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Shave Like A Champion

Written by Advice Team on August 17, 2016

Like many worthwhile things in life, electric shaving can take some time to get used to. But with the right tools, a good pre-prep routine, a well-honed technique and a little bit of perseverance you’ll achieve a clean, close, comfortable shave worthy of a photo finish every day!

Our experts have put together 5 simple steps that will keep your electric shaver working at optimum performance and help you get the most from your shaver, day in and day out for the full lifespan of the product.

1. The right tools When it comes to electric shavers there are a lot of options on the market; wet or dry, mains or battery, rotary or foil, budget or premium. If you’re an electric shaving virgin, choosing the right electric shaver can be a daunting task, but fear not! We have something to suit, no matter what your preference, priority and price point and loads of advice to help you choose your perfect electric shaver.

If you need some guidance, check out today’s best selling electric shavers split by popular price brackets. Compiled by our expert team based on what’s selling right now it’s a sure-fire way of quickly finding models that other customers with a similar budget consider to be a good option.

Expert tip: All makes and models are different so always read your new shavers manufacturer’s manual. It will contain guidelines, hints and tips for getting the best from your specific model, so well worth 10 minutes of your time.

2. Be prepared When it comes to achieving a top quality shave with an electric shaver, preparation is the key to success.

Unless you’re using a wet and dry electric shaver you'll achieve a noticeably smoother electric shave and less redness and skin irritation if your stubble is clean and bone dry. Prep your stubble using a talc based pre-electric shave product such as the Blocmen Powder Stick collection to absorb sweat and natural oils and straighten the beard hair ready for cutting. Good prep = a smooth, comfortable glide and a close shave so don’t scrimp!

Expert tip: If you have particularly sensitive skin go for an Aloe Vera pre-shave product for additional protection against irritation and to help soothe the skin.

3. Get your technique down Like with anything new, there’s a learning curve when it comes to electric shaving and it’s important to take the time to hone your technique. Once you’ve got your shaving routine nailed your morning shave will become super easy and ultra quick so it’s worth persevering.

Electric shavers are split into two types – foil and rotary. Both types utilise a different method to remove hair so it’s important to know what camp your shaver falls into and and optimise your shave by using the right motion and movement. When using a foil shaver work in straight, long back-and-forth strokes over the face and neck. Conversely make small circular motions when using a rotary shaver.

Using your dominant hand hold the shaver at a right angle to your face, and use your free hand to pull your skin taut as you shave so the hairs stand upright. Work methodically so that you don’t unnecessarily go over the same area repeatedly. Unlike a typical wet shave with a blade, don’t be afraid to shave against the grain of the hair, an electric shaver will not snag or irritate in the same way, in fact shaving against the grain can help the hair better stand on end for an improved cut.

Experiment with moving the shaver at different speeds in order to allow the cutters time to capture the hair and perform a cut. You may find it better to move the shaver more slowly at the beginning of the shave, while the beard is thicker and speed up more towards the end once the majority of the hair is cut.

Expert tip: Shavers generate heat so get hotter the longer they are in use so shave the most tender areas of your face (generally the neck area below the jawbone) first while the shaver head is coolest.

Electric shaving is very drying on the skin which can leave your face feeling tight, flaky and uncomfortable. Always apply an alcohol and fragrance-free post-shave product to your newly shaved face to soothe and hydrate the skin.

4. Give it time Patience is a virtue with any kind of shaving technique but it’s especially important when it comes to electric shaving, especially if you've been using a wet razor all your life. With  every razor blade shave you remove a thin layer of skin which results in the body producing replacement scar tissue. You don’t produce this scar tissue with electric shaving so you need two to three weeks adjustment time during which you may experience some mild irritation, but stick with it.

Expert tip: Tempting as it may be don’t fluctuate back and forth between blade shaving and electric shaving or your skin will never fully adjust and you won’t ever achieve the benefits electric shaving has to offer.

5. Keep your shaver in tip-top condition A well looked after and properly maintained shaver will perform better and will increase the lifespan of the product so it’s a no brainer to keep your shaver in tip top condition.

Debris can easily build up, especially if you have thick facial hair so get into the habit of using the cleaning brush provided with the shaver to remove any dust from the cutters and foil after every shave.

Expert tip: Do not bang your shaver against the sink as it may dent or damage the shaver or it’s delicate parts

For foil shavers lift the head frame off and gently brushing out the whiskers from the under side with the cleaning brush supplied by the manufacturer. Do not touch the foil because it is very fragile.

Expert tip: While you’re cleaning give the foil of your shaver a quick once over for holes. Holes though rare do happen and will give you a nasty cut if they go undetected.

Rotary head shavers can be cleaned by lifting off the razor head assembly and brushing out the under side of the three cutters and the razor chamber.

Every few weeks give the shaver a complete and thorough cleansing. Take the shaver head apart and brush out each blade separately before soaking specialised cleaning solution to remove accumulated grease, grime and debris from the blades and associated parts.

After you clean your shaver, lubricate the metal pieces of your cutter and screen. Spray a small amount of lubricating oil on the shaving screen while the shaver is running and leave it on.

Expert tip: Never use a lubricant meant for other tools on your shaver as it may contain harsh chemicals that may damage your skin.

In order to get a good, clean shave and avoid snagging, which causes razor burn and irritation it is important to ensure your blades are sharp. We recommend that you replace your blades or foils at least once a year.

So that’s it, follow these quick and easy steps and keep your shaver working at optimum performance and you in peak condition.