Wet Shaving 101: How To Get The Perfect Shave

There are several steps to traditional shaving, and you can follow it precisely or remix it to your own liking. Here are the safest and easiest ways to get the perfect shave:

1. Preparation

Soft skin & hairs will make the job easiest. Take a hot shower or apply a warm towel to your skin. This opens the pores and softens the hair & skin. On days that you’re not shaving, you can use facial scrub or facial wash to exfoliate your skin. But don’t exfoliate on shaving day as it can increase skin irritation.

For an extra-close shave (or if you have sensitive skin), you can use a shaving oil or pre-shave cream for an extra layer of protection. It’s also useful to soften the beard and prepare it for shaving. To reap the full benefit of it, you must allow it to soak in for a full minute before you apply your lather.

2. Form a Lather

You can do this in a bowl, mug, or directly on your face with your shaving brush. This lifts the hairs off the face to help provide a super close shave.

Depending on what type of brush you have, you may need to pre-soak it. If you’re using a natural brush (such as boar hair or badger hair), leave it to soak in warm water for a few minutes so that it will absorb the moisture. If you have a synthetic hair brush, just dip it into warm water and let it soak for a few seconds and then allow the excess water to drip off. Remember, your brush just needs to be damp, not soaking wet.

Now, start working the soap or cream in a circular motion until a thick lather is created. This can take between 30 seconds and 2 minutes depending on your skill level and the product you’re using. If the lather is dry or not creamy enough, you can add a couple drops of water to it and try again until you get the desired texture.

3. Shave

First, warm your razor in the sink with hot water so that it glides easily across the skin. You’ll want to shave with the grain, across the grain, and then against the grain. You can re-lather between passes for a smooth shave.

Bonus Tips:

• Keeping your blade at roughly a 30 degree angle will ensure that your shave is comfortable and consistent. Adjust to the contours of your face so that you won’t need to do any extra passes (which can lead to irritation).
• Rinse the blade under hot water after each pass to ensure it stays clean. Too much debris on the razor can inhibit its ability to cut your stubble cleanly.
• Always re-lather before you go over an area again. Shaving over the same area without lathering again can lead to skin irritation.

4. Post-Shave

Rinse your face with cold water to remove any stray lather & hairs. Now, you can rinse in cold water to close your pores and reduce irritation and redness. Dry your face and finish it off with an after shave balm. This will soothe and protect the skin from the elements.

5. Discover Products You Love

Once you discover products you love, you maximize the shaving experience. Our shaving soap is top of the food chain and will perform during your shaving ritual as well as hours afterward.

Zingari Man’s products have had years of experience and formulations to bring to market for you. Our formulas are made with expertise and care with your skin health as our main concern. Browse our collection of wet shaving products now - your skin will thank you!