Tips on Avoiding Razor Burn

One of the most annoying affects of trying to get a close shave is the potential for razor burn. It starts out alright. It might just begin with simple itching; then before you know it, your face hurts and is reddened. A razor burn can make you stand out in a crowd which is really uncomfortable. Fortunately, this common problem can be solved. In order to prevent unsightly and uncomfortable condition, follow these tips and you are on the way to a clean and clear face right now.

1. Moisturize your skin. To avoid razor burn you need to get your skin soft and clean. You can start by washing your face or taking a nice hot shower. The shower steam should soften the skin. In addition, scrape slightly with loofah sponge to exfoliate any dead skin cells or unwanted hairs. Once you are done washing, you need to wait approximately 20 minutes before you start to shave. By this time your face should be very well prepared to have a clean shave. Now you are ready to move to the next step.

2. The blade and any other shaving items you may need. After cleaning your face it is time to get all the stuff you will need for your shave. Use either an electric or a one-use throw away type razor. The blade should not be dull or dirty. Worn out blades will irritate your and skin and will be more likely to cut you than a sharp one. Skin irritations can even be brought on by a dirty blade. You need to get shaving cream or gel to shave properly. This ensures that you have a close, smooth shave. When you use soap, you cause your skin to dry out, which makes it irritated. Before shaving, let it sit for a couple of minutes. Now the third step.

3. When you're covered in white stuff, then you can begin work. It is vital to shave in the direction of hair growth instead of the other way, to rule out ingrown hairs. Short and deliberate strokes must be used to avoid prolonged and hard contact of the razor to the skin. You must wash the whiskers off the blade with running water after each stroke. Razors need to be dirt free since a razor with hair in it won't allow a close enough shave. Additionally, have hot water ready to rinse the blade every few strokes. No shaving cream should be left on the blade when you complete this step. In addition, it will dampen the blade.

4. After shaving. Wash your face in cold water to close out your pores and lessen skin irritation, after shaving. Your skin will stay moist and not be so irritated if you use a pleasant aftershave or moisturizer.

Only a few easy steps and you will have a close-cut shave that will make any girl excited and see you. Nothing communicates what kind of a man you are like a nice clean shave before heading off for a big night, so get going! The ladies will just love it.

Jacquie Generra writes about skin care and fashion and grooming tips as a staff writer for HowToDoThings.com.