Get a Flawless Shave Head
Many men opt for the shave head look. Whether you are balding or just going for a look that is always in style, here are some tips on how to get a flawless and clean shave head.
Step 1: Trimming
The first thing you will want to do once you decide to keep a shave head is to purchase a good quality trimmer. This usually costs under $100, and will last for years. Set the trimmer on the shortest setting possible, and remove the guard if needed. Beginning at the nape of your neck, guide the trimmer over your scalp to the front of your head. Make sure you trim your neck, sideburns, and around your ears as well. You will want to trim your hair as short until it is stubble. There is no need to attempt a perfectly even cut, just a short one. After you have trimmed, run your hands over your head to check for any spots you missed and trim as needed.
Step 2: Prepping
You will want to make sure your hair is soft prior to shaving. To do this, stand in the shower and get your hair as wet as possible with the water being as hot as you can tolerate it. You can also wet a towel with warm water, wring it, and then wrap on your head for a couple of minutes. This will prevent ingrown hairs and razor bumps.
Step 3: Shaving
Once you have softened your hair it is time to begin shaving. Liberally apply shaving gel to your head and allow it to penetrate for a few moments. Place the blade of your razor against your scalp and shave in the direction of hair growth, starting with the softest and lightest hair first. Take your time and use even and slow strokes with the razor. To avoid irritation and nicks, pass over your scalp only once. Rinse your blade in between passes to remove hair and shave gel. Once you have finished shaving, wipe your head with a cool towel to remove excess hair and shaving gel. You will want to apply lotions that contain Aloe and Vitamin E. your fresh shave head to prevent irritation and to protect the newly exposed skin. You can also use after shave products, but avoid ones that contain alcohol. While going outdoors, apply a SPF15 based moisturizer to your head.
Why You Need a Shaving Brush
A shaving brush is your most important tool for getting a great shave. Yet, it’s often overlooked. Rather than rubbing shave cream on your face with your fingers, invest in a brush that prepares your face for the closest shave you’ve had in your life. A shaving brush is what separates the men from the boys.
What does it do?
A shaving brush is much more than a stick with whiskers. A solid brush is made from genuine badger whiskers. Cheaper alternatives come from boar hair. Once you dip your brush in hot water and mix with shaving cream, an interesting thing happens. The brush mixes the shaving cream and water to create a thick lather that not only covers your face, but exfoliates and removes dead skin. The badger hair lifts your facial hair and suspends it in the thick lather giving you the closest shave of your life. The suspended hair is sliced by your razor at a closer distance that you would without using a brush.
How much does it cost?
A badger shaving brush runs you anywhere from $15 to $600. The large difference in price is due to the amount of badger hair on the brush and the method of production. You don’t need expenses badger shaving brushes to get the job done. More expensive brushes tend to retain more water and produce more lather. The difference is negligible.
How do I use it?
To offset the difference in price simply shave a small section at a time. For instance, lather your right cheek with your shaving brush and concentrate your efforts on one area. When you’re done, simply wipe the finished area and move on to a new area of your face.
Final thoughts
Take your shave to the next level and invest in a badger shaving brush. A solid brush will increase the amount of lather you produce and give you a close, smooth shave. Save money by purchasing an average costing brush. Make up for the difference by shaving small areas at a time. Remember, the details are what make the man.