Tips for a really close shave

Sometimes customers ask Bolin Webb "what are some tips for a really close shave?".  This is more straightforward to answer than implement, as anyone wanting to shave needs ready access to shaving tools in good condition, and of course water for a wet shave.

Firstly, if you want a close shave, stick to wet-shaving.  Although convenient, electrical shavers will not provide as smooth a finish in comparison to a hand-held razor, lubricated by water with cream, oil or gel.   Sticking to a wet shave, we can highlight five tips for your "really close shave":

1. Soften your beard beforehand.  This is an essential part of a close and comfortable shaving routine.  This might be achieved by simply rinsing your face in warm water or first enjoying a full morning shower.

2. Choose a shaving cream, gel or oil that you feel is most comfortable and practical for you.  There is no one formulation perfect for all men.  More detail about the different skincare solutions can be read on our blog Choosing between shaving foam, cream or gel

3. Choose a handle that provides a firm and comfortable grip.  Bolin Webb of course recommends our own shaving razors.  There are shape and weight differences, appealing to a range of preferences.

4. We strongly believe that a Gillette blade provides the sharpest and most robust cutting edge.  These need to be in good condition, and that is measured by its effectiveness when you shave - and not the number of shaves of number of weeks between replacing one shaving cartridge for another.

5. Direction and travel of the blade over your face will influence how closely the blade can glide over your skin, as the contours of your face and the different angles at which stubble grows will mean the blade coming in one direction can have a different effect compared with another direction - for example an upwards motion versus a downwards motion.  Try different approaches carefully.  Sometimes applying both gives that really close shave,

To conclude, each man has a unique skin and beard.  Hair grows in different thicknesses and at different speeds.  Skin sensitivity will vary from one man to the next.  So each one of us needs to find the product and routine that suits us best, individually.  This takes some testing, so be patient but also curious occasionally to try new solutions