribune.com)
