The healthiest, manliest, and most environmentally friendly option for your face is probably not to shave at all, but for those of us who aren't ready to commit to the Grizzly Adams look (or for those whose wives or girlfriends aren't fans), we need to figure out how to shave in the most manly way possible. For years, I've been trying to figure out the ideal technique to shave. Don't make me throw away my man card, but shaving without irritating my skin has been challenging for me. The good news is that I've discovered a shaving procedure that is both environmentally friendly, inexpensive, and natural. It is made up of three parts: a blade, a bowl, and a brush. You won't have to buy any more petroleum-based shaving cream aerosol cans, disposable plastic shavers, or costly multi-blade razors. For the best shave, follow the basic methods below—how it's men shaved for years before all the current marketing schemes:
You'll need the following items: You'll never have to replace a double edge razor because they're made of stainless steel. A shaving bowl or tiny bowl that fits a cake of round soap; a cake of round shaving soap, I recommend Mr. Beardsley's Shaving Soap or another natural soap; a shaving brush; and a pre-shave oil are the only things you'll need to change.
1) Take a warm shower and scrub your face lightly. A decent shave necessitates the use of hot steam, which opens pores and softens the beard. It takes time to shave properly. You don't have time to shave if you don't have time to take a shower! The other (albeit less effective) option is to wash your face with hot water and then rest your face in a hot towel for several minutes.
2) Apply a pre-shave oil to your face and rub it in gently. There are shaving oils specifically designed for this purpose, but you can also use pure almond oil (adding a little bit of tea tree oil creates a nice blend). The oil hydrates your beard and skin, allowing the razor to glide smoothly across your face. (This is an optional step.) Shaving without a pre-shave oil is my personal preference.)
3) Splash hot water on your face, then lather up the soap in your shave bowl with a shave brush and a little hot water. In circular motions, apply the lather to your face.
4) When you first start using your razor, there are a few things to keep in mind. To begin, shave very softly, relying on the weight of the blade to accomplish the majority of the work. The purpose is to minimise your beard with multiple passes of the blade (since there is just one blade, it won't bother your skin). Second, you must pay close attention to the many directions your beard develops on your face and neck, and shave with the grain. If you still want a closer shave after removing the majority of your beard, try softly passing the razor across the direction of your beard. Finally, shave at the smallest angle possible. The temperature is normally around 30 degrees. Place the shaver perpendicular to your skin to get this angle, then slowly lower it until it shaves your beard.
5) While shaving, keep rinsing your blade with hot water. If your skin becomes too cold, press a warm washcloth against it for a few seconds to gently open your pores.
6) Just a friendly reminder: TAKE YOUR TIME. With practise, you will become faster.
7) Rinse your face with cold water once you've completed shaving. You can re-moisturize your skin using an astringent and a natural lotion or oil if desired.
A couple more further hints: To prevent water from damaging the bristles or handle, store your shave brush on its side or bristle down. After each shave, coat your razor blade with your pre-shave oil to prevent oxidation and keep the blade sharper for longer. Tea tree oil, which is also antibacterial, is what I use.
This regimen has helped me a lot, and it's a lot less expensive than buying the latest shaving tools. Relax, contemplate, and take pleasure in the process. Your diet has a significant impact on the integrity, hydration, and health of your skin. Consume plenty of vegetables, berries, and omega-3 fatty acids on a daily basis. Have fun shaving!
