Wet shaving can feel like a spa treatment for your face—or like wrestling with barbed wire. The difference? Knowing what you’re doing. Whether you're a rookie or have been wielding a blade for years, a few classic mistakes can leave your skin burning, your neck looking like a war zone, and your morning routine ruined.
Want to know how to wet shave the right way? Follow these basics and make your mornings (or evenings) just that little better.
#1: Prep like a pro
Some guys think a quick splash of water is enough, but if you want to avoid irritation, you need to invest a few extra minutes.
Wash your face gently with warm water (not hot!) and a proper face cleanser. Skip body soap—it strips away natural oils, making wet shaving harder on your skin. Acne? Avoid scrubbing too hard; it’ll only make things worse. And don’t forget your neck. A well-prepped face helps your wet shave razor glide smoothly, so you can start the day with a fresh, clean shave.
#2: The right bottle
That bargain-bin can of shaving foam might seem like a great idea, but it could be the worst choice you make. The propellants dry out your skin, and it's packed with unnecessary ingredients that have nothing to do with shaving. Bad news, especially if you’re into wet shaving with sensitive skin. Your face deserves better.
And that’s before we even talk about the stabilizers and preservatives inside. Do yourself a favor—choose a quality shaving gel. Deal hunter or not, those few extra cents are worth it.
#3: Follow the growth
Hair doesn’t just sprout randomly; it grows in a direction.
To find out which way yours grows, let it grow out for a day and run your fingers over it. Feels smooth? That’s the growth direction. Feels rough? That’s against it.
Why does this matter? You want the closest shave—without irritation or nicks. Always start by shaving with the grain. Want a closer shave? Reapply lather and go across the grain. Still not smooth enough? Then (and only then) go against it. But take it easy—not all skin can handle that.
#4: Light touch, sharp blade
Biggest rookie mistake? Pressing too hard. Maybe it’s a guy thing—thinking that more pressure equals a better shave. Nope.
Shaving works best on a flat surface. Press too hard, and you create a “valley” in your skin, leading to irritation and an uneven shave. Some modern razors try to compensate with fins, pivoting heads, and multiple blades to flatten the skin—but the best trick? Use a light touch.
Test it yourself. Tilt your head and let the razor rest on your cheek. Feel that? That’s all the pressure you need.
#5: The right angle
Wrong angle = razor burn and nicks. Simple.
Switching from a disposable razor to a safety razor? Chances are you’re holding it too steep. Let the top of the razor rest on your skin, then lower the handle until the blade just touches. Some pros even say shaving in a silent bathroom helps—listen to the sound of the hairs being cut.
Using a disposable? You’re stuck with whatever angle the manufacturer decided works for “most people.” But you’re not most people. Some razors shave like a dream, others like a nightmare. Find what works for your face.
#6: No lather? No blade.
Even the best shavers make this mistake—going over a dry spot they missed. And boom—there’s that nick.
We all miss a stubble patch now and then—around the mouth, under the jaw. The instinct? Go over it again. Don't. No lather? No blade.
Some guys can get away with a final light pass using just water. But remember—even water is a lubricant. If you’re going for a wet shave with sensitive skin, always apply something before you go in with a razor.
#7: Don’t overdo it
Speaking of dry skin—going over the same spot too many times is a habit most guys pick up. It’s also a guaranteed way to irritate your face.
New to wet shaving? Train yourself to use efficient strokes—deliberate, slightly overlapping. Remember: you’re trimming hair, not erasing it.
Missed a spot? Reapply lather first, then go back for another pass. Less irritation, more comfort.
Wet Shaved and Winning
Wet shaving is an art—but not rocket science. With these tips, you’ll avoid irritation, nicks, and that tight, regret-filled post-shave feeling. If you have sensitive skin, these mistakes are even more crucial to avoid.
Want to know how to wet shave like a pro? Stick to these basics, and your skin will thank you every morning.