SHAVE PROPERLY
Eight simple steps to a smoother, more comfortable shave, from prep to aftercare.
Most shaving problems, from nicks and razor burn to patchy results, come down to routine as much as equipment. Get the basics right and a shave becomes quicker, more comfortable and a lot more consistent. Whether you’ve been shaving for twenty years or you’re just starting out, there’s probably one step here that will make a noticeable difference.
What You’ll Need
A sharp blade cuts the hair cleanly, so you need fewer passes and less pressure.
It gives the blade something to glide on, so it cuts the hair instead of dragging across your skin.
Warm water softens the hair and cleans away oil and dirt before you start.
Choose an alcohol-free one if your skin is sensitive.
How to Shave Properly, Step by Step
Warm water cleans away oil and dirt and softens the hair, which makes it easier to cut. Shaving straight after a shower is ideal, because the hair is at its softest. Our shave prep guide covers this step in more detail.
Action: Shave straight after a warm shower if you can.A light exfoliation lifts dead skin and helps hairs sit up so the blade can catch them. You don’t need to do it before every shave, and if your skin is sensitive, go gently or skip it.
Action: Once or twice a week is plenty.Apply an even layer over the whole area and give it a few seconds to settle. Dry shaving, or using just water, is one of the quickest routes to irritation.
Action: Wait a few seconds before the first stroke.A worn blade tugs at hair and needs more pressure, which is when nicks and razor burn happen. If the razor feels like it’s pulling, or you’re going over the same patch repeatedly, it’s time for a fresh blade.
Action: Change your blade about once a week if you shave regularly.Use short, light strokes in the direction your hair grows. Let the razor do the work rather than pressing down. A pivoting head follows the curves of your face and neck, which helps you keep an even contact without extra pressure.
Action: Hold the razor like a pen, not a fist.For a closer finish, re-apply a little cream and make a second pass, ideally across the grain. Shaving against the grain can give a closer result but is more likely to cause irritation, so skip it if your skin is sensitive or prone to ingrown hairs.
Action: Always re-lather before a second pass.Rinse off any remaining cream and finish with cool water. This helps your skin feel fresher and removes loose hair.
Action: Finish with a cool splash.Pat your skin dry rather than rubbing, then apply a moisturiser or aftershave balm. Shaving removes a thin layer of surface oil, and a little aftercare keeps your skin comfortable.
Action: Rinse your razor and store it somewhere dry, too.
- Premium handle with a quality rubber grip
- Pivoting action head
- Strip with vitamin E and aloe
- Free UK delivery
Common Mistakes vs the Better Way
✗ The Common Mistakes
- Pressing too hard. More pressure means more irritation.
- Rushing the shave
- Using an old blade for weeks on end
- Skipping prep: cold, dry skin and no lubrication
- Going over the same spot again and again
✓ The Better Way
- Light pressure, letting the blade do the work
- A slower, steadier shave
- A fresh blade about once a week
- Warm water and a proper lather first
- Re-lather and make one deliberate second pass
Tips for Tricky Areas
Hair here often grows in several directions. Take your time, and consider shaving the neck last so the cream has longer to soften the hair.
Pull the skin gently taut with your free hand and use short strokes.
Contours are tighter here, so a pivoting head makes it easier to keep the blade flat against the skin.
How Often Should You Shave?
That’s down to how quickly your hair grows and how your skin copes. If you get irritation, try leaving a day between shaves and see whether things settle down.
Does Your Razor Really Matter?
Technique matters most, but the right razor makes good technique easier. A sharp blade means fewer passes. A pivoting head follows your face instead of fighting it. A handle with some weight and a good grip gives you control, so you don’t need to press.
That’s what we built SmartShave around: a pivoting action head, precision-built carbon steel blades, a strip with vitamin E and aloe, and a quality rubber grip.
What customers say
“Excellent product, handle has a real weighty and quality feel”
“It dealt with contours very well”
“I particularly liked the flexibility of the head whilst shaving”
Rated 4.5/5 from 15 reviews. Read them all on Trustpilot.
Frequently asked questions
Start with the grain. It’s the gentler option and lowers the risk of irritation. If you want a closer finish, make a second pass across the grain after re-applying cream.
After a warm shower is a good option, as the hair is softer. If you shave first thing in the morning, splash your face with warm water for a minute or two before you start.
For regular shaving, about once a week. That’s why our monthly plan includes four cartridges, one for each week.
Yes. It protects your skin and lets the razor glide. Shaving without it makes irritation far more likely.
Prepare your skin, use a sharp blade, shave with light pressure and moisturise afterwards. For more detail, see our guide to razor burn causes, fixes and prevention.
Yes. You can change, delay or cancel at any time for free, with no long-term commitment.
There’s no secret to a good shave. Soften the hair, use a proper cream, keep the blade fresh, shave with the grain using light pressure, and look after your skin afterwards. Do those few things every time and the rest takes care of itself.