Lifestyle

HOW TO GET A CLOSE SHAVE

April 7, 2023 by Jack

How to Get a Close Shave

Did you ever catch yourself shopping for a new razor, wondering whether you should splurge on the one with more blades to get the closest shave possible? Don’t feel bad; that’s the intended effect. It's Not About the Razor 


The reality is more blades do not equal a closer shave. A larger quantity of blades can cause more irritation because it becomes easier to push hairs (and buildup) deep into the skin, leading to common shaving problems such as razor bumps, ingrown hairs, and severe razor burn. However, at the end of the day, when it comes to achieving a clean and polished result, it all comes down to technique, investing in a quality razor, and using the correct shaving products


So, forget about what you’ve heard. Read on to find out how to get a close shave while keeping your skin healthy at the same time. 


How to Get a Close Shave

  • Before the Shave

Clean skin is the catalyst behind every close, comfortable shave — no matter the skin type. Otherwise, dirt, oil, and dead skin cells create a barrier between your blade and your facial hair, which can cause irritation and razor burn. Our Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser leaves skin clean, hydrated, and fresh by harnessing the power of natural, sulfate-free surfactants and organic botanical extracts, including Organic Chamomile and Aloe Leaf. 


Additionally, you will want a protective barrier between your skin and the blade to prevent irritation. We suggest a pre-shave oil such as Jack Black’s MP 10 Nourishing Oil. Ten nourishing oils work together to help protect the skin, soften whiskers and help prevent uncomfortable dryness from shaving — this is a particularly vital step when shaving with sensitive skin


  • During the Shave

Apply Supreme Cream Triple Cushion Shave Lather or Beard Lube Conditioning Shave to smooth and soften whiskers for a more effortless glide.

Hold your Jack Black The Closer 5-Blade Shave Razor at a 30° angle. Use long, even strokes and move the razor toward hair growth – aka “with the grain.”

For an extremely close shave, re-lather your face and shave gently against the grain – slow and steady!


  • After the Shave

Applying our Post-Shave Cooling Gel is one of the most effective ways to help razor burn and irritation due to shaving. prevent redness and heal irritated skin post-shaving. This fragrance-free and alcohol-free formula soothes razor burn and irritation due to shaving. Aloe Leaf Juice and Chamomile, natural ingredients known for their soothing benefits, help calm and hydrate.


As a preventative measure, Jack Black’s Bump Fix is a powerful multi-acid solution that helps heal and prevent razor bumps, ingrown hairs, blackheads, and acne blemishes, while hydrating ingredients help minimize dryness. It’s formulated to exfoliate dead skin cells and dissolve the pore-clogging facial oils that lead to acne blemishes, razor bumps, and ingrown hairs.


Like Bump Fix, shaving is a form of exfoliation, making your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Our Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20 is a must when headed out during the day. This lightweight, emollient formula provides hydration and helps improve the skin’s overall appearance. Broad-spectrum SPF 20 with antioxidants helps protect the skin from environmental stress.


FAQs

  • Should You Shave Before or After A Shower?

To ensure maximum comfort, shave immediately after showering. The steam opens up your pores, causing hair follicles to soften, making it easier to achieve a clean, close, and pleasant shave that requires fewer passes. 


  • Do You Shave With or Against the Grain?

As mentioned, you will want to start your shave going with the grain. However, for a really close result, re-lather your face and shave gently against the grain – slow and steady to prevent nicks, cuts, razor burn, or ingrown hairs.


  • How Often Should You Change Your Razor? 

Dull blades and bacteria buildup can trap dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Change your blade weekly or after every fifth shave to ensure a close shave. Worn-out razors can also cause cuts, nicks, and ingrown hairs.

Whether you’ve been shaving for years or even decades, it’s never too late to pick up a few tricks of the trade to help you perfect the process. To make it easier, try our shaving products to ensure a closer, smoother shave each time.