How to Achieve a Perfect Shave

Whether you’re new to wet shaving or your technique could use a little work, our all-in-one guide has everything you need to get a close, clean and ultra-smooth shave.

The best time to shave is after a hot shower. The warm water softens your facial hair and hydrates your skin, allowing for a smooth, clean shave. If you’re pressed for time, just skip the shower and apply a warm towel to your face and neck. At the very least, dampen the areas you want to shave with hot water. It won’t be as effective, but it’s better than nothing.

Pre-shave oil is a great way to prep your face and neck for shaving. A good formula will moisturize and lubricate your skin, giving the blade an even glide. This can help prevent irritation and painful tugging. Likewise, many oils can soothe inflammation, making it an effective way to minimize the itch and bumps of razor burn.

Our Smooth Shaving Pre-Shave Oil is specially formulated with natural, organic ingredients like Argan and Prickly Pear Oil. Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, they keep skin soft and supple, all while giving you a comfortable, refreshing shave.

Shaving cream is super-important because it acts as a barrier between your skin and the blade. Not only does it allow the razor to move easily, it also softens facial hair for a superior cut. You want to use a quality formula, preferably one that contains anti-inflammatory ingredients. This can ease uncomfortable itch and burning if cuts or irritation occurs.

Formulated with a host of soothing oils like Almond and Prickly Pear, our Smooth Shaving Cream pampers your face and neck. We also added ingredients like Apricot Powder to calm inflammation, irritation and redness.

The benefits of a natural shaving brush are twofold. First, it allows you to build a rich, creamy lather (you want a consistency similar to whip cream). Why? The bristles are able to retain water and warmth, making quick and easy work. Second, as you apply the lather, the bristles help lift your facial hair. This gives the razor better access for a closer shave.

Shash For Men offers a full line of shaving brushes, each made with genuine badger hair. Whether you opt for our Pure, Best of Silvertip Badger Brush, you can rest assured knowing each one is flexible, soft and made with a solid brass handle.

When shaving with a safety razor, it’s best to hold the handle at a 30-degree angle and move with the grain. Don’t apply too much pressure. Allow the blade to do the work and move in short, slow strokes. After your first pass, apply more cream. For your second pass, move across the grain. If you don’t have sensitive skin, a third pass against the grain can give a super-close shave.

The type of razor you use will depend on your lifestyle and personal preference. That’s why we offer Closed Comb, Open Comb, Butterfly and Cartridge options. Not sure which one is best for you? Check out our article, How to Choose the Perfect Razor.

Even with proper technique, minor cuts and irritation are sometimes unavoidable. But before you tear off bits of toilet paper, we suggest using an alum block. Rich in mineral salts, they constrict blood vessels and tighten your pores to stop bleeding. They also contain antibacterial properties, which can ward off potential infection.

Shash For Men’s Alum Blocks are made in France and individually hand-polished. Made with 100% potassium alum, they’re safe for sensitive areas like your face and neck. We hope you never have to use it, but you’ll be glad to have it if you ever need one.

The perfect shave requires preparation and practice. Start with a warm shower and pre-shave oil to soften your hair and protect your skin. Use a quality shaving brush and well-formulated soap to build a whipped cream-like lather. Shave with the grain, using short strokes and light pressure. If cuts or nicks occur, follow up with an alum block.