How To: Get a Better Electric Shave

The electric shave is generally the preferred option for guys who like the “no-hassle” approach to taking the beard off. Add to that the many men who get skin irritation from shaving with a razor, and you’ve got yourself a plethora of men who electric shave or “dry shave” (outside of a depilatory), as their only beard removal choice. With that in mind, optimizing the use of these tools is very important; here’s how to accomplish just that!

Now, I have to preface the following info by saying, yes, there are electric shavers on the market that try to mirror a wet-shave by giving you the option of shaving in the shower. And, for guys that get a great shave with this approach, go for it! However, from my experience, the best electric shave experience (including trimmers) is still achieved when done dry.

Here are a few tips! 

• Keep it dry – for electric shavers, you need your beard to be dry to the touch in order to maximize the cutting capability of your shaver; never wash you face before.
• Consider a pre-shave solution – no not a pre-shave oil; in this case the pre-shave solution mimics the pre-shave oil by creating a protective barrier on your skin that allows for a better glide and a closer shave but without the risk of clogging your shaver. These solutions work well with trimmers as well. Brands like: Jack Black , Lab Series, Kyoku carry this item. 
• Sensitive areas 1st – many electric shavers generate heat quickly throughout the course of a shave, and where there’s heat there’s usually irritation (especially if it’s already sensitive).  So shave the sensitive areas (i.e. neck) first, while the shaver is still cool.
• Know your tool – to get the best out of your shaver be mindful of the following: Rotary – shave in small circular motions; Foil – shave with the grain, and against on a case by case basis; Trimmers – work like small clippers, and therefore do a great job of keeping the face clean shaven; use them as you would use your regular clippers.
• Clean – shavers must be maintained to maximize their cutting ability.  For the best daily results clean after every shave, at worst no longer than after every 3rd.  For foil shavers specifically, be sure to replace the screen and blades once year. And for all options-DON’T FORGET THE OIL! 
• Aftershave – dry shaving can be just as aggressive as using razors, so the use of aftershave balms designed to – soothe, heal and moisturize your skin are encouraged. Here are two of my favorites! ~ 3-in-1 Post Shave and Menaji Power Hydrator. And, never EVER use an alcohol based aftershave since the ingredient alcohol is known to harden and also darken the skin.

Follow these steps and your skin can look and feel just as good as the wet-shaver!