Wet shaving is a beloved art form that spans centuries, and for good reason. It provides a smooth, clean shave and an enjoyable ritual to start or end the day. While wet shaving can be a delightful experience, it can also be intimidating for beginners. Fear not because we are here to guide you through the process with a few essential tips for the correct razor angle and pressure you should use while wet shaving. The right technique will ensure you get the best possible shave without any nicks or irritation.
The Right Razor Angle Matters
The first step to a successful wet shave is finding the right angle at which to hold your razor. Using the correct angle will guide your razor seamlessly across your skin, remove stubble without irritation, and provide a close, comfortable shave. This angle can differ for each individual, but a universally accepted angle to start with is approximately 30 degrees.
To find the perfect angle, begin by placing the razor head flat against your skin with the handle parallel to the floor. Slowly move the handle downward while maintaining contact with the skin. Pay attention to the point when the blade just begins to cut hairs. This is your ideal razor angle. It may take some practice to get a feel for this angle, but once you find it, your shaving experience will dramatically improve.
Less Pressure, Better Results
There’s a common misconception that applying more pressure when wet shaving will result in a closer shave. This is far from the truth. In fact, applying too much pressure can lead to skin irritation, razor burn, and an all-around unsatisfactory experience. We cannot stress enough the importance of gentle, minimal pressure during a wet shave.
Instead of pushing the razor into your skin, let the weight of the razor do the work for you. Allow the blade to glide across your skin with a light touch, feeling the contours of your face and adjusting accordingly. With this technique, you’ll get a smoother and more comfortable shave and notice a significant reduction in nicks and irritation.
Maintaining Your Equipment
While proper razor angle and pressure are critical aspects of wet shaving, maintaining your equipment is just as crucial. A dull blade is likely to cause irritation and an uneven shave. To prevent this, change your blade every 3–7 shaves or when you begin to feel it tugging at your hair. Additionally, keep your razor clean by rinsing it thoroughly after each use and air-drying it on a stand. This will preserve your razor’s functionality and help extend its lifespan.
If you don’t have the equipment you need to keep your razor in good condition, check out our selection of wet shave kits. These are full of useful items that’ll help you maintain not only the quality of your razor but the quality of your shave as well.