How to Prevent Razor Burn

Razor burn is annoying, ugly and painful. With some time and care you can prevent razor burn from happening to you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Razor
• Shaving Cream
• Shaving Brush
• Pre Shave Oil
• Shower or Hot Towel
• Mirror

1. 
    
   Hot Towel Applied to the Face

   Before any shave you have to loosen up the hairs on your face. In order to do this you need to take a nice hot shower or place a hot towel on your face for awhile. The steam from the shower or towel softens the hairs on your face and makes them easier to shave and less likely to cause razor burn.

2. 
    
   Pre Shave Oil

   After the hairs on your face are nice and soft, you need to apply a pre shave oil. Any brand will do and you can even make it yourself with castor oil and olive oil. Pre shave oil will help further soften the hairs on your face and prevent razor burn. If you have never tried pre shave oil I highly recommend it.

3. 
    
   Shaving Brush

   Using a shaving brush, again any brand will do, gently brush shaving cream on your face. By using the brush you help lift the hairs on your face and prepare them for a cleaner shave. Allow the cream to sit on your face for a few minutes to help soften your hairs.

4. 
    
   Razor

   Have a razor with a sharp blade. People will argue that less blades are better than more, but I have found that less blades aren't enough to shave my facial hair. I recommend trying out a few different razors until you find the one that works for you.

5. When you start shaving always shave with the grain of your hair. This means that whatever direction your facial hair grows, shave in that direction. This will make it easier to shave the hairs and will help prevent razor burn and ingrown hairs. Also, rinse the razor after each stroke to prevent hair build up in the razor and ensure you are getting a clean shave.

6. 
    
   After Shave

   When you are done shaving apply a hot towel to your face to soothe your skin. After a few minutes remove the hot towel and apply an after shave. As with the razors, try a few after shaves out and use whatever after shave you are most comfortable with and feel works for you.

Tips & Warnings

• Take the time to shave properly. If you rush any of the steps or try to take shortcuts you will increase your chances or getting razor burn.
• Always use a sharp and clean razor blade.
• Never shave against the grain of your facial hair.
• Do not use a dull razor blade

[mikeg21v]

on 9/14/2009 Great tips! Razor burn sucks! 5* and recommended

[elite1985]

on 4/21/2009 Great tips...I might try that preshave cream!

[1How]

on 4/10/2009 Razor burn is pretty much the most awful thing ever. I'd never heard of a pre shave oil. If this doesn't work for you, you can also try my method of giving up and just having a beard.

[adecesare]

on 4/10/2009 Women love smooth faces. Thanks :)

[oregonspiceman]

on 4/3/2009 will do, good advice 5* and recommended