Shaving, for some, is a source of pain and discomfort. Some choose to deal with this by “scraping their face” as seldom as possible, while others have no choice but to shave every day for their jobs. Some use an electric razor. Others never make the adjustment as an electric razor initially can be more painful than the razor burn from shaving.
High quality electric razors are less likely to require this “break in” period and some say they can actually give a closer shave than disposable blades. But the price of a good electric shaver can inhibit experimentation, especially when first attempts were disastrous. If you do use an electric shaver, all of these steps still apply except for shaving foam, or shaving soap:
1. Take a warm shower. Ideally, it’s best to shave in the shower (or bath). Your skin and your beard become softer. Anti fog mirrors can help insure you don’t miss a spot if you are in the shower. If you can’t shave in the shower, wash your face with warm water to open your pores and soften your skin and beard, then shave immediately after getting out. Not washing your face before shaving is similar to not washing your car before rubbing it with a cloth. Your skin has grit you need to remove. Don’t scrape it around with the razor. Terressentials offers organic Fragrance-free Gentle Gel which is great for sensitive skin, and can also be used as a shaving soap.
2. Soften the beard (even more). Argan makes a great pre-shave oil that will further moisturize the face, soften the beard, and allow the razor to glide smoothly. It’s a great natural antiseptic that leaves skin feeling supple and smooth.
3. Lather up. Many “shaving experts” tell you that nothing works better than badger hair shaving brushes to exfoliate the skin and raise the hair up off of the skin for a closer shave. Unfortunately, badgers are killed to make shaving brushes. We found a great alternative: the Handmade Anti-Microbial Shaving Brush (available at www.ritualsskincare.com). This brush is animal friendly, and the synthetic antimicrobial bristle has negative ions to keep it free from bacteria, mold, and mildew. Also, instead of toxic shaving creams that do more damage to your skin than good in the long run, try an organic, toxin free shaving cream or shaving soap. Or, just lather up again with Terressentials organic Fragrance-free Gentle Gel. Its organic herbal extracts care for sensitive or tender skin.
Wet the brush, then use it to whip the cream or soap into a lather and spread it on in a circular motion. Regardless of which shaving cream or soap you use, avoid shaving foams that foam excessively and make it harder for the razor to get close to the skin. Opt instead for creams in jars or tubes which produce a thin, gentle lather. Make sure you completely cover every part of your face that will be shaved.
4. Pick up the blade. Some people have trouble using a multi blade razor. Others say that the more blades you use in one stroke, the less time you need to go over the same surface. Shaving style, such as the way you hold the blade and the amount of pressure you apply, can also make a difference. Be sure you angle the blade so that the razor and the surrounding razor pads lie flat on your skin. And do not apply too much pressure. Which blade you choose is just about personal preference, but we applaud you if you go with a straight razor; disposable blades are not exactly eco-friendly.
5. Shave with the grain. Where your beard grows down, shave downward. On your neck your beard likely grows upward so shave in that direction as well. If you require a closer shave after you have gone with the grain of your hair, you can then go against the grain. But first, lather up all over again!
6. Rinse. When you are finished, splash your face repeatedly with cold water. In addition to washing away the remaining shave cream and oil, the cold water helps close pores and soothe the skin. Then gently pat (don’t wipe) your face dry with a towel.
7. Apply aftershave. Tea tree oil is a great toner and a natural antiseptic that nourishes the skin. Terressentials recommends their Fragrance-free Toner (with an organic cotton pad) for balancing the skin after cleansing and/or shaving and for tightening the pores.
8. Re-moisturize. Argan oil can be used again to moisturize your irritated skin. And, as we mentioned, Argan oil is a natural antiseptic, so you are helping to fight any infection that may later cause pustules known as razor bumps.If you still break out when you shave you need to look at your diet. Toxins, bacteria, yeast, and other skin irritants are not only coming from outside—they are also coming from within, leaching out through your pores. While it is important to be careful not to put toxic chemicals on you skin (especially since we absorb around 60% of any liquid or cream applied to our skin), remember when you put chemicals into your body you will see the results on your skin. Hypersensitive skin, like a hypersensitive immune system, is a sign of poor health.
OLM endorses Pure Moroccan Argan Oil for more than just shaving. This is truly an amazing oil and we will be doing a product highlight on it in the next issue. Check out their website to see how versatile this unique moisturizer is.
OLM endorses Terressentials, their whole line of products! Every ingredient is organic. If you want to ensure your skin is not absorbing any toxins while you wash, shave, or moisturize, we know of no better skin care line on the market. You could eat this stuff! Seriously! Just read the ingredients!
OLM endorses the Handmade Anti-Microbial Shaving Brush. Badgers are killed for their hairs so that people can have a closer shave. This is an excellent alternative for vegans and people who don’t like killing animals for no reason.
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