How to Have a Really Close Wet Shave

I tend not to shave every day as I do find the whole process a complete chore, but I do enjoy shaving when I have a few days worth of growth on my face. The feeling afterwards is great.

Like most men I have a wet shave and prefer not to use electric razors. The method I use for shaving is described below and has worked for me for many years. If you have any other suggestions I would love to hear them.

1) Use a good quality razor and sharp blade

You don’t have to keep up to date with the latest releases in wet-shave technology. I am still using a Gillette Mach 3 Turbo and have been doing so for years. I tried the new Wilkinson Sword Quattro Titanium Precision but didn’t like it: I couldn’t shave properly underneath my nose as the blade seemed to large – I wasted money on a razor I didn’t need! Stick with what you know, but always make sure your blades are as sharp as possible. A sharp blade gives you a very smooth shave.

2) Use good quality shaving foam or shaving gel
This can make a big difference to your shave. I use shaving gel as I find it much more comfortable and it lasts longer. You only need a small amount of gel for each shave.

3) Preparation
Splash the face with hot water; the water should be as hot as you can take. This will soften the bristles and open up the pores of your face. Now rub the shaving foam or gel well into the area you want to shave. Some men prefer to use a shaving brush to apply the foam or gel, I prefer to use my fingers.

4) First shave
Go “with the grain” on the first shave – move the razor in a downward motion across the face and under the chin. This will remove most of the bristles, but it will not remove them all.

5) Rinse and repeat
Wash of the excess foam or gel and lather up your face once again. This time you can move the razor across the face in multiple directions enabling you to get a really close shave and remove the bristles left over from the first shave.

6) Rinse and moisturize
Wash off the excess foam or gel, dab your face with a hand towel and apply moisturizer.

What are your shaving top tips? I consider myself to be a basic shaver, but I am sure there are people out there who go to much greater lengths than I to ensure they have a really close shave.