Dry shaving with an electric shaver isn't ideal for everyone. Wet shaving may be your best option for sensitive skin or coarse hair. Experiment to see if your skin or hair type can take a dry shave. I remember dry shaving with my rotary shaver, and the back of my neck started burning up after shaving.
Without question shaving with lather and wet razor will be a better shave. Wet shave also exfoliates your skin which is healthy for skin. The electric razor just does not get as close nor lasts as long as a wet shave with a razor.
Although modern electric shavers can be used wet or dry, I personally get best results shaving dry first thing before wetting my face or showering. If you live in a humid climate keeping your face dry while shaving will be more difficult and the drag between your skin and the foil will increase skin irritation.
Hold the shaver at a right angle (90°) to your skin and shave against the direction of beard growth. Also, remember not to shave the same areas repeatedly to reduce the risk of skin irritation. Keep the pressure even to get the best possible shave. You don't have to press as hard as you would with a manual razor.
Approach from the right angle
And by the right angle, we mean literally a right angle. Holding the shaver at right angles to your face gives your free hand more space to pull the skin taut as you shave, meaning that the hairs will stand more upright and be easier to remove.
Ensure your skin is well-cleansed, devoid of excess oils, and adequately moisturized. This not only facilitates a smoother glide but also minimizes the potential for any discomfort. Navigating Wet Dry Shavers:For those equipped with wet dry shavers, a realm of versatility opens up.
Unless you're using one of the new breed of wet and dry shavers – which can be used with or without water – you'll get much better results from an electric shaver if your stubble is bone dry and stiff. To make sure it's free of dirt and sebum (the skin's natural oil) use an alcohol-based pre-electric shave product.
Electric shavers help capture hair without pulling and tugging at the skin, which reduces skin irritation. Newer technologies in the shaving industry also mean that common problems — skin discomfort or irritation associated with shaving — are reduced.
Shaving before showering
This is, quite simply, because most electric shavers work best on dry hair; it is often harder to manage your hair with an electric model if your hair is wet or even slightly damp.
The answer that any professional will give you: in the morning, and on an empty stomach! This is because your skin, like you, has slept through the night and is not yet awake. The blood circulates slowly, which limits the risk of cuts.
Aftercare. After your shave, rinse your skin with warm water and pat it dry (don't rub). Then apply a moisturizer or aftershave balm, just avoid anything alcohol-based as it may cause irritation.
Our top recommendation, the Philips Lady Shaver Series 6000, delivers smooth and consistent results that mimic those of a manual shaver. The rounded shaving head expertly hugs your body's curves, even in delicate areas like the bikini line and underarms.
The butterfly safety razor utilizes a twist-to-open mechanism head to make changing the blade easy and convenient.
Recognize that acclimating to electric shaving might take time. When you switch from a manual razor to an electric shaver, it may take 1-2 weeks for you and your skin to adjust and achieve the close shave you are accustomed to .
Blades on an electric shaver should typically be replaced every 12 to 18 months, depending on how often you use the shaver and the coarseness of your hair. Keeping the blades sharp is crucial for a close and comfortable shave.
If you have the time for a wet shave, wash your face with a cleanser and plenty of warm water to soften the hair and get rid of excess oil. You can even apply an alcohol-based pre-shave product to achieve dry skin. Regular baby powder will do the trick too.
The less close shave can be comfortable for some – Depending on your skin's sensitivity, a dry shave may not only be faster, but it could allow for less irritation since the blade is not as close to the skin as it is when wet shaving.
Using shaving cream also may help protect your skin from cuts and irritation. If you're nervous about cutting yourself, you can try an electric razor instead.
- Electric shavers rarely give as close a shave as regular razors, so if you're looking for a truly smooth shave, you might want to stick to the classics. You'll also probably have to shave a lot more regularly to keep the stubble at bay if you're going electric.
If shaving with a wet face is something you can't live without, many electric shavers like the Braun Series 9 Pro can be used with shaving foam and in the shower.
As I said before, pretty much all electric shavers perform better when your facial hair is short. And that will certainly be the case with everyday shaving, even if your beard grows pretty fast. This also means that you can get away with a more basic shaver and get decent results.
Aftershave balm is purpose built for soothing the skin. If you're prone to razor burn then it's a good idea to go for alcohol and fragrance free balms.