How to Shave

Steps

1. Wash and exfoliate the area with warm water and soap immediately before shaving. This helps slough off dead skin cells, so that you don't end up using blades to move them aside when they could be focused solely on cutting hairs. The warm water softens the existing hair and encourages the pores to open, making for a closer shave. And the soap eliminates bacteria, which is itching to get into your freshly shaven pores and cause irritation or even infection.
2. Apply some kind of lubricant, preferably shaving cream. Shaving skin directly with a razor is a no-no. The razor should never contact your skin without some kind of lubricant mediating the encounter. Shaving cream softens the hair and moisturizes the skin, but if you're in a pinch, you can also shave with conditioner or even with soap (only if you're really in a pinch).
3. Take additional precautions against razor burn, that rash of unsightly bumps and red inflammation that signifies your skin didn't like your shaving technique. It tends to occur in more sensitive areas of the skin, such as the underarms and the face, and can even upgrade into an infection that'll make future shaving even more difficult. Luckily, by practicing good shaving technique and using the right products, it can be avoided.
4. Find out about special considerations for each area you intend to shave. There are key differences you have to take into account when you're shaving your head, vs. shaving your legs, vs. shaving your face. How you shave will vary based on the thickness of the hair, the condition of the skin (oily? dry? tough? delicate?), and the direction in which the hair grows. These factors also depend on your individual body type, so experiment with various techniques and see what works best for you.
5. Choose the appropriate shaving implement and learn how to use it properly. Some prefer disposable razors, others swear by using an electric shaver, and others still prefer to shave with an old-fashioned straight razor. Whichever you decide to use, research the proper technique and do it right.

Tips

• Shave often. Once every couple days to keep your hairs from thickening and establishing. The more consistently you shave, the better the quality of your shaves will be, and the better your complexion: Shaving removes dead skin and keeps pores from clogging.
• Rinse and dry your equipment thoroughly, and store in a dry place.
• For an extra thick beard you can use a warm face cloth compress to soften it in addition to a warm shower prior to shaving. Change blades as necessary, as they will dull much quicker than with a thin beard.
• Whether you use a blade, or an electric shaver, it is necessary to apply more pressure than the ads on TV would lead you to believe! Your shave will be much closer with a little extra pressure.

Warnings

• Do not rush. Take your time and do it right. Your face will thank you.
• Do not forget to change your blades when dull. A dull blade will leave your face feeling raw and sore, and is much more likely to cause razor burn.
• Avoid soap-based shave creams and alcohol-based aftershaves. They will over-dry your skin.

Things You'll Need

• A good razor.
• A shaving brush.(possibly)
• A good moisturizing shaving cream.
• A non-alcohol based aftershave balm/moisturizer.
• A well-lit bathroom mirror.
• A clean towel and face cloth.
• Plenty of fresh blades.
• An exfoliating face wash, depending on skin condition.