Shaving might be a mundane task that most men do every day, but it is not something that should be taken lightly. A bit of effort put into your shaving routine can do wonders for your skin and make the experience much more enjoyable. Turning your morning chore into a spa-like indulgence is easy with these simple tips.

1. Take a HOT Shower

We all know the benefits of hot showers to wake us up in the morning, but steam can actually help to prepare your skin for shaving. Steam can cause the pores on your face to relax and soften, making it easier for the razor to glide across your face.

2. Soften Your Beard

While in the shower, apply a generous coating of hair conditioner into your beard and work it in with your fingertips. Let the conditioner stay on your beard for a couple of minutes, allowing it to soften the hair on your face.

3. Use a Pre-Shave Oil

Once you get out of the shower, your beard and the skin underneath it will be soft and supple. By applying a layer of pre-shave oil, you can help to keep it that way by locking in the moisture. In addition, oil helps to lubricate the blade as it moves across the contours of your face, reducing nicks and irritation.

4. Use a Sharp Blade

Using a sharp blade is crucial to getting a smooth and comfortable shave. Whether you rock a straight-edge blade, DE safety razor, or a disposable blade, make sure that it is sharp. Change blades as soon as they start to drag across your beard as opposed to gliding smoothly. Most disposable blades are only good for a week’s worth of shaving, sometimes less.

5. Apply a High-Quality Shaving Cream

Ditch that old can of Barbasol and pick up a high-quality shaving cream made with all-natural ingredients that will not only improve your shave but also nourish your skin. Avoid any product that contains parabens or silicone. If you want a real treat, try using a high-quality badger or boar hair shaving brush to get a really good lather going.

6. Use Short Strokes

There is a common shaving misconception that it is better to make long, continuous strokes, from upper cheek to the bottom of your neck. In actuality, you are better off with short precise strokes which allow you to better control the amount of downward pressure you are placing on your razor, which helps limit irritation.

7. First, Shave with the Grain

On your first run, shave in the direction of your hair growth. This will help you to remove the bulk of the hair and cause minimal irritation.

8. Then Shave Across and Against the Grain

After your initial shave, reapply shaving cream and completely clean your razor before shaving across the grain and then finally against the grain for a super close shave that might just keep your five o’clock shadow at bay for a few extra hours.

9. Rinse Your Face with Cold Water

Remove any remaining shaving cream or pre-shave oil by splashing your face with cold water, which will close your pores and tighten the skin of your face.

10. Use an Alum Block

Alum block is a mild antiseptic that will help to instantly seal any minor cuts while cooling and refreshing your skin. Wet that alum block and gently run it across your freshly shaved face and prepare to feel every spot that you nicked just moments earlier.

11. Apply a Toner

Splash a little witch hazel or any other high-quality toner onto your skin and wipe it off with a cotton pad to remove any excess oils form your skin.

12. Moisturize

If your skin feels dry after your shaving routine, be sure to apply a moisturizer, preferably one with SPF protection to the dry areas and work it in gently with your fingertips.

In conclusion, shaving might seem like a menial task, but it is an important part of our morning routine. By following these simple tips, we can turn it into a spa-like indulgence that does wonders for our skin. Remember to take care of your skin, and it will take care of you.