Wet Shaving 101: Razor, Soap, and Aftershave
Cartridge razors are fine. They’re also why most guys deal with razor burn, ingrown hairs, and a medicine cabinet full of products trying to fix a problem the razor itself is causing. Wet shaving — a proper razor, real prep, and technique — solves most of that, and it’s less complicated than it looks.
The Razor
A quality safety razor or a well-maintained cartridge razor with fresh blades both work — what matters more than the razor type is blade sharpness. Cartridge blades should be replaced every 5-7 shaves; a dull blade is the single biggest cause of irritation, more than any product or technique issue.
The Prep (This Is the Part Everyone Skips)
- Shave after a shower, or wet your face with warm water for a full minute. Warm water softens the hair and opens pores — shaving dry or cold-water hair is asking for irritation.
- Apply a pre-shave oil if your skin runs dry or sensitive. This adds a layer of slip under the lather.
- Use a proper shaving soap or cream, not foam from a can. Canned foam dries out fast and offers minimal cushion; a real lather (built with a brush if you want to go further) actually protects your skin.
The Technique
- Shave with the grain first (the direction your hair grows), not against it — save against-the-grain passes for a closer second pass once your skin is used to shaving.
- Short strokes, light pressure. Let the blade do the work; pressing harder just increases irritation.
- Rinse the blade after every stroke to keep it clear.
The Aftershave
Skip anything with heavy alcohol content if you have sensitive skin — it feels intense but often does more harm than good. An alcohol-free aftershave balm calms irritation and closes pores without the sting. Apply cold water to your face first to close pores before the aftershave goes on.
Common Mistakes
- Shaving with a dull blade to “save money” — you’ll spend more on products treating irritation than you saved on blades
- Rushing through prep because you’re running late
- Going against the grain on every pass instead of easing into it
- Skipping aftershave entirely, which leaves pores open and skin unprotected
Want a complete starter kit that covers all of this in one purchase? Check out our Starter Shaving Kit — razor, soap, and aftershave, sorted.