10 Tips For Your Best Shave Yet
Body hair is natural and beautiful. It’s our choice whether to remove it or not. Either way, we think it’s time we changed the approach. If you do decide shaving is for you, there are a few ways to achieve velvety-smoothness. While many of us first started shaving as early teens and have come to accept razor burn, bumps and ingrown hairs to be part of the at-home hair removal experience, it doesn’t have to be this way. Follow these ten tips for your most long-lasting and silkiest shave yet.
1. INVEST IN A QUALITY RAZOR YOU LOVE TO USE
A great shave begins with great tools. We spent three-and-a-half years developing the RAZOR to elevate your shave. Ergonomically designed to sit comfortably in your hand, the soft-touch grip and perfectly weighted handle provides control and precision. Five diamond-sharp blades, enclosed in a moisturising Vitamin E cushion, make for an exceptionally close shave while rehydrating the skin. Taking inspiration from the fluidity of our bodies, the Razor is informed by female shaving.
2. SHAVE IN THE DIRECTION OF HAIR GROWTH AND THEN AGAINST IT
Many of us think that shaving against the grain gives a closer shave, but this can cause regrowth to curl back into the follicle, resulting in ingrown hairs and inflammation. Instead, begin by shaving in the direction of hair growth to ‘trim’ the hair down as close as possible to the skin. This also gives the skin ample time to moisten and soften. After you’ve done this, then shave against the grain to finish off.
3. PERFECT YOUR TECHNIQUE
The key here is taking your time. Shave with long and gentle strokes, applying a light amount of pressure. If you find yourself really needing to push down, it may be time to change your razor head. Which conveniently leads into our next point...
4. REPLACE YOUR RAZOR HEAD OFTEN
Dull blades are a recipe for disaster. If your blade isn’t sharp enough, it will drag across the skin and you’ll have to go over the same area again and again. This can lead to irritation, razor burn, nicks, cuts and ingrowns. Worse yet, overused razor blades can become contaminated with dead skin cells and bacteria, potentially causing infection or break-outs. We recommend replacing your refill blade after 6-8 shaves. You can purchase our REFILL BLADE SET on a subscription basis to ensure you always have a smooth, close shave.
5. EXFOLIATE REGULARLY
Ingrown hairs are caused when hair becomes trapped underneath the skin’s surface. The hair has no follicle to grow out of, so it curls back into the skin. Regular exfoliation (1-3 times a week) nudges ingrown hairs out of the follicle and gently buffs away the dead skin cells, excess sebum, dirt and grime which would clog them in the first place.
6. USE A NOURISHING SHAVE CREAM
Dry shaving causes micro-trauma to the skin, damaging the skin’s barrier and potentially leading to the fungal condition folliculitis, ingrown hairs, rashes, irritation and dryness.
It’s important to use a formulation created specifically for shaving (not a body wash or hair conditioner!). We created the SHAVE CREAM to not only protect the skin during shaving, but give back to it. A luxurious, pH-balanced antioxidant formulation, it contains Shea Butter that softens the hair follicle and skin, while Aloe Vera and Avocado Oil soothe and calm. Our nourishing blend of plant-based bioactive oils help to hydrate and illuminate. The subtle fragrance of orange blossom, iris and vetiver creates a beautiful sensory experience.
7. SHAVE WITH WARM WATER
Hot water is incredibly drying and strips the skin of its natural oils and moisture, so turn the tap down – just a little. Good news if you’re in a bath: submerging in warm water will soften your hair, making it easier to shave. And if you’re showering? The steam will gently open your pores.
8. CLEAN YOUR RAZOR BLADES
Razor blades can become clogged with hair, your shave cream product and dead skin cells. Rinse your razor blade often while you’re shaving, in between every few strokes, for an even, easy shave.
9. AIR DRY YOUR RAZOR
Leaving your razor submerged in its own pool of water in a damp, humid shower or bath recess is as unappealing as it sounds. This can cause the blades to rust and become home to bacteria. To make your razor last, give the blades a thorough rinse after shaving and store it outside of the shower. Luckily, the RAZOR is one you’ll actually want to keep on display alongside your other gorgeously curated skincare and beauty products. Oh, and don’t try to dry your razor with a towel or tissue (this can damage the blade); air drying is the best answer.
10. THINK OF SHAVING AS A RITUAL
We believe shaving should be a more beautiful experience. Up until now hair removal was considered a chore, but we’re here to change that: we think shaving deserves a place in the self-care routine. So we’ve created conscious products that elevate your daily beauty ritual while considering body and planet. It doesn’t hurt that they look great while doing it.