title: “The Best Pre & Post-Shave Routine for Men: Prevent Razor Burn & Keep Skin Looking Its Best”
excerpt: “Learn the best shaving routine for men, from pre-shave prep to post-shave care, to prevent razor burn and keep skin smooth and healthy.”
coverImage: “/images/categories/cleansers/best-pre-post-shave-routine-for-men.jpg”
date: “2025-03-05”
updatedDate: “2025-03-07”
author:
name: “Justin Musterman”
picture: “/images/authors/justin-musterman.jpg”
tags: [“mens-skincare”, “shaving-routine”, “razor-burn”, “post-shave-care”, “best-mens-moisturizers”]
category: “shaving”
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title: “Best Pre & Post-Shave Routine for Men | SkincarePlans”
description: “Discover the ultimate shaving routine for men, including pre-shave prep and post-shave care to prevent razor burn and keep your skin looking its best.”
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Shaving is more than just a grooming ritual—it’s an essential part of skincare. If done incorrectly, shaving can cause irritation, razor burn, ingrown hairs, and dryness.
This guide will walk you through the perfect pre- and post-shave routine to ensure a smooth, irritation-free shave while keeping your skin hydrated and healthy.
Pre-Shave Routine: Preparing Your Skin for a Smooth Shave
The key to a great shave starts before you even pick up the razor. Here’s how to prep your skin to minimize irritation.
1️⃣ Start with a Warm Shower or Warm Compress
🔥 Why It’s Important:
- Softens facial hair for less resistance when shaving
- Opens up pores for a smoother glide
💡 Pro Tip: If you don’t have time for a shower, soak a towel in warm water and hold it on your face for 30 seconds.
2️⃣ Exfoliate to Remove Dead Skin & Prevent Ingrown Hairs
🔥 Why It’s Important:
- Removes dead skin cells, allowing for a closer shave
- Helps prevent ingrown hairs
- Reduces razor drag, minimizing irritation
💡 Best Exfoliators for Pre-Shave Prep:
✔ Jack Black Face Buff Energizing Scrub – Clears dead skin & unclogs pores
✔ Brickell Renewing Face Scrub – Gently exfoliates with pumice
📌 How to Use: Apply a dime-sized amount to damp skin and massage gently in circular motions. Rinse with warm water.
3️⃣ Apply a Pre-Shave Oil or Gel
🔥 Why It’s Important:
- Creates a protective layer between the skin and razor
- Reduces friction & irritation
- Softens coarse facial hair
💡 Best Pre-Shave Oils:
✔ The Art of Shaving Pre-Shave Oil – Classic, ultra-conditioning
✔ Proraso Pre-Shave Cream – Great for sensitive skin
📌 How to Use: Apply a few drops, massage into the skin, and wait 30 seconds before applying shaving cream.
4️⃣ Use a High-Quality Shaving Cream (Not Foam!)
🔥 Why It’s Important:
- Provides hydration & lubrication
- Reduces nicks & cuts
- Prevents razor burn
💡 Best Shaving Creams:
✔ Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream – Classic & nourishing
✔ Cremo Barber-Grade Shave Cream – Ultra-slick formula
📌 How to Use: Apply with a shaving brush for even distribution & better lather.
Shaving: Techniques to Avoid Irritation
Now that your skin is prepped, let’s get into how to shave the right way.
1️⃣ Use a Sharp Razor (Change Blades Regularly)
✔ Multi-blade razors = Closer shave but higher irritation risk
✔ Single-blade safety razors = Less irritation, better for sensitive skin
✔ Electric shavers = Great for a quick shave, but not as close
📌 When to Change Blades: Every 5-7 shaves to prevent dullness & bacteria buildup.
2️⃣ Shave with the Grain (First Pass)
✔ Follow the natural hair growth → Less irritation
✔ Use light, short strokes → Avoid pressing too hard
📌 Want an extra-close shave? Lather up again and shave across the grain (never against it).
3️⃣ Rinse Blade After Every Stroke
✔ Prevents clogging & bacteria buildup
✔ Ensures a smoother glide
📌 Use lukewarm water (not hot) to avoid skin irritation.
Post-Shave Routine: Keeping Skin Hydrated & Razor Burn-Free
What you do after shaving is just as important as how you shave.
1️⃣ Rinse with Cold Water
🔥 Why It’s Important:
✔ Closes pores
✔ Reduces redness & irritation
📌 Avoid alcohol-based aftershaves (they dry out skin!).
2️⃣ Apply a Soothing Aftershave Balm
🔥 Why It’s Important:
✔ Hydrates & calms skin
✔ Prevents razor bumps
💡 Best Aftershaves:
✔ Nivea Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm – Soothing & non-greasy; this is maybe Justin’s favorite skin care product, PERIOD.
✔ Baxter of California Aftershave Balm – Cooling & hydrating
📌 How to Use: Apply a nickel-sized amount, gently pat into the skin.
3️⃣ Lock in Moisture with a Face Moisturizer
🔥 Why It’s Important:
✔ Prevents dryness & flaking
✔ Strengthens skin’s barrier
💡 Best Moisturizers for After Shaving:
✔ CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion – Lightweight & fragrance-free
✔ Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20 – Hydrates & protects from sun damage
📌 Always apply SPF in the morning to prevent UV damage.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Shaving Routine for Men
Shaving shouldn’t feel like a chore—it should be a skin-friendly routine. By following these pre & post-shave steps, you’ll prevent razor burn, reduce irritation, and keep your skin smooth & healthy.
Quick Recap:
✔ Pre-Shave: Warm shower, exfoliate, pre-shave oil, quality shaving cream
✔ Shaving: Sharp razor, shave with the grain, rinse blade frequently
✔ Post-Shave: Cold water rinse, aftershave balm, moisturizer
💬 What’s your go-to shaving product? Let us know in the comments!
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