Shaving cream is not always essential for shaving. There are many alternative solutions, such as using conditioner, shower gel or even plain water, which can be just as useful. The key factor is to moisturize the skin after shaving to prevent it from becoming dry or irritated.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Using Soap
Step 1. Choose the type of soap
The secret is to select one that creates a lot of foam to cover the skin evenly. Also, it is best to use a moisturizer to help the razor blade glide easily over the skin, preventing unwanted cuts or irritation. You can use one of the following products:
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Balm:
: it is an excellent moisturizing agent as it is designed to make hair smooth and soft.
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Shampoo:
creates a lot of foam, also eliminates impurities and sebum accumulations on the skin.
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Shower gel:
acts similar to shampoo and creates more lather than conditioner. For an excellent result, choose one that contains nourishing butters for the skin to moisturize it better.
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Dish soap:
if you've run out of shampoo and shower gel, dish soap is a good alternative because it foams just as much. Be careful, however, as in addition to mildly irritating the skin it can dry out considerably.
Step 2. Moisten the area of skin you intend to shave
Water is always an important element because it allows the formation of foam. Shaving without using water or any moisturizing agent could cause the blade to slide unevenly, causing cuts or irritation on the skin.
- If you are not in the bath or shower, you can moisten the skin using a wet cloth or cotton pad.
- If you want to achieve an ideal result, it is best to shave after being in the shower or tub for 10-15 minutes. The water and heat make the skin softer and open the hair follicles, favoring a closer shave.
- Before shaving, you can also exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells using a scrub, sponge, or shower glove.
Step 3. Soap the part
Try to form a thick layer of foam that evenly covers the skin you intend to shave. The foam makes the razor blade slide better; it also lets you know exactly which parts you still need to shave.
Add a few drops of glycerin to further increase the foam while hydrating the skin. Glycerin is a clear, odorless liquid that is readily available in pharmacies or stores that sell soap making materials. Generally, it is used to treat and prevent certain skin ailments, including itching, irritation and dry skin
Step 4. Start shaving
As you do this, rinse the razor frequently to wash off the hair and foam.
- Always follow the direction of the hair. If you move the razor against the grain, you risk pulling the hair violently, with the possibility of it getting stuck between the blades.
- Slow down near the natural curves of the body and where the skin is most sensitive, for example in the areas of the neck, nose, armpits, genitals, ankles and knees.
- A multi-blade razor allows you to get a closer and closer shave. Choose the model that best suits your skin type.
Step 5. Moisturize the skin
After shaving, wash off any soap residue with water, pat your skin dry, then apply a moisturizer. The cream is used to soften the skin to prevent ingrown hairs and relieve any inflammation or itching.
Method 2 of 2: Using Oils
Step 1. Choose whether to moisten the skin first
The oils are already quite watery, so applying them well may not need to wet the skin first. In addition, the water could cause the opposite result to that desired, repelling the oil rather than blending with it. If you feel the need to open the follicles and soften the skin, apply a cloth moistened with warm water.
- It is best to shave after spending 10-15 minutes in the shower or bath. The water and heat make the skin softer and open the hair follicles, favoring a closer and closer shave.
- Before shaving, you can also exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells using a scrub, sponge, or shower glove.
Step 2. Trim the longest hairs
Shaving will be easier after shortening them. The hairs will not risk clogging the razor blade; also, you won't need to use a large amount of oil.
Step 3. Massage the oil into the skin
Use a generous amount and make sure you distribute it evenly. The varieties of oil you can use to shave are numerous. The purpose of the oil is twofold: in addition to acting as a lubricant to help the blade glide on the skin, it also allows you to hydrate it. Some of the oils suitable for the purpose are:
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Coconut oil:
it can be in both liquid and solid form. Simply rub it between your fingers to melt it, then apply it to the part you intend to shave. Coconut oil is safe, highly moisturizing, stays on the skin for a long time and has excellent antifungal and antibacterial properties that help protect sensitive skin.
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Olive oil:
is known for its many beneficial health effects. In particular, as regards the skin, it even helps protect it from cancer.
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Baby oil:
it is odorless and often contains aloe vera extract, an ingredient that helps relieve inflammation and irritation.
Step 4. Start shaving
Don't forget to rinse your razor often to get rid of any hair and oil that could clog the blades.
- Always follow the direction of the hair. If you move the razor against the grain, you risk pulling the hair violently, with the possibility of it getting stuck between the blades.
- Slow down near the natural curves of the body and where the skin is most sensitive, for example in the areas of the neck, nose, armpits, genitals, ankles and knees.
- A multi-blade razor allows you to achieve a closer and closer shave. Choose the model that best suits your skin type.
Step 5. Wash away the excess oil
If you have particularly sensitive skin or are shaving a delicate area, such as the genital area, it is best to remove the residual oil after the job is done. In any case, nothing prevents you from leaving it on the skin to act as a moisturizer, massaging it if necessary once again.
Advice
- You can soften and pre-moisturize the skin to give it greater protection from the razor blades, preventing cuts and irritation.
- Always use a cream after shaving - it will help prevent ingrown hairs and relieve skin irritation and inflammation.
Warnings
- Dry shaving, without using water, can greatly irritate the skin.
- Never use the razor to shave the eyebrows or the area around the eyes: it is very dangerous to bring the blade close to the eyes. Style your brows using wax or tweezers.
