Your Step-by-Step Guide to Shaving the Right Way

Shaving may seem simple, but to achieve a smooth shave without nicks, itching or irritation, there are a series of steps you should follow. To make your shaving experience a little easier, we’ve broken down exactly what to do from the minute you pick up your razor, plus  how to care for skin post-shave. 

Shaving Step #1: Soften the Skin

Shaving the moment you step into the shower means your skin and hair haven’t had time to soften. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), it’s best to shave at the end of your shower or bath.

 Kick off your shower with a gentle body wash like the Nécessaire The Body Wash, or if you deal with rough skin texture, try the CeraVe SA Body Wash for Rough & Bumpy Skin. If you choose to exfoliate the area before your shave, opt for a gentle scrub that can help loosen the hair follicle like the Fur Silk Scrub.

Shaving Step #2: Coat Skin with Shaving Cream

Just as water is an absolute must in the shaving equation, the same goes for shaving cream or gel. There may be other products just sitting in your shower that seem like appropriate alternatives, but if you’re debating using conditioner or regular old soap to lather up, let us kindly suggest you don’t. 

A shaving cream or gel will help ensure you don’t end up with cuts. We recommend the Billie Shave Cream, which has aloe, shea butter, olive oil and sage to keep the skin hydrated and happy during your shave. If you want a gel option, try the Oui the People Sugarcoat Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk. 

Shaving Step #2: Coat Skin with Shaving Cream

Just as water is an absolute must in the shaving equation, the same goes for shaving cream or gel. There may be other products just sitting in your shower that seem like appropriate alternatives, but if you’re debating using conditioner or regular old soap to lather up, let us kindly suggest you don’t. 

A shaving cream or gel will help ensure you don’t end up with cuts. We recommend the Billie Shave Cream, which has aloe, shea butter, olive oil and sage to keep the skin hydrated and happy during your shave. If you want a gel option, try the Oui the People Sugarcoat Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk. 

Shaving Step #3: Reach for a Fresh Razor

Trust us, razors aren’t something that get better with age. The longer you use the same blade, the duller it becomes, which means you won’t be getting a close shave. s. The AAD suggests changing blades or throwing away disposable razors after every five to seven shaves, which can help minimize irritation.

Looking for some options with disposable heads to try? Opt for the Flamingo Razor or the Billie Razor Starter Kit that comes with two extra blades and a magnetic holder. 

Shaving Step #4: Go With the Grain

Somewhere along the way, someone may have taught you to shave against the grain to catch every last hair, but you’re more likely to end up with irritated skin and ingrown hairs when you shave this way. Rather than risk it, the AAD says to shave in the direction that the hair grows. While you’re at it, try not to go over the same areas again and again. 

Shaving Step #5: Take It Slow

You may want to get shaving over and done with, but racing towards the finish line won’t get you anywhere good. Shaving too quickly, or pressing too hard, can cause cuts and irritation. And as for hard-to-reach areas like your bikini line and beyond, check out our guide for everything you need to know about shaving down there.

Shaving Step #6: Always Moisturize Afterwards

Before drying off, apply a hydrating body lotion like the La Roche-Posay Lipikar Lotion on damp skin. On the sensitive areas where you just shaved, we recommend applying an after-shave oil like Fur Oil to help minimize the possibility of ingrown hairs. If you also have issues with stubble following your shave, try the Alleyoop Smooth Operator Stubble Moisturizer to keep your skin looking silky smooth and stubble-free.

Design: Hannah Packer 

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