How to get the perfect clean shave The art of clean shaving has been perfected by barbers for thousands of years. Even remnants of razors have been found that date back to 3,500 BC. Unfortunately, the art of clean shaving is something that many men fail to master. Bumps, nicks, and uneven shaves make for a less than professional, clean look. If you’re looking for the cleanest shave possible, here’s a strategy for you, step by step. It’s the one that’s used by barbers around the world. 1. Wash your face with hot water or apply a warm, steaming towel. 2. Prepare your face with moisturizer. Massage against the grain of your hair to help lift the hairs in preparation for the shave. 3. Lather your face with shaving cream using either your fingers or a shaving brush. When using a brush, dip the brush into hot water and build up a rich creamy lather on the brush. Wet your face; apply the cream with a circular motion. 4. Warm your razor in the sink under hot water. Shave your face in the direction of the hair growth, rinsing the blade in hot water frequently. Don’t ever shave against the grain of your hair. Use short strokes and hold the razor straight. 5. When you’re done shaving, rinse your face thoroughly with cool water. Pat yourself dry with a soft towel. 6. Use an after-shave moisturizer or lotion, preferably alcohol-free, as this can cause inflammation and dryness. 7. When applying cologne or aftershave, dab it behind your earlobes and on the sides of your neck - not directly to the area that has just been shaved. General shaving tips It’s important to be gentle with your facial skin. Don’t pluck ingrown hairs with tweezers. It just agitates the skin and cuts the hair in half. If you get an ingrown hair, it’s better to push the hair out with a needle and then shave over it as normal. Within 6 weeks it should return to normal. Always shave after your shower or bath (unless you shave your head inside the shower). Brushing in a circular motion helps stimulate dead skin as well as push the hair out straighter for the cleanest shave. Keep your supplies clean and take your time. The key to a clean shaven face that makes a woman want to reach out and touch you is care and preparation. Never shave in a rush or you can end up with unsightly razor burn, dry skin, or uneven patches or hair when it grows back.