Step 1 - Prep your face

Always shave after a shower, steam or bath. Otherwise rinse a clean face towel with warm to hot water, ring it of water and place it on your face for 2 minutes - reheating as necessary.

The heat and moisture will help to relax your face muscles, while the warm water will be absorbed into the hair causing it to expand and soften. Both will help toward a smoother, more comfortable shave.

For tough beards and for those with sensitive skin, apply a pre shave softener. This will provide an additional barrier between your skin and your blade, and will help further soften your hairs in preparation for shaving.

Step 2 - Apply lubricant

If using a brush:

Work up a lather with warm water either in a shaving bowl or the palm of your hand. Apply lather to the face using gentle strokes to stimulate the skin and raise the stubble.

If using hands:

Work up a lather with some warm water in the palm of your hand. Apply the product with the three fore fingers in a gentle circular motion over the beard area.

Be generous in your application of your chosen shaving product. They help to prevent the moisture absorbed by the hair from evaporating by forming a protective barrier.

Step 3 - Shave

Warm the razor under some water. Commence shaving from the hair line in front of the ears and shave the cheek areas first; follow by shaving the upper lip, the chin and finally the neck. This order will ensure that the sensitive areas, the neck, and those with the toughest hair growth are exposed to the softening effects of your pre-shave and shaving lubricant for longer.

Shave in the direction of your hair growth and be gentle when using your razor. Excess pressure will only irritate skin and lead to razor burn. Remember to wash the blade frequently during shaving to avoid any build up of hairs and shaving lubricant.

Step 4 - Post Shave

After shaving, splash the face with cold water and rinse off any lubricant that might be left over. Dab the face dry with a clean hand towel and follow by applying a non-alcohol based toner and/or after-shave balm.