Should i shave against

A good way to do this is with a hot shower, or by applying a hot towel. This means less friction and less chance of razor burn. This will help prevent nicks and cuts and soften hair for a more comfortable and close shave. Remember to reapply the shave gel as you go along and rinse your blade every few strokes. This will clear out clogged hair and increase the performance of your razor.

When it comes to picking a razor, opt for the best type for your skin. And it can help you save money on your razor blades. But whatever razor you choose, keep the blades sharp and clean. When shaving against the grain, the first step is to always exercise caution. Shaving against the grain tends to pull the hair follicle up and away from the skin, which runs an increased chance of razor burn or skin irritation being left behind.

We recommend shaving against the grain only in the areas of your face where there is stubble left over from your few passes with the grain. Of course, many men have coarse, thick beards that seem to only get that close shave against the grain. If this isn't your first rodeo, then you know your face and what it can handle.

If you are a newbie, take your time and experiment. Across the grain refers to using horizontal strokes instead of vertical ones on your face. This is a great way to get a closer shave if shaving with the grain isn't cutting it, while still naturally guarding you from irritation or cuts, unlike shaving against the grain. Not only that, this method also makes shaving in difficult, sensitive areas much more convenient, for example under your nose, neck and the ever tricky jawline.

We've had some great feedback from many customers who use across the grain, specifically on their neck to get that closer shave without the nicks or irritation. We recommend two pass shaving for best results when shaving with the Single Edge. The first pass being with the grain and the second being with or across, depending on your beard. Your razor should also be sharp — ideally a fresh blade. A worn blade is likely to be much less efficient and can do the unfortunate pulling of the hair which leads to major discomfort.

Then you want to wash your face with warm water. Then apply a pre-shave oil or shaving lotion to soften the hair. Aftershave lotions help get moisture back into the skin, which stops the skin from getting flaky or uncomfortably tight.

Many lotions also have natural oils to help ease any inflammation. So, how do you make sure you go with the grain? To avoid accidentally going against the changing directions of growth always use short, gentle strokes, letting the razor glide over your skin without applying too much pressure. Trust me, you might not necessarily get a closer shave but you most certainly will get a more comfortable one. Attaches to the wall and folds away too. Follow MH on Twitter and Facebook.