Nothing beats the feeling of a clean shave. Not only do many men prefer the look, but your romantic partner will probably enjoy kissing you a lot more without any scruff.

You may think you’re good to go as long as you have a new razor and an adequate amount of moisture to let the blade glide smoothly on your skin. 

For the best experience possible, some may wonder if they should shave before or after taking a shower. The answer may surprise you.

The Importance of Shaving

Credit: Ulmer Dermatology

There are numerous benefits to shaving outside of looking more professional. For starters, shaving doesn’t just get rid of hair. It also removes dead skin cells and other debris from the surface.

Shaving can provide you with better hygiene overall. Bacteria can build up in unkempt beards. It’s all right to have facial hair if you want it, but just make sure to maintain it.

Lastly, a freshly shaven face can make you look years younger. It brings out your youth, which can be a major advantage if you’re still in the dating scene. 

Should You Shave Before Your Shower?

Shaving before a shower is a preferred method for some. After all, you can shave while the shower water heats up. But is it the best way?

Pros and Cons of Shaving Before Your Shower

The biggest benefit of shaving prior to a shower is that you can save time. If you shave and are still running late, you can skip the shower entirely. Just make sure to wear plenty of deodorant and cologne.

The main problem with this is that your skin is still dry. You want to make sure you wet it appropriately and then apply a liberal amount of shaving cream. That way you provide plenty of cushioning between the blade and your skin.

Should You Shave After Your Shower?

Others leave the shaving for last. Some may want to consider switching the shaving to the end of the routine.

Pros and Cons of Shaving After Your Shower

First and foremost, your skin and hair are wet after a shower. This provides much better lubrication for your blade afterward.

On top of that, the steam from a hot shower opens up your pores. This makes it easier to remove the toughest of hairs. 

However, you want to make sure you shave immediately afterward to take advantage of this. Over time, your pores close once again, and you lose your window of opportunity.

The main downside is that you have to watch out for stray strands landing on your body. You just showered, and you don’t want to have to step in the tub again.

Which Shaving Method is Better?

Credit: Men's Hairstyles Today

Honestly, neither one is better than the other. It comes down to personal preference, and as long as you take the necessary precautions, either way, you’ll be fine.

You may even want to think about shaving while you’re in the shower. That way your skin is already wet and prime when the razor comes out. 

If you plan on going down this route, then you should invest in a shower mirror. You typically hang this from the faucet so that you can make sure you don’t accidentally knick yourself.

Tips for a Great Shaving Experience

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To ensure your shaving goes smoothly, you should move the blade in the direction your skin goes. Go with the grain so that your chances of cutting yourself are reduced.

When you’re done shaving, you should keep your razor in a dry area to prevent bacteria from accumulating. To minimize irritation further, you should throw the razor away after five to seven uses. 

All of this advice applies to all of your bodily hair. You can stay smooth without sacrificing your comfort.

References:

Jefferson, Andy. “See The Effect Of Shaving On Your Health And Wellness.” 11 Dec. 2017, Thrive Global. https://thriveglobal.com/stories/see-the-effect-of-shaving-to-your-health-and-wellness/

“Is It Better to Shave Before or After Showering?” Smooth as Hell. https://www.smoothashell.com/shave-before-after-shower/