The 5 secrets to a perfect shave

Shaving one’s beard is a ritual of the traditional Italian barbershop that has made a comeback in recent years. Even at home, shaving is no longer a necessity but an opportunity for a man to dedicate time to himself and his well-being.
From the experience of our barbers, here is our advice for a perfect DIY shave. A few simple steps are enough to achieve a clean, effective, and irritation-free shave.

1. If it’s long, trim it
If you have a medium-to-long beard, first of all, you should trim it a little with the help of an electric shaver: this will make it easier for the razor blade to glide through!

2. Don’t underestimate the prep work
Preparing the beard for shaving is fundamental, especially if you have sensitive skin. Wash your face with warm water so that the hairs soften and the skin pores open; then apply the pre-shave oil to the areas you will be shaving and gently massage your face with circular motions. The essential oils that make up the pre-shave oil significantly hydrate the skin, making it more elastic and reducing the risk of irritation. Furthermore, they create a protective film and facilitate the gliding of the razor.

3. Lather up like a man

Did you know that when shaving, our barbers spend most of their time lathering? This is the key step in achieving a perfect shave.

With the help of a brush and a little water, work up a lather with the shaving soap and lather your face, working energetically on the chin and mustache as the hair in these areas grows thicker. To distribute the foam down to the roots, proceed with circular motions for several minutes.

4. Don’t go against the grain
At home, no one thinks about it, but the main cause of irritation is shaving against the grain. Always remember to use the razor delicately, working in sections and always following the direction of hair growth. If necessary, use your fingers to stretch the skin.

Only once you have finished shaving following the direction of growth—and only if you are already experienced with a razor and do not have overly sensitive skin—can you proceed with shaving against the grain.

5. Finish what you started
Unlike in our barbershops, people at home tend to be in a rush and overlook the importance of the post-shave routine. After shaving, rinse your face with cold water and pat dry with a soft cloth. Provide relief to your skin with a soothing aftershave balm: it will serve to tone, hydrate, and soothe—three very important actions that make the skin on your face smooth, soft, and fragrant.