Shaving is like brushing your teeth. It's generally a hassle, but it needs to be done, and the results are always satisfying. That is, unless you have a fight with your shaver every day. Here are some facts and tips to ensure that your daily shave goes smoothly.Your legs must be wet for at least two to three minutes before applying your cleanser or scrub. That way the hair is more soft and pliable, easier to cut.Don't use soap, it just dries out your legs and makes for a poor shave.Make sure you have the right tool. There are various styles of shavers, but not all legs or hair growth are the same. Triple blades work well, but no matter the blade type you use, change it frequently - but be careful with sharp edges - if not done carefully, shaving can irritate the skin, the hair follicle, and the oil gland, which causes a rash. Ingrown hairs also pose a chance of infection. See a dermatologist for the right solution.Choose a shaving cream or gel that contains elloments for a hydrating effect, and one that is fragrance free to avoid irritation to your skin. So steer away from products that contain irritants including alcohol, menthol and peppermint. Find yourself out of shaving cream? Hair conditioner or body cleanser works just fine.
Apply even pressure and shave against the growth of hair. Follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin moist and supple. Avoid creams with AHAs because the glycolic acid can irritate freshly-shaven skin.
Are there shaving alternatives? Yes, there are. While temporary hair removal can be done by shaving, waxing or by epilation (electrolysis and thermolysis) another method is removing hair with a laser.

Preparation
Once you have the tools at your disposal you are ready to begin. You should have a sink or bowl ready filled with piping hot (not scalding) clean water to maximize the

effectiveness of the shave. Ideally you should shower or bath beforehand to open the pores fully on the face. Allow your Shaving Brush to soak in the water whilst you apply

more hot water to the face. It is imperative when wetshaving to keep the face as wet and warm as possible at all times.
The Lather
Remove the Shaving Brush from the water and turn it upside down until the excess water has drained out.. Have your Shaving Cream at the ready and dip the Shaving Brush

into the tub making sure the tips of the hair are covered. Swirl the brush slowly in a circular motion until a small but visible lather appears. It is important that there is not too

much or too little cream on the brush. The more you shave the easier it will become to gauge the amount needed.
Begin to work the brush up and down on your face almost as if you were painting it. Your face and neck should be well covered. Repeat this process for a minute or so until you've got a thick, opaque layer of rich lather covering the shaving area. Set the Shaving Brush aside.
The Shave
Begin by taking your razor and shaving down the face and neck in a North to South direction. It is important to try and shave in the direction that your hairs grow to minimize skin irritation or ingrowing hairs. The first few strokes should rid the face of the toughest hairs before repeating the process again but shaving in the opposite direction, ie South to North. To achieve the closest shave possible you should rinse the face in clean hot water, work up another lather and shave again in both directions. A lot of men may find their skin far too sensitive to shave against the direction of the hair growth and they are often left with redness and razor burn.
Sooth and Moisturize
After you have finished shaving rinse the face in very cold water which will close the pores. Your Razor and Shaving Brush should be both thoroughly rinsed in warm clean water. It is critical that the Shaving Brush be shook afterwards to remove any excess water and that it is hung upside down from an appropriate stand. It should be stored in a well vented area. If your Brush is looked after in this way it should last for 15 years or more. Pat your face and neck with a small hand towel so the skin has been dried

completely. You should then gently rub a good quality non alcohol based moisturizer, balm or aftershave over the area that has been shaved. Alcohol based products should be avoided at all costs in the shaving process as they have the tendancy to dehydrate and damage the skin long term.

1: Ideally, shave in the shower or bath as the steamy environment will help to soften the bristles, making shaving easier. On average it takes 3.5 minutes for stubble to 'wet out' properly making them easier to shave. If you prefer the old fashioned water in a bowl method, ensure you wash your face first with hot water to ensure those bristles are soft.
2: Spend time preparing your skin. Use a deep cleansing non-soapy face wash (K1ST or ASC Face Wash) and alternate twice a week with a scrub (KXF or ASC Face Scrub). Spend a little time massaging your chosen shaving preparation into your face as this again will help to soften and lift the bristles. Water that is 48F or hotter actualy kills spot causing bacteria.
3: Ensure you have a clean sharp blade and shave using short strokes. It’s key to shave in the direction of your hairs' growth – generally speaking this is down on the cheeks and chin and upwards on the neck. If you are at all unsure, run your finger across your stubble to see which direction the hair is growing. Shaving against the direction of hair growth is the primary cause of razor burn, redness and rashes.
4: Rinse the blade regularly as you shave and don’t press to hard against the skin.
5: If using a shaving gel or foam, rinse your face thoroughly with cool water and pat dry (don't rub). If using a King of Shaves shaving oil, simply pat your face dry.
6: Apply a post shave product (Recovery Gel or  Moisturiser) to leave your skin feeling smooth, supple and soft - not tight and dry!
7: You have completed the perfect shave!