/r/wicked_edge has lots of great advice. I'll boil a lot of it down for you though..

1. Stop using the 17-bladed nuclear-powered vibrating cartridge monsters with extra lubricating strip and kung-fu grip. Similarly, no electric shavers. They're really electric hair-ripper-outers. Not kidding. Kick it old school, like your grandfather. Look at a double-edge safety razor, or if you're really looking to go all-in, consider a straight razor.
   
   
2. Think about your shaving cream. Does it come out of a can using aerosol? Maybe rethink that too then. Plenty of options out there that don't involve chemical-laden aerosol-propelled goo. You can even really turn the clock back with a cup/bowl/mug and brush setup to whip up a nice lather. I'm a fan of Taylor of Old Bond Street. But, I've also used DR Harris products, and they're quite nice as well. One of the side benefits of my former job was all the trips to London, so I could just stop into the ToBS shop on Jermyn Street. Sadly, those days are past, so I rely on the kindness of co-workers that still go over. :) It's easy enough to get their products in the US, it just costs a bit more.
   
   
3. If you go the DE route, get a sample pack of different blades. Different blades work differently on different guys. For me, Derby blades are death. For others, they're amazing. For me, I work well with Astra, or can manage Feathers if I'm really careful (they're super sharp). My best blade though, has been a Personna medical prep blade.
   
   
4. Shave in passes. Do a with-the-grain pass, followed by an across-the-grain pass. If you're really not there yet, you can add an against-the-grain pass, but that's a pretty advanced move. Remember - you're doing multiple passes. You don't need to remove every bit of hair the first pass. You don't press the razor into your face (as you're probably used to!). This razor has heft, and a blade that's really sharp. You're accustomed to a lightweight razor that has blades that are as dull as a hunk of cardboard compared to your garden variety DE blade.
   
   
5. Use a quality aftershave. Try to avoid ones that contain alcohol, as it dries out the skin. I love the Nivea sensitive skin stuff. I can get it for way cheaper than that link shows at Walgreens, Target or Wegmans though.
   
   Many folks will try to sell you on the economics here, and how much money you'll save by shaving this way. While possible, it's not necessarily so. One can go bonkers and spend hundreds on the best gear if they wish. BUT, you don't have to.
   
   For me, I use a $30 brush from whippeddog.com with a $5 mug from Target. My cream (ToBS Jermyn St) runs about $15 a tub, which lasts me probably 6-9 months. My daily shaver is a $30 Edwin Jagger, and my blades run about $30 for a 100-pack. I get 2-3 shaves from each blade.
   
   If you run the numbers, you'll likely come out ahead by going to DE, get better shaves, and have better skin as well. It sure was cheaper for me. I used to go through a cartridge a week. So, that's 4 carts a month. I was spending $30-ish every other month on 8-packs of cartridges, or about $3.75 per week. Nowadays, that's 2 blades a week, at ~$0.30/blade, that's $0.60/week in blades. That's a massive savings alone.
   
   You can do the ROI analysis for yourself. Take into account what you'd spend on shaving supplies, and calculate at which points the cost lines cross (ie break-even).

As someone explained, ingrown hairs happen when the hair doesn't actually break the surface of the skin, the most common cause for them is shaving with poor gear or incorrectly. Basically you shave and instead of cutting the hair, the razor pulls it slightly out from the hair follicle before actually cutting it. So when the hair grows back, if it's even slightly off from it's previous position, there's a good chance it won't break through the skin and end up as an ingrown hair.

Some people also have naturally very curly hair which then ends up causing much more ingrown hairs than most others. If they just happen even without shaving then the issue is a bit more difficult to manage and there's actually very little you can do about it. However if they happen after shaving, then solution do exist.

I'm going to detail some things you can do about your shaving routine that should help with ingrown hairs.

First of all, get yourself a double edge razor. If you want something cheap you can get one for about 3$ from Amazon, for something a bit better and more expensive the Edwin jagger DE89 is an excellent razor. There are literally hundreds of other options out there, you can often find DE razors from antique shops, flea markets or just your parents/grandparents place. And vintage razors are often extremely good if they are in decent shape.

Next you'll need some blades, I recommend buying a sampler pack again this one is about 11$. The reason you want a sample pack is because certain blades work better for certain people, so you can try them out and find the blade that fits you.

Now why on earth would you spend the whopping 15$ on technology from 70's when you have the new gilette 20 blade razor that is supersharp technology masterpiece? Mostly because it's not supersharp, well..It kinda is but it won't stay that way. The problem is that blades go dull, and when blades go dull they don't cut well, when they don't cut well they tug the hair and you end up with ingrown hairs. The easy solution is to change the cartridge often, but the cartridges are really goddamn expensive so you don't want to do that. DE blades? You can get a years supply for 20-30$, change it every 1-3 shaves and you can ensure the blade stays sharp and cuts well.

Someone also suggested exfoliating the skin, but you can kill two birds with one stone. You can get yourself a shaving brussh, something simple like the Omega 10077 it's a good, cheap starter brush it's a bit on the harder side so you can easily use it to exfoliate your skin prior to shaving. With that you can get a tube of Proraso shaving cream which is leaps and bounds better than the stuff you get from a supermarket in a can. Then to top it off get yourself some nice aftershave to calm your skin after shaving.

Now you'll also need to change your entire routine a bit. Slap a blade on your new razor, fill your sink up with some hot water and let your brush soak in the water. While your brush soaks rinse the areas you want to shave with plenty of hot water, this helps to open up the pores and soften your hair prior to shaving. If you want you can use some pre-shave to try and keep the irritation to your skin to minimum. Now you'll need to prep some lather, you can use a bowl, your hand or just do it right where you want to shave Here's a good guide on what you can do. The basic idea is to make sure your brush isn't exactly dripping wet but still wet, get about an almond size drop of the shave cream, then just mix up the cream like you'd be mixing eggs, add drops of water if needed. Once you have some lather, apply it in the places you want. You should use rather brisk circular motions, these help to prop your hair up and makes them easier to shave. Applying cream with hands usually has the bad effect of pushing your hair flat on your skin which makes shaving harder.

Now you have some lather so you'll need to shave. There are two main things to keep in mind with a DE: Blade angle and pressure.

Basically there is an ideal blade angle and finding one will take some time. However there is an entire wiki page dedicated to this. The second one is pressure, with a cartridge razor you ten dto press it against your skin, because the blades are dull and you try to shave as well as possible. With a DE, you should not put any pressure on your skin. The blade is sharp enough to cleanly cut the hair with zero pressure. Getting a hang of it is gonna take a week or so, but once you do you will consistently get better shaves. And be sure to rinse your blade often with the water you have in your sink, you don't want too much cream clogging the blade up.

The basic three pass DE shave includes one pass with the grain of the hair, another across the grain and the final pass is done very carefully against the grain and only if needed or you absolutely want to do it. Shaving against the grain gives you the best shave, but also irritates your skin more and is much more likely to end up with reddish skin or small cuts. So you fist shave everything with the grain, then rinse, apply lather, shave across the grain, rinse, and shave against the grain if needed.

Finally rinse with cool water, dry yourself up and apply aftershave. For other post-shave products you can get yourself an Alum bloc. It's a natural astringent that closes up most small razor nicks. After your final pass and after rinsing your face, grab the block and just massage it on the areas where you shaved, then rinse your face again. Another excellent product is witch hazel. It's again an all natural skin care product, it helps to cool, refresh and revitalize your skin. You can also use it daily even if you don't shave. Personally I apply witch hazel after I rinse off the alum. Then wait a few minutes and apply after shave.

Doing all that should help to decrease skin irritation and reduce ingrown hairs. And those products are just a dip in he ocean, there are hundreds of soaps, aftershaves, creams and all manner of other things you can get cheap and easy. Check out /r/wicked_edge for more.

When you shave against the grain the razor tugs at the hair in addition to slicing through it, pulling it a bit farther out of the follicle. This makes it much easier to get ingrown hairs and irritation on the skin.

Edit to elaborate on everyone else's experiences by adding my own: Using Mach 3s and all that newer stuff I always broke out on my neck. Switching to a safety razor(a big part of this is also finding the right blade brand for you skin, Feather was way too sharp for me and caused razor burn, I ended up going with Derby), using a badger hair brush and shaving soap and making my own lather, shaving while showering and your hair is moist and skin is warm from the steam, and rinsing with ice cold water after the shave are what I found work the best. Hard to nail down exactly what helped the most cause I switched to doing all that at the same time.

Safety Razor

Blades

Soap

Fogless Shower Mirror

Mug to make lather in

Brush

After Shave

Cold Water ;P (I honestly think rinsing with cold water for at least 15 seconds before putting on after shave is the most important part in avoiding irritation and ingrown hairs.)

Tend Skin Liquid!

Check out the reviews on amazon (lots of dudes use on their face after shave to take care of redness, bumps, irritation and ingrown hairs).

I am a girl with serious ingrown hair issues (for years, shaving, waxing, laser.. everything), I found this at target and I swear my legs are starting to look like "normal" legs now, I apply with a cotton pad on dry skin after shower, I also apply a regular moisturizer after to fight the dryness of the product)

Btw, this smells very strong and do a patch test first! (Like, this is no joke stuff) Also, check out their website in case you are using any BHA/AHA or pretty much any acidic stuff to see how to be careful about that.

Thank you! I love the primer but i want to experiemt with new things. The makeup artists i follow reccomend the nivea after shave balm as a primer. i realllly want to try it. The mac has lasted me ages! I still have quite a bit left after using it for months

Use Tend Skin Care Solution and then apply balmex. It will be cleared up pretty quickly. Do the 2 step process at night before you go to bed and put on underwear - it will be almost resolved overnight.

In the future, get your bum waxed.

Tend Skin The Skin Care Solution For Unsightly Razor Bumps, Ingrown Hair And Razor Burns, 8 Fl. Oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ECQ7G4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_t1VvDbKB7D258

Here's what I would suggest:

Razor: either this one if you want to stay frugal or this one if you want to splurge a bit. I'd stay away from the QShave. It's a clone of a razor with a lot of design issues. One being that the head is so large it's hard to get under the nose, etc.; another issue is that it is extremely aggressive even at its lowest setting.

Brush: This synthetic brush. I think it's much better to start with a synthetic than a boar brush. Boar brushes are less comfortable on your face and actually make it more difficult to make lather until they break in. No reason to mess with those variables when you're just trying to get the hang of it. As for this specific synthetic brush, I have one and it is an amazing value for the money. It is one of about a dozen brushes I own, some of which were $200+, and this $12 brush holds its own with them.

Shaving soap: Lots of options here. Barrister & Mann's Latha line performs extremely well and is a great value. Several scents to choose from. Barrister &
Mann's Glissant line is a bit more expensive but has even better performance and more complex scents. Seville is a particularly good starting point with B&M, just an extremely clean, classic, masculine scent. Pre de Provence and Pre de Provence No. 63 are classic french soaps that smell great and perform very well.

Aftershave: Even more options here. You could go with Thayer's witch hazel with aloe, or if you want a traditional high alcohol aftershave, Fine Accoutrements is excellent. There are several scents, all based on popular and/or classic colognes. Or you could splurge and get the world's greatest aftershave product, L'Occitane Cade After Shave Balm.

Blades: Amazon has some good deals on blades in bulk but just sucks for sampler packs, and you want to start with a sampler pack because reasons. So head on over to TryABlade and order two of the "Top 10 Sampler." You can't use your Amazon credit there, but it's going to come to less than $10 including shipping.

So, if you go with the cheapest option in each category, you come out to fifty dollars or so if I'm adding right, which leaves you room to pick out one or more of those splurge options I mentioned.

Cu un aparat clasic. Orice prostie foloseam de la Gilette, indiferent de pret sau de aftershave imi lasa fata iritata.

Am trecut pe lucrurile clasice cu aparatul asta, lame Astra, sapun de barbierit si piatra de alaun. Nu mai am nici o problema dupa barbierit si e si de cel putin 10 ori mai ieftin.

Yo, all my nestle crunch brothers buy Tend Skin if you have razor bumps. I use to have constant razor bumps & scars and now my neck is completely clear.


Tend Skin Care Solution Refillable Roll On, 2.5 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002NVBR24/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_OZqXCbJ6WPXCN

I think you make some fair points regarding time.

However, for less than the cost of a decent electric or one of those silly quad blade handles and a few replacements you can have a shaving setup that will last you, literally, your entire life.

Is it for everyone? No. Is it dangerous? Hell no. Hard to use? Only if you don't know how to shave. Can it be expensive? Yes, I have a $100 brush because it feels like angel wings on my face. But my $100 brush does the same thing a $5 brush does. But let's go down the price list of my initial setup.

Merkur Long Handle Safety Razor $18.99

[Proraso Shaving soap] (https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Soap-Refreshing-Toning/dp/B00837YY18/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1473962086&sr=1-5&keywords=shaving+soap) $10

[Shaving Brush] (https://www.amazon.com/Bassion-Crafted-Shaving-Professional-Engineered/dp/B016I77CJA/ref=sr_1_10_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1473962140&sr=1-10&keywords=shaving+brush) $8.99

[Proraso Aftershave Cream for Sensitive Skin] (https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-After-Shave-Balm-Sensitive/dp/B008654MNM/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1473962214&sr=1-1&keywords=proraso+aftershave+cream) $16.00

[100 Feather Razor Blades] (https://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-HI-STAINLESS-DOUBLE-BLADES-REMOVE/dp/B00BDM0XZG/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1473962281&sr=1-3&keywords=feather+razor+blades) $24.00

That's enough blades to last you years(and those are very nice, very sharp blades, you can get cheaper ones), the aftershave goes a long way, so does the soap. The handle will outlive me, and the brush will be good for a long, long time.

Try [this] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ECQ7G4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1) worked pretty well for me :)

Many people like Nivea's Sensitive Post Shave Balm. Here is a four pack on Amazon, but you can also pick up ind individual bottles at just about any drug store for around $5.

Fun fact, if you're prone to getting scars there is such a thing as "acne scars."

If you pop your zits there is a high likelihood that you'll develop pox marks on your face and if your acne is really bad, your face will start looking like a pineapple over time.

So what I would say is this:

Before you shave

• Hot shower - before you get out, crank the hot water as to the hottest setting you can tolerate and thoroughly scrub your face with a wash cloth then hot water again on your face until you're ready to get out. The hot water opens your pores up and the scrubbing removes any extra dead skin and oil that's on your face.
  
  
• As soon as you get out of the shower, run hot water in the sink, as hot as possible and leave it running - the reason is that dipping your razor into a pool of dead skin and bacteria is adding debris and germs to your pores.
  
  
• Lather up with some quality shave cream, barbasol is my personal choice.
  
  
• When you shave, take your time, go from the very top of your beard line all the way down to your chin, and clean the razor after each pass by blowing the hair out of it with each pass then rinse it off. - don't do more than 2 passes on the same spot but if you have thick facial hair, then do your passes in smaller strokes.
  
  
• When you have the bulk of the hair off, pull your skin tight on your chin (look up at the ceiling, take your free hand and grab your throat just under your Adams apple and pull down to make it taut) and do short passes on any hairs you missed. Make sure you get the back of your jaw. The best way I've found is take 4 fingers and pull up towards your ears which will pull the stragglers onto your cheek bone and give you a tight flat surface to shave them on.
  
  
• Now that you shaved you should use aftershave
  
  You need to figure out if you have oily skin or of you have dry skin.
  
  > If you have oily skin (most likely because teen hormones) I recommend using "Proraso" aftershave. It's a classic aftershave that smells kind of like menthol but it's a manly smell IMO and you'll have a great "eau de homme" kind of scent for the morning.
  
  Amazon shopping link
  
  > If you have have dry skin, then you should avoid alcohol based aftershave and go with a balm instead. My choice would be "Baxter of California." It's got tea tree oil and glycerin which will help with dry skin.
  
  Amazon link
  
  
• So when you're done shaving, rinse your face with hot water first to get the excess shaving cream off, then rinse it with cold water - The hot water will keep your pores open to rinse any shaving debris off and out, then the cold water make them slam shut.
  
  
• Finally apply your aftershave, not a lot of it by the way, just get it sprinkled on your finger tips by your 1st and 2nd pads. Do not rub it in. Just Pat your face and neck with it all over.
  
  
• Wait a few moments, maybe check yourself out in the mirror and fire off a couple finger guns while you tell yourself that you're going to knock the day's dick into the dirt because that's what I do.
  
  
• Use a clean towel to pat yourself dry
  
  If you do all of that exactly as I outlined it should drastically reduce the amount of acne you get. That routine is directly from my doctor when I was younger and it worked wonders.
  
  If you have questions, feel free to ask and report back in a week and update us on how it worked out.

Your face is a canvas and the make-up is like paint. Think about painting in layers if that helps.

That being said, here's my recommendation. You skin is your canvas so you gotta take care of it. Pay attention to your body/skin, everyone is different so use what is working for you. Exfoliate regularly, exfoliating helps clear up pores and scrub away dead skin. I do it daily, again do as much as your own skin needs to. My pores tend to clog easily so I try my best to keep it clean. I use something like this, just a slightly rougher bath sponge, squeeze a little face wash on it and lightly scrub - again this is what I do, your mileage may vary.

Regardless of how oily your skin is, moisturize it. If you have naturally oilier skin like me, use a lighter moisturizer (it feels lighter on your skin not as thick or creamy). conversely, use a heavier moisturizer if you tend to have dry skin. It doesn't necessarily have to be a "face moisturizer" product, lotions work also i've noticed. The point of all this is you want a clean and hydrated skin, it looks younger and healthier. I use, Aveeno's Men's After Shave Lotion. It get's two birds with one stone for me, aftershave plus helps keep my skin hydrated and is on the lighter side (won't feel greasy when it dries.)

The next layer in the painting would be concealer and foundation. Concealers are more pigmented "cover up" work. Using me again, i have slight rosatia/pinkness, concealers help neutralize out the redness to a more even skin tone. Foundation is a less pigmented but does the same thing essentially. Go to a Walgreen's or any drugstore and just look at the color samples. You'll want to color match to your neck so that your general face color blends in with your neck. Taking care of you skin takes time to get but when you get there you shouldn't need much concealer or foundation to even out your face. I like BB Cream No. 23, Natural Biege, matches my color fairly well.

You can pick either of those up or an equivalent product at any drugstore. People won't give you any grief, it's not too common but some males do buy coverup/concealers for acne breakouts so it shouldn't cause too much fuss to buy in person.

As far as applying blush, eyeshadow, liner brows ... the works, it's hard to type out and is best if shown to you. Beating a dead horse, watch the you tube videos and practice putting them on. You WILL get better. I did a quick look through amazon, this Shany Set seems like an okay kit. It has a various color pots to play/practice with. (color pot, the little containers that the actual make up sits in.) Your small round pots are your eyeshadows and the large round ones are your blushes. It looks like it comes with the applicators too, the fancy q-tip looking things are for eyeshadows and the bristle brush for blush. It also has the standard black and brown pencil eye liner, a pencil lip liner, lipstick and some nailpolish.

When it's all said and done, you've read all that you can or watched all the videos you've cared to watch. My best advice I can give you is take care of your skin and practice. Keep putting it on, get a feel for it and learn how certain things get applied. Eyeliner for example, you need to get used to the fact that there's something that close to your eye when you're trying to put it on. With time and practice it gets easier, your hand gets steadier and your eyes don't flinch as much.

Not my best nor my worst, but here's where i'm at on a typical day. http://i.imgur.com/C1vPsxg.jpg

Lastly, baby wipes or makeup remover wipes is good for taking it all off and these on a cotton swab is good to remove eyeliner without any trace.

Edit: words and links

I actually have a bunch from Thailand, they're just solid blocks you may be able to find them at your local health food store! Or something like this on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FA35K02/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?qid=1458167931&sr=8-3&keywords=alum+stone&pi=SX200_QL40

First, please read this MSDS for Clubman Talcum Powder, which is required to be provided to people who are expected to be continually exposed to the product. Take notice of the statement Long-term excessive exposures may cause talcosis, a pulmonary fibrosis which may lead to severe and permanent damage to the lung - possibly resulting in disability or death. In my profession, I see people who are permanently disabled and/or need lung transplants because of exposure to things like silica dust.

I am familiar with the scent of Clubman and agree that it's fabulous, but I wouldn't smell it every day because I also like to inhale and exhale. Once a week at the barber is fine, crop dusting your clothes with it every day is not.

Get yourself some Pinaud Clubman Aftershave instead. It's only $6, will be much more wearable and noticeable, and your lungs will thank you.

If you want an actual cologne, try:

Canoe for Men

Helmut Lang Eau de Cologne

God I hope someone appreciates what I'm about to write.. which is from a combination of sources and personal knowledge. Honestly, shaving your significant other can be a really interesting and personal experience. I applaud you for reaching out to the community, even if it was using a throwaway account. This is a somewhat time consuming and laborious process, but it can be enjoyable if properly planned out in advance and approached as a pampering activity.

Ideally you'll want: a bathtub, scissors, 2 soft towels (small), a bowl of warm water, a loofah, a small dish with baking powder, new tweezers, a new female razor with 3-5 blades and 2 lotion strips on the top and bottom, Bikini Zone gel, Bikini Zone aftershave, baby powder, and a CD of Kenny G (kidding. but some music and a candle can't hurt). In total, you'll probably spend $20 - $30 as a first time cost (hey, it's your wife who you love doing something for you because you love it. come on).

Use a pair of scissors to trim the hair to a more manageable level, preferably down to 1/4 inch, by grabbing patches of the hair and simply cutting. Don't go native on me and start yanking at everything, be gentle. You want to do this before the bath, ideally, since afterwards it might be too soft to cut easily.

Have her take a nice warm bath for at least 15 minutes (or shower if need be, but I think bath is preferred to help her relax and enjoy the experience more). While in the bath, have her use a loofah to exfoliate the skin in the area (being careful to not use any abrasive soaps or getting anything inside of her). This removes dead skin letting the razor do it's job better while also aligning the hairs in the same direction to help you when you're shaving her. Ask her to use Dove or something soft and nonirritating (you don't want to stress the skin before you've even brought the razor into the picture).

The other comments recommending oil/nair/veet are on the right track, but if you want the absolute best product on the market for this.. it's called Bikini Zone. Tend Skin is a reasonably close second. They also have an after shave. You will want an aftershave that acts as a moisturizer; again, I recommend this brand. Let me re-emphasize: you will want the gel and the aftershave. These two products directly addresses her concerns about ingrown hairs and rashing.

You want a NEW razor with multiple blades and a soft lubricant strip on both top and bottom (the more blades the better), a bowl with warm water (warm, not hot), and a soft towel on hand.

Have her dry off as she usually does but have her lie down on your bed (facing up) with a towel under her and one on her head. Pamper her with some soft music and a scented candle too, I mean you're going to have your head and hands buried between her legs.. might as well make an evening out of it.

Wet the towel in the water and apply it to the area with hair to help get it wet and to soften it again.

Follow the directions on the packaging for the lotion/gel and apply it first, then briefly have the razor in the water to help it get wet/warm. Why use a razor with many blades? More surface area decreases the pressure per blade, making it hopefully less likely that any soft skin gets cut.

Place one hand on her pubic mound to help even out her hair (like tugging on your cheek when you shave, just a lot more gentle). Shave with long, slow strokes in the direction of the hair. I'd suggest working outside in so as to gain comfort and courage with the process. Avoid strong downward pressure on the skin, let the blades do the work for you. Rinse the blade with every stroke in the bowl of water.

If you have to get "close" to anything delicate for whatever reason, just be sure to use a bit more lotion/oil and don't lather it so that you can't see the skin below.

When getting the hinge where the thigh meets the pubic area, have her open her legs and bend her knees to help. Shave from the knee to the groin in long, smooth strokes, ensuring that her skin is taut.

Gently pat her off with the soft, dry towel you haven't used yet. You'll want to exfoliate her a second time (gets rid of more dead skin, aligns the hairs so as to prevent ingrown hairs, and it'll allow the aftershave to penetrate her skin better meaning it'll feel softer). You can make a paste out of baking soda and warm water to exfoliate using the soft and warm towel to help you (try not to use the loofah again, the fibers might irritate the skin). Don't work it for more than a minute.

Pat the bikini area off with the soft, dry towel again. If you see any stray hairs, now is the best time to get them. Use a new pair of tweezers (preferably a decent pair with an accurate tip) and take them out while the skin is still soft.

Use the aftershave on the area, again following instructions. Avoid anything with perfumes and colors. If you didn't take my advice earlier and skipped the Bikini Zone aftershave, you can lightly use some aloe vera (the real stuff).

Give it a minute or two to sit uninterrupted on the skin. Now, you'll want to give a very light dusting of baby powder on the area (too much will not let the skin breathe, leading to pimples), lightly spread it over the skin to help reduce the chance of any rashes. Don't use Gold Bond or anything, baby powder is the best for this. Avoid letting any powder into the vagina!

... ta da! You're done for today! It might take a little getting used to, convince her to try it for at least a week to give it a shot (this means you'll have to shave again in 3 days or so) If she wears anything lacy, it may take some time getting used to the stubble catching the fibers. Have her stick to cotton for her first day; after that, she should be fine (rashes/pimples generally only happen the first time or any time an old razor is used).

Feel free to mess around as well, she shouldn't be sore and you two will probably be worked up after spending so much time down unda'h. Be sure to compliment her on how it looks/feels etc, and address it the following day and day after that so she knows you appreciate it.

Thanks to this subreddit, I've found Nivea For Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm -- this is the secret to a good shave that doesn't leave stubble or shadow, because it plumps up the skin past the cut hairs. It was hard to find 3 months ago, because women made the discovery that their "makeup primer" had the same ingredients as this aftershave balm but the men's stuff was 1/3 the price. I hope this helps!

I also have dry sensitive skin. I use Nivea Post Shave Balm and it works wonders. I went with Nivea because it was cheap on Amazon and I had a gift card that I had to use up. Your skin will definitely thank you later for using some kind of moisturizing aftershave. Be sure to buy something without alcohol in it because that will dry out your skin even further.

You'll want to use ingrow go basically every day (morning and night) for 1-2 weeks to get rid of the layer of skin trapping the hair. After that, you can stop using it and focus on preventive measures. Exfoliating and lotioning should be enough to release the skin after that since it will only be a thin layer over the hair (if any) instead of the thick layer you were dealing with before.

My legs were really bad so I'd wait a few weeks after then do a treatment again to strip and free the hair that wasn't removed the first time then go back to moisturizing and exfoliating. If you use it too often and dry out your skin too much (which I was guilty of), you're going to run into a lot of the same problems with hair getting trapped.

I've heard good things about tend skin and exfoliating brushes for future prevention but honestly just exfoliating, lotioning, and taking the precautions mentioned above when removing hair makes a huge difference.

I had the same thing happen to me, tbh, after I had a break. Took using tend skin some to do the trick.

http://www.amazon.com/LOccitane-CADE-Shaving-Cream-Men/dp/B006NZ3PYY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1419565943&sr=8-2

http://www.amazon.com/LOccitane-Cade-After-Shave-Balm/dp/B001G60EGW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419565943&sr=8-1

How are you removing the hairs?

I can't recommend PFB Vanish enough for ingrowns. Also PFB+ Chromabright is great if you are experiencing skin darkening due to the ingrowns.

I hate ingrown hair pimples/love picking them/hate when I can SEE the hair there but it's completely sideways and will not let me stab it out with tweezers/toothpick and despite all my efforts it's still there and now I have a scab there.

But /r/hailcorporate, I recommend brushing over your ladybits with growing hair with this brush and/or rubbing this formula over newly shorn skin. I started both of them at the same time so I can't tell which one is more responsible but since I started them my ingrowns have gone down from 3-4 at all times to 0-1. The formula feels kind of just like those oxy pads for acne but whatever, it's working.

I got them terribly in my bikini area and was left with dark spots that would take months to fade. I occasionally get waxed and my girl recommended this stuff:
PFB Vanish + Chromabright , 93 grams https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005GXQ02I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Nt03Ab8R8HMNG

It’s amazing. I no longer get ingrown hairs and my dark spots disappeared within a couple of weeks of using it. The bottle lasts forever.

I tried a bunch of products to help with this, and found that PFB Vanish + Chromabright helped the most! I use it twice daily and have had great results, not only with eliminating ingrowns, but lightening the scars as well!

I too have dry skin, and find that Aveeno Men's Aftershave Lotion works well in the winter. You can probably find it locally, but here's the amazon link: www.amazon.com/Aveeno-Mens-After-Shave-Lotion/dp/B00B6A8K78/ref=sr_1_1

This is what you need to get rid of the bumps. Tend Skin.

Start using it daily and you'll get the hang of when you need it.

OK...here we go :D

I'm going to preface what you're about to read with this caveat: My knowledge of aftershaves is somewhat limited. I've tried and used a handful myself, and know what I would recommend out of those, but I'll also recommend a few others based on what I know of their makers. I'll try to make very clear which is which.

Here's the page of aftershave samplers: http://www.maggardrazors.com/product-category/samples/pre-shave-post-shave-samples/post-shave/

• Either of the available Barrister & Mann scents will be great (all of their scents are impeccable), but I've personally used and highly recommend Lavanille: http://www.maggardrazors.com/product/barrister-mann-artisan-tonique-aftershave-splash-samples/
  
• Chiseled Face's scents can be polarizing, but his soaps are always top performers, and I've no reason to believe that his aftershaves would be any different. Trade Winds is probably the most accessible of them, although I love and recommend Sherlock as well. It's very earthy, so steer clear if you're not into that: http://www.maggardrazors.com/product/chiseled-face-aftershave-samples/
  
• Fine Accoutrements splashes are well regarded and excellently made. Watch out for Snake Bite, though; it's a menthol bomb: http://www.maggardrazors.com/product/fine-aftershave-samples/
  
• Trumper's Skin Food doesn't get enough love around here. It's actually quite good for both pre- and post-shave usage, and very nourishing for your face. I've only ever used the Extract of Limes flavor, but I'm sure the other two are great as well. It's also worth noting that this one isn't an alcohol splash and thus won't have that initial burn often associated with aftershave:
  http://www.maggardrazors.com/product/geo-f-trumper-skin-food-samples/
  
• I like all 5 available flavors of Captain's Choice aftershave. The Bay Rum and Cat o' Nine Tails are both bay rum scents, but Cat o' Nine Tails carries with it a significant burn, so be wary; it's not for the faint of heart: http://www.maggardrazors.com/product/captains-choice-aftershave-samples/
  
• Proraso is a classic, and although their soap can be polarizing, their aftershave is highly regarded by most: http://www.maggardrazors.com/product/individual-aftershave-balm-samples/
  
  Another aftershave that doesn't quite have the allure of all the gourmet brands above, but is actually very good, inexpensive and ubiquitous, is Nivea Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm. It feels great on the skin, has no alcohol burn, and you can find it at pretty much any local pharmacy, grocery store or big box retailer. I always keep a bottle of it on hand: http://www.amazon.com/Nivea-Sensitive-After-Shave-Soothing/dp/B0014E2Q8K
  
  Hope that helps!

Apply after shave after shaving. This stuff works great Beware, if your wife or girlfriend watch youtube makeup stuff, she might start using it as primer.

7. Invest in this: https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4?th=1

Witch hazel is pretty popular. I personally use Tend Skin which I found to work pretty well.

I use this stuff. I buzz my head with no guard each week and apply this after. If I don't I get nasty ingrown hairs on the back of the neck. I use this stuff generally every day for 2 days after the shave and then I just make sure to clean the area well when I shower and it helps prevent acne/razor bumps

Never, ever shave against the grain. I know its tempting, because you get such a close shave that way, but it will always lead to irritation. Shave with the grain, and then shave across the grain at a slight angle. But never against.

Another thing I always do: before shaving, heat up my face by splashing hot water all over it multiple times. This opens up the pores and makes your skin more receptive to the actual shaving process.

Also, there are a bunch of products out there that are designed to reduce and prevent razor irritation. this one is the one I use for instance. You're supposed to apply it immediately after shaving, and it stings like hell for a couple seconds, but it actually does help minimize razor irritation nicely. I would highly recommend using either this or a similar product.

Actually, on this sub i think you're talking about: Nivea for Men Sensitive After Shave Extra Soothing Balm, 3.3 oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0014E2Q8K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fDECxbAXFKB5Z. Nivea creams/soaps aren't talked about as much.

If you're looking for something simple, try a shave oil like Shave Secret. It's cheap, and all you have to do is rub a few drops onto your wet face and you're good to go. I use this when i shave at the gym, for instance.

Hope this helps.

Have you thought about making the switch to a safety razor? As /u/Slayman420 said, head on over to /r/wicked_edge and read a few of the threads and side bar. Best thing I've ever done to move away from cartridge razors and my skin is looking better too.

Make sure your prepping your face well by either shaving after a nice hot shower or washing your face first with your Cetaphil and hot water. If you're not into moving to a safety razor, maybe look into getting better soap using a shaving brush and a good shaving soap. Learn how to lather it well and you'll notice a huge difference with that alone.

Usually when I shave I do three passes: one with the grain, one across the grain (literally going horizontal on the face) and then if I need it, going against the grain. Don't press hard with the razor. Let it glide over your face.

Post shave, I wash my face with cold water then use a post shave balm.

Hope that helps!

The best way to prevent bumping is to shave properly.

1. Take a hot shower to open the pores.
   
2. Use a quality shave lather to lubricate the area.
   
3. Shave WITH the grain lightly to remove hair.
   
4. Rinse and lather again.
   
5. Lightly shave against the grain.
   
6. Rinse and repeat steps 4-5 as needed.
   
7. Get out of shower and dry area by PATTING dry. Do no rub.
   
8. Apply very cold water to area. This will close up the pores.
   
9. PAT dry. Do not rub.
   
10. Apply quality moisturizer to area to keep skin pliable.
    
11. Let moisturizer dry before getting dressed.
    
12. Keep the area clean, but moisturized.
    
    I shave with a straight razor and a safety razor. I'm sure I missed something or got something wrong in these instructions, but this is how I shave my face. I have sensitive skin, so it's likely a very similar process for your sensitive area. If I don't shave using this process I get razor burn and break out the next day. I'm sure that the Reddit collective will correct me, so take my advice with a grain of salt.

I recommend a few things:

First, I would hold off going Against The Grain until your skin recovers and heals up. Constantly irritating such a sensitive area of your skin will cause prolonged discoloration and can lead to more permanent scarring. Time and topical scarring gel will help with the recovery. Also be sure to apply sun block to the area before going out in the sun because the discolored areas will "tan" differently and remain noticeable even after the skin heals up. Also keep in mind that some people can't go ATG without irritation and even on my smoothest ATG shaves I will sometimes experience ingrowns that I don't get when just shaving WTG/XTG.

Second, take it easy with over-exfoliating and too much scrubbing. Your skin can become too dry and your body will never establish an equilibrium constantly trying to over or under compensate for too much or too little oil. Your body has it's own mechanisms of self-regulation.

Third, try cold water shaving. Warm water softens both the hair and the skin and for some people the skin becomes so soft that even the most minor abrasion from a razor blade will irritate. Cold water will help prevent those already sensitive areas from getting too soft since it's really only the hair we want softened for cutting.

Fourth, you can try a product called Tend Skin which has worked for myself and a bunch of other woeful cases. I know there is a recipe for a homemade version circulating somewhere online for anyone not interested in purchasing the product. Tend Skin has alcohol in it and can dry out your skin so if you have dry skin I would recommend using that Nivea balm moisturizer you mentioned after applying the Tend Skin.

Fifth, you can try using a DE razor. From what I've learned using a straight razor is less technically forgiving and having a DE to use during periods where you are letting your face recover may end up being a beneficial alternative.

Overall just keep in mind that razor burn does not occur spontaneously and that something you are doing has caused it, therefore try to make that action less memorable for your face. Be gentle and allow the skin time to recover before re-aggravating the area.

No, you can still get ingrown hairs from waxing. There are some good products that make it better, though.

Tend Skin

Vanish

• Wet Shaving Products Rustic Shaving Soaps are quite nice and come in a respectable range of scents.
  
  
• Taylor of Old Bond Street creams are available on Amazon. These aren't exactly top-shelf creams but they are generally quite good for the price and you should give them a shot if you haven't.
  
  
• Pre de Provence shaving soaps and creams are available on Amazon, and they are all pretty good.
  
  
• L'Occitane Cade shaving cream is available on Amazon and it is allegedly really nice stuff. The aftershave balms are also available.
  
  
• Art of Shaving Creams are often sold on Amazon (for less than at the AoS stores) and they are really quite nice. I'm a big fan of the 'Ocean Kelp' shaving cream. Unfortunately I can't find them on Amazon at the moment.
  

Here are some things that work for me:

1. Norelco Bodygroomer - This is a great trimmer that can manage trimming and shaving. The shaving head is very mild and does not cause a lot of irritation. The trimmer does a great job as well. This is my go to for shaving the hair right above my dick... Where the skin is the most sensitive.
   
   
2. Gillette Venus razor - this is my wife's razor but it does an AMAZING job. It's super mild and I don't get nicks. I mainly use it on my shaft and testicles to get that super close shave. I get some razor burn if I use this razor for the area above my dick.
   
   
3. Shaveworks Cool Fix- This is a great aftershave for "down there." A little goes a long way. I love it.
   
   
4. Body Powder - I really like this stuff. Helps keep everything smooth and soft if you decide to shave down to the skin. It helps reduce irritation from clothing that your pubic hair helps prevent. This brand of body powder does not have talcum powder in it. There is some questionable evidence that links talcum powder with cervical cancer (only occurs in women). The data is not super convincing but I don't want to put my partners at risk so I use this band. BUT, the body powders WITH talc are so much smoother!!
   
   Hopefully that helps a little bit. I have found that pushing through a little bit of razor burn was worth it as my skin got more used to the shaving. But, from day to day, things tend to vary.

Some tips:

• You should try an aluminum block after you shave. here Or a Styptic Pen, but I prefer the block personally.
  
  
• A hot shower right before you shave will help as well along with a fresh razor.
  
  
• When you shave, don't fight it if you feel the hair pulling. Just kind of let the razor do its thing and shave the hair.
  
  
• Only shave with the grain. varies by location on your face/neck, usually down, but not always.
  
  
• If your shaving for work daily, your boss isn't going to check for smoothness, so it just has to look good. You might be pressing too hard.
  
  
• Warm water on the face to start the shave, cool water on the face after the shave and after aluminum block.
  
  
• A good quality after shave lotion will further reduce skin irritation. I like Prosaro.
  
  
• You could consider buying some preshave, but I don't use those. Good old warm water works fine for me.
  
  
• Also, check out r/wicked edge as has been suggested by exaltedbladder.
  
  *edit- formatting

Then: January, 2014

• Escali 100% Pure Badger
  
• Merkur 23C? (Still don't know for sure)
  
• TOBS Jermyn Street Collection Shave Cream
  
• Shark Super Chrome/Stainless (After much experimentation)
  
• Glass Tupperware type bowl from kitchen(for lathering)
  
• TOBS Jermyn Street Collection Cologne
  
• OSMA Alum Bloc (Added a few weeks later.
  
• Nivea Sensitive Aftershave Balm
  
  Now:
  
  
• FS 30mm Finest & Stirling 26mm Finest Ivory. Depending on where on my body I am shaving.
  
• Rockwell 6S w/ #4 Plate
  
• Soap: A lot. Current favorites are B&M Hallows, and Stirling Electric Sheep.
  
• Feather New Hi Stainless - Though still experimenting after getting the 6S.
  
• Georgetown Pottery G20 Scuttle - Cobalt & Purple
  
• OSMA Alum Bloc
  
• Post Shave: Chatillon Lux Colbeck or Stirling Witchhazel and Aloe (various samples)
  
• Nivea Sensitive Aftershave Balm

You are much better off doing this. Disposable blades are a colossal, sucky ripoff.

100 blades - Made in Russia - for $9
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QY8QXM

The best soap - Made in England - for $15
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007MW2ZW

Merkur razor - Made in Germany - for $32
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NL0T1G

Badger hair brush - $13
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G647Y8

The best aftershave - Made in Italy - $14
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0085UECY2

So, $83 with money to spare and it's all you need for at least 12 months. The Art of Shaving is neat, but it's grossly overpriced. Clearly they have latched on to the hipster instagrammy nature of society with a price tag to match. I have some of their sandlewood soap and while nice, it's no better than the soap I listed.

It's funny how classic shaving is all of a sudden a trendy thing. All I know is I love it. I came from the 3 NO 4 NO 5 NO a BILLION blade world. It's a joke. Just go old school and take your time. Enjoy the ritual. Baby bottom smooth in 7 minutes. Modern disposable cartridges are a sad scam that society has fallen for. Complete and total scam.

May as well toss this in...especially if you travel. Love mine.

Parker leather razor case - $14
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001O8NCI4

Thats a full year of supplies and a lifetime worth of hardware (minus the badger brush). Think about that for a minute...

If you have a natural foods store in your area check there. I found this exact bottle there for $6.25 so you can try it cheaper than buying a large bottle.

I've been using alum, then the Thayers, then Aveeno aftershave lotion for about 2 weeks and the results have been great.

It's also on Amazon. It works great for me!

Edit: here's the link- https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BVO6RT2/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1492855428&sr=8-1&keywords=tend+skin

Also the Tendskin Airshave gel helps during shaving and reduces irritation.

I browsed /r/wicked_edge for a bit before diving in. Their FAQ should be a good place to get you started.

I've improved my pre- and post-shave routines as well as using a brush and non-canned shaving cream. Anecdotally, the learning curve wasn't very steep for me (a few nicks and cuts starting out) and I'm noticing that my issues with sensitive skin and ingrown hairs are resolving.

Your start-up costs may seem a little steep, but you can find some deals or cheaper gear and upgrade later. The fact that I actually enjoy shaving and feel better after doing it more than makes up for the initial purchase.

I started with the following:

Razor Emporium Sensitive Skin Blade Sampler pack

Musgo Real Lime Glyce Soap

Parker Safety Razor SYNTHETIC Bristle Shaving Brush

Taylor of Old Bond Street Avocado Shaving Cream

Edwin Jagger DE89bl Chrome Plated Double Edge Safety Razor

Gentleman Jon 3.5 Ounce Alum Block

Nivea:

Post shave balm pack of 3 ($10.90, normally $16.77)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01539X5TA

this stuff

I use this roll on stuff I found on Amazon and have found it to work very well. It helps with razor bumps too!

https://www.amazon.com/PFB-Vanish-Chromabright-93-grams/dp/B005GXQ02I

Cartridge Razor

• Probably the most common razor type nowadays. They'll get the job done and you'll get a decent shave too.
  
  
• The Gillette Mach 3 (three blades), the Gillette Fusion (five blades) and the Wilkinson Sword Quattro (four blades) are probably the most common cartridge razors. They are widely available.
  
  
• You may also see some variations on the above razors. For example, the Fusion ProGlide Power is a battery-operated Fusion that vibrates, and is supposed to help the hair stand on end for a better shave. Some like it, some don't. Your call.
  
  Advantages
  
  

1. Technique matters less with this type of razor because most of them have a pivoting head that runs along the contours of your face. This reduces the chance of you getting the angle wrong and cutting yourself.
   
   
2. Supplies for this type of razor are readily available pretty much anywhere.
   
   Disadvantages
   
   
3. The replacement cartridges are extremely expensive for what they actually are. Gillette's (and other manufacturers') business model is to sell the handle for cheap and charge a fortune for the blades because you've already made the investment in the handle.
   
   
4. The cartridges tend to cut and tug your hair out. This can irritate those with particularly sensitive skin and many people get razor bumps when using these. As a general rule, the more blades a cartridge has, the more likely you'll have this tugging effect. If you don't have sensitive skin, then it should be fine.
   
   
5. These cartridge razors tend to get clogged with hair easily. The problem appears to be worse as the number of blades increases, ergo, the five blade Fusion will clog more easily than the three blade Mach 3.
   
   Technique
   
   

• Most people tend to use foam or gel with this type of razor.
  
  
• A WTG pass will suffice but go ATG too if you can (see "Passes" section below).
  
  
  *
  
  
  Double Edge (DE) Safety Razor**
  
  
• They look like this!
  
  
• Typically range from $20 to $60. I recommend the Merkur 38C as a good beginner's razor. Other reputable brands include Parker and Edwin Jagger. Weishi aren't bad either.
  
  
• These handles can (and often do) last you for life. You can also find them in antique shops if you look hard enough.
  
  Advantages
  
  

1. Blades for these razors are obscenely cheap in comparison to cartridge razors. In the UK, I can buy a 100 pack of Astra blades (my favourite brand) for about £9 on Amazon. That could easily last me a year of shaving on a near-daily basis.
   
   
2. The closeness of a DE shave is unbeatable IMO.
   
   
3. Your blades won't clog up with hair.
   
   
4. There is a certain enjoyment in mastering the art of a DE shave. This cannot be explained - only experienced.
   
   Disadvantages
   
   
5. A DE razor does not typically have a pivoting head like cartridge razors. That means you have to learn the proper technique or you're going to get a few nicks.
   
   
6. There is a little bit of a learning curve. It's nothing most people can't handle. However, if you're impatient or clumsy, DE might not be for you.
   
   
   Technique
   
   

• Hold the razor so it's comfortable, but keep your hand away from the face and more towards the end of the handle. You'll have better control over your wrist and the blade angle.
  
  
• Use minimal pressure. Let the blade do the work for you.
  
  
• Your first pass should be WTG. Your second pass should be XTG. Your third pass should be ATG (see "Passes" section below).
  
  
• Make sure the bathroom is nice and quiet. Listen for the blades cutting the hair so you'll know your perfect angle. It'll eventually be second nature.
  
  
• If you use a DE razor, you could use foam or gel, but the preferred method for most of us is to buy a shaving brush and some shaving soap or a shaving stick. Then you can use this to make lather. This video is a great guide on how to make lather.
  
  
• Since nicks are a bit more likely (especially in the early days) it's worth you buying a styptic pencil or alum block to seal up your cuts. An alum block is also good for soothing razor burn and also has antiseptic properties.
  
  *
  
  Electric Razor**
  
  
• No introductions necessary.
  
  Advantages
  
  

1. Pretty quick.
   
   
2. Can be used on dry skin. No need for shaving soap/foam/gel.
   
   
3. Your odds of cutting yourself are pretty damn slim!
   
   Disadvantages
   
   
4. Shave quality is severely reduced. You will never get as close a shave with one of these as you will with a cartridge razor or a DE razor.
   
   
5. Can be pretty harsh on sensitive skin. Try a pre-shave oil to see if this helps.
   
   
6. Requires either a power socket or battery power.
   
   Technique
   
   

• Oh, come on!
  
  
  
  Preparing the Face
  
  This differs for everyone. Make of it what you will. The general idea is just to get the face moisturised and the hair nice and soft.
  
  I tend to exfoliate my face with an exfoliating scrub, then rinse and apply a pre-shave oil or cream - I use this.
  
  
  
  Applying Shaving Lubricant
  
  This doesn't apply to electric razor users. You guys don't need it.
  
  If you're using a gel or foam, just apply it to the face.
  
  If you're using a shave soap and brush combination, your technique is a bit more important (but totally worth it):
  
  

1. Grab a mug, bowl, or some other vessel.
   
   
2. Wet your shaving brush with (preferably warm) water.
   
   
3. Either apply some soap to the end of the wet brush or put some soap in the mug.
   
   
4. Swirl that brush around in the soap.
   
   
5. Results will vary depending on the soap you're using; the quality of the brush; the softness, temperature and amount of water. If it's not really "whipping" up, consider adding a little more water.
   
   
6. Apply to face at desired consistency.
   
   If you're still having trouble, this is a good video on how to make lather.
   
   *
   
   Passes**
   
   There are three directions you can shave in. Shaving in a specific direction is known as a pass:
   
   

• With the grain (WTG) - shaving in the same direction as the hair grows. You could get away with doing just this. The shave will be socially acceptable, but it won't feel like a great shave.
  
  
• Against the grain (ATG) - shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth. This can be a little harsh if your skin is sensitive. This is especially true if you're new or haven't done good face prep.
  
  
• Across the grain (XTG) - Yep, you guessed it! Shaving across the direction of hair growth. This is a good compromise if you're finding ATG too rough on the skin.
  
  Here is a video about the different types of passes.
  
  *
  
  Post-Shave**
  
  
• If you bought an alum block, by all means run it under water and apply to your face. It'll help to seal cuts, close pores, and also acts as an antiseptic.
  
  
• If you don't have an alum block, splash some cold water on the face to help seal pores.
  
  
• Got nicks or cuts? Either apply an alum block or a styptic pencil. If you don't have these (you should), then you can just rip up some tiny pieces of toilet paper and stick them to your cuts for a few minutes. You can do this as you go along or at the end of the shave. Your call.
  
  
• Apply an aftershave lotion or balm. I wouldn't recommend any harsh aftershave sprays yet. If you've just finished shaving, you've got to treat your skin like a princess. Go for a soothing balm like this one (sorry, I love Proraso). I always use an after shave lotion with little or no alcohol, because alcohol dries your face out and makes you look older.
  
  
  
  Suggested Brands
  
  Razors - Gillette, Wilkinson Sword, Merkur, Parker, Edwin Jagger, Weishi, The Bluebeard's Revenge, Muhle.
  
  Blades - Merkur, Astra, Gillette, Shark, Derby, Lord, Feather, Wilkinson Sword.
  
  You can also buy sample packs like this one.
  
  Shaving Soaps/Sticks - Taylor of Old Bond St, Proraso, Erasmic, Trufitt & Hill, The Art of Shaving, Palmolive, Arko, Omega, Crabtree & Evelyn, Castle Forbes.
  
  Avoid Col. Conk
  
  Lotions/Creams/Oils/Gels - Taylor of Old Bond St, Proraso, Trufitt & Hill, Jack Black, Crabtree & Evelyn, Nivea, Gillette, The Art of Shaving, etc.
  
  
  
  I have intentionally left out straight razors and shavettes because you said you don't want to cut yourself. These have a much steeper learning curve than the other methods I have discussed. You probably will cut yourself if you attempt to use these.
  
  If you would like any further information about shaving, please feel free to message me, comment here, or visit /r/Wicked_Edge. Thank you!
  
  
  

I had this issue for a long time. I tried a bunch of products that worked for awhile (like Tend Skin, which worked but really dried out my face) but never found anything long lasting. I tried DE shaving and while that helped, it was a negligible difference and very time consuming to lather a soap. I finally found a routine that worked out well for me.

I use a combination of Dollar Shave Club products, Alum, and a Shaveworks gel. Heres what I do:

1.) I take a shower and while I'm in the shower I use a face wash from DSC. https://www.dollarshaveclub.com/our-products/clean/daily-face-cleanser

2.) After I'm done washing my face, I exfoliate my face using a DSC prep scrub. https://www.dollarshaveclub.com/our-products/shave/prep-scrub

3.) After I get out of the shower, I pat my face dry with a clean towel and rub on 4 pumps of DSC shave oil. I let it soak into my face for like 15 seconds or so. https://www.dollarshaveclub.com/our-products/shave/pre-shave-oil

4.) I use DSC shave butter on my face and neck. I use a good amount of it. I let it soak on my face for like 15 seconds. https://www.dollarshaveclub.com/our-products/shave/shave-butter

5.) I shave and I'm very careful about the direction in which I shave in. There's some areas of my face and neck that never get irritated so I can go against the grain there to get a closer shave. There's other areas that I have to be careful with because they're super sensitive (Like under the corners of my mouth). As for a blade, I'm subscribed to Harry's and I'm very happy with them. I tried DSC before but I found their blades and handles to be cheap and that the blades got dull faster.

6.) After I'm done shaving a splash cold water on my face and Pat dry with a clean towel. I then run warm water over an alum block and rub it all over my face. I let my face dry after I rub the alum block on it (like 2-3 minutes or so), rinse my face with cold water, and pat dry with a clean towel. https://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Jon-Ounce-Block-Plastic/dp/B00FA35K02/ref=sr_ph_1_s_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1478815659&sr=sr-1&keywords=alum+block

7.) This is the key step for me. I found this product like a month ago and I don't have as many issues with redness or ingrown hairs at all anymore. I use Shaveworks The Cool Fix on my face after every shave. I actually use it after I wash my face every morning and night. I love the way it makes my face feel and it keeps my face very clean. If nothing else, try this out. https://www.amazon.com/Shaveworks-Cool-Fix-5-3-oz/dp/B002UVU7HS/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1478815819&sr=1-1&keywords=shaveworks%2Bthe%2Bcool%2Bfix&th=1

8.) After the Shaveworks dries, I put on DSC after shave balm. https://www.dollarshaveclub.com/our-products/shave/post-shave

9.) Then after the after shave balm dries, I put on DSC facial moisturizer that has SPF in it. Love this stuff too. https://www.dollarshaveclub.com/our-products/protect/face-moisturizer

I know this is a ton of steps and a ton of different products, but I had issues VERY similar to yours for years and it really sucked. My face was constantly irritated. But through trial and error, I was able to find this routine and it's been great for me. Hopefully it'll help you.

I'm using the Merkur 38C and I love it. I have very thick/coarse hair so the extra heft feels great.

I also use the Taylor of Old Bond Street sandalwood scent, it smells absolutely fantastic.

I tend to get pretty bad razor burn so I use Nivea post shave balm for sensitive skin, which also smells great. Using the sandalwood cream with that balm makes my bathroom smell like walking into a barber shop from 100 years ago haha. Even my wife loves the smell.

I definitely do recommend at least trying a pre-shave oil. Everyones different, it may do nothing for you, or it may really help. I use Lather & Wood, and it stopped like 99% of my razor burn

Blade sampler pack, YES!

​

I also highly recommend you try out one of the less expensive options for a shaving brush before jumping to that expensive of a brush. I started with the Perfecto cause it had great reviews and was inexpensive (its just a pure badger hair, nothing too fancy). My plan was to upgrade brushes down the line, but it feels totally fine. If I ever upgrade, I'd get the Parker silvertip brush since its silvertip badger hair, but still only ~$60

​

Edit: 10/10 recommend an alum block or styptic pencil, especially if you're new to wet shaving!

​

Good Luck!

This is what I generally tell everyone to start off with, it's what I enjoyed when I first started and I know it's great products for the price. It's not the cheapest kit out their but if you buy cheaper then you'll probably end up replacing items quickly.

• Razor: Edwin Jagger DE89 There's several variations in the handles, get which everyone you like, I got mine from Amazon for about $30.
  
• Blades: Sample pack from either www.Tryablade.com or any of the major shaving retailers.
  
• Shaving Cream: Taylor of old Bond Street Jermyn Street
  
• Afterhsave: Clubman Pinaud
  
• Brush: Whipped Dog 24mm Silvertip Brush
  
  Shop around, I'm sure you could find some great deals on these items. You can also check out /r/Shave_Bazaar. Also check out the side bar of /r/wicked_edge, there is ton's of info their including the FAQ's.

My friend I’d be doing it a disservice if I didn’t tell you that I had it in my Amazon cart when my girlfriend gave me a sampler pack of aftershaves with it included. The sampler will last me a good bit and I still immediately ordered the bottle on Amazon afterword.

It’s like the quintessential barber smell (I believe a lot of barbers use the powder on their brushes when they get all the hair off your neck). I happen to love that smell and I’ve yet to meet anyone that doesn’t. I’ve lurked in r/wicked_edge for a bit and I often see people sharing the same sentiment. My father payed me a visit today so I showed him my wet shaving gear and he asked me if he could use some of the Pinaud.

I will say, I say it at my local CVS and it was $10, on Amazon it’s $4.80 with prime shipping. My recommendation, buy a lifetime supply lol. But then again I’m also still coming down from the best shave ever so I may be a bit biased haha.

Tend Skin.

I've never used it personally, but i hear it's amazing.

After shave, It burns but it has pretty much reduced irritation/white heads to zero for me. I use this specifically, and it works great. But I imagine something cheaper will work too, seeing as the main ingredient it alcohol.

Also put your razor in alcohol before you shave.

https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4?th=1

Also its really important as some have said to make sure you exfoliate everyday to help avoid ingrowns/white heads. That combined with after shave makes it a lot less miserable.
The few seconds of burn is very much worth not having the painful pore infections

I possess extremely long, extremely thick, extremely coarse, extremely curly hair. Think somewhere between Claudio Sanchez of Coheed & Cambria and the fat guy from Lost except halfway down by back.

Every day, I shower. When I do so, I wet my hair then rub it down with a cedarwood/rosemary shampoo bar (solid-form shampoo composed mostly of saponified shea butter and jojoba oil without any natural-oil-stripping sulfates) and lather it up. I let it sit for awhile, then rinse. After that, I apply a thick coat of dandruff-defense conditioner (liquid form) and let that stand while I wash my body (with a fancy loofa and a really nice bar of cold-pressed, natural soap called "Desert Sands"). I rinse the conditioner out, wring most of the water out of my hair, and then step out of the tub.

I apply a mist of leave-in spray condtioner and let it stand while I shave (using a variety of natural shaving soaps and/or creams with a badger hair brush, a German safety razor, and a number of facial care products including an alum block, witch hazel splash, and moisturizer) and brush my teeth. I finally run a large brush (with scalp-protecting beads on the bristles and a malleable backing to allow it to shape itself to the contours of my head as I brush) through my hair until there are no more knots or tuggy spots..

On work days, I'll throw on my shirt, pull my hair back, then brush it back into a ponytail that I'll hold up with a hairtie. Otherwise I let it airdry into a gloriously fluffy, unbelievably soft, and delicious-smelling mane that encircles my entire head and neck and draws the eye of every woman I pass.

-------

What else would we use indeed!

I'm confused, I just added up these items new, including shipping and it totaled $77.28

Razor $38

2 Kabuki Brushes $11.08

2 Arko sticks $4.79

2 Alum blocks $11.62

20 Blade Sampler 11.79

Don't mean to hijack this thread, but i just decided to hop on the band wagon and after a little research and time i went ahead and bought all the gear to start shaving proper. All of these items have high reviews, but i hope i didn't fall into a fake quality trap like you are describing. Is this all good? (and is it also all i need?)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OPJ1K74/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LEU3PJS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LMNG7UK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NCMMBA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KO46CTA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000053L6Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

If you like balms and want to stay on the cheap Nivea men's sensitive post shave balm is right around the $5-6 range and performs well.

+1 to this! http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0014E2Q8K/ref=mp_s_a_1_sc_2?qid=1418192579&sr=8-2-spell&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70

Get some Tend Skin! I use mine post-shaving and it generally stops the redness/ingrown hairs from becoming a problem. It's a little pricey, but a little goes a long time and it will last you a long time.

Just don't use it too much because it can dry out your skin. Make sure to moisturize after!

Shave down in the direction of the hair growth. It’ll still get you smooth. If clients start rubbing your groin against the direction of your hair growth, tell them to stop or gently move their hand away. Every single night before bed (unless I’ve stopped shaving), I use Tend Skin.

https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4

No more bumps or irritation, period.

Generously apply it in the direction of the hair growth with a cotton ball.

Tend Skin is a god send. I use it on my legs and bikini line and it’s changed my life.

Tend Skin The Skin Care Solution For Unsightly Razor Bumps, Ingrown Hair And Razor Burns, 8-Ounce Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ECQ7G4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JhXyCbJK0CKJ0

Edit: typo.

Get this and this

You can also try Tend Skin or Thayer's Witch Hazel.

I tend to use some leftover ProActiv Revitalizing Toner because it has witch hazel, aloe vera, and glycolic acid (for exfoliation).

God send.

Tend Skin The Skin Care Solution For Unsightly Razor Bumps, Ingrown Hair And Razor Burns, 8-Ounce Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ECQ7G4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_80bYCbDYC4G5K

That and this

It makes a difference!

I have sensitive skin and easily get ingrown hairs too. So this the regime I follow -
Exfoliate for a couple of days before.

Veet sensitive skin hair removal cream

Exfoliate for a couple of days after + Tend Skin Ingrown Hair Solution

Edit : Oh look at that a cake! \o/

[this] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ECQ7G4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) should help.

You're doing everything right. The razor was set up properly, you're doing multiple passes, and, perhaps most importantly, you are excited to get better. Lathers are gonna take some practice, and many people suggest doing "practice lathers" until you get it right (this will also help break in your brush if it is boar hair). Angle is very important, as it determines whether or not the blade is making the optimal amount of contact with your face. Make sure you are shaving in a quiet (if not silent) space when you are first staring, as the sound of your whiskers being sliced will alert you to the proper angle. If after a few shaves you are still having problems you should check back in with /r/wicked_edge . After shaves are a personal preference. I myself don't really use them, so I can't say much on all of the brands; however, I have tried the Nivea Sensitive Post Shave Balm and didn't feel any difference between that and a standard shave, but of course you may have different experiences. You also mentioned neck irritations. When I irritate my neck, I find that rinsing the area with cold water a few times to be the simplest means of soothing the pain and bumps. But, as you get more comfortable with the routine, you will find that the frequency with which you neck is irritated will decrease. Well, I think I got everything, if you please tell me.

I am definitely looking into a glycerin soap to exchange with Dial. Ascent and Himalaya with Shea Butter look promising for shave soaps. Clearly Natural Glycerine looks promising for a pre-shave soap.

Also, I found this Nivea Sensitive Post Shave Balm that has great reviews. Thank you for the suggestion!

I wish I had a slam dunk answer. I tried the EJ aloe vera after shave through a Maggard's sample. I thought it was decent, but I also had sticker shock. At the going price, it's the same price per ml as Penhaligons and priced roughly the same as other high end after shaves like Castle Forbes and DR Harris. To be honest, I haven't tried all of the high end aftershaves, so I can't say whether EJ is as good as the rest of them. Standing on its own, I wasn't impressed enough with EJ's aftershaves to pay the price for a full bottle.

I'm curious how this Proraso aftershave compares in performance. It also has aloe and is about half the price of EJ. Nivea aftershave balm gets lots of great reviews too. I use it all the time and can recommend it. At $7, it's a great value and available at most drug and grocery stores. It's a bit more viscous than EJ but has a good skin feel. It doesn't have much of a scent, which I prefer.

If he doesn't already have experience with shaving with a straight edge, you should go with a double-edge/saftey razor. They require far less upkeep and are easier to learn to use. The general recommendation is something like a Merkur razor.

If you're thinking of going with a badger brush and shave cream, you'll want to get him a nice brush. That will probably be the bulk of what you spend. I personally have a Saville Row brush from QED that I love but I'm sure others can chime in with their favorites.

As for hypo-allergenic shave cream, there's always Prorasso for sensitive skin. Although I don't have exema, I have sensitive skin and my absolute favorite cream is Taylor of Old Bonds Street Avocado. Contrary to the name, it doesn't smell like avocado, but something else incredible.

Lastly, I'm a big proponent of non-alcohol Witchhazel. I have my mom and my gf addicted to this stuff. It's a natural toner and antibacterial. It works great and and doesn't smell like much of anything. It's good enough that I barely use aftershave anymore. Though Nivea sensitive balm is widely accepted as a good aftershave balm.


That's about what I've been using for the last half-decade. The very last bit is razor blades. There are a number of manufacturers from Merkur, to Derby to Feather. Best bet is to buy him a trial pack (5 blades from a number of manufacterers) from a shaving site online and let him figure out his favorite.

Morning Routine:

Take shower. Use conditioner [1] on beard as well as hair. Shampoo/condition early in shower, allow conditioner to soak in while washing body. Rinse conditioner out of hair as the LAST THING you do.

Apply day cream [2] to non-shaved areas of my face before shaving to lock in shower moisture. Use liberally, allow to soak into skin over shave.

Head straight to sink, apply MR GLO [3] to wet face by rubbing the bar on my whiskers, massage in with fingers (no washrag) for ~30 sec with hot water. Rinse 70% of it off, leaving no lather but keeping the slickness.

Normal lather/shave [4].

Rinse, pat dry, apply Witch Hazel [5] with Cotton Rounds. Let sit while I clean up the sink.

Rub in mostly dried off WH, apply Nivea Sensitive Post-Shave Balm [6].

Evening Routine:

Take shower.

While conditioning hair, use gentle exfoliant [7] on face (daily).

Leave shower, pat face dry, apply extra hydrating night cream [8] to face.

Add extra body lotion [9] to behind ears, back of neck, and other dry areas like elbows, knees, shoulders. Dry neck and behind the ears is not to be neglected.

Use Retinol anti-aging night cream [10] on areas to prevent wrinkles, such as smile lines, crow's feet, under eyes, and forehead. A little goes a long way.

Sleep, repeat.

Note: I'm only 27, but you can never start anti-aging skincare too young. I wish I would've started it sooner. If I would have started this regimen at 18, I might not have the hint of crow's feet that I do. Remember that, you young'ins. It's expensive, but your face will thank you later.

Products Used:

1. Organix Argan Oil of Morocco shampoo/conditioner
   
2. Neutrogena Deep Moisture Day Cream SPF 20
   
3. MR GLO Orange Amber
   
4. Stirling Coniferous (if this counts)
   
5. Thayer's Unscented Witch Hazel
   
6. Nivea Sensitive Post-Shave Balm
   
7. Yes To Carrots Nourishing Exfoliating Cleanser
   
8. Yes To Carrots Nourishing Repairing Night Cream
   
9. Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
   
10. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer - Night
    
    edit: it should be noted that I shave daily. Even sundays, haha. I avoid trouble spots ATG, where I'm prone to sensitivity, mostly the bottom half of my neck, where I only ATG one small patch by my Adam's apple. The skin is tougher there.
    
    double edit: Don't worry about being Bateman. You almost never find someone who has a beautiful face that doesn't put in that much effort. A few of my friends (San Francisco, mind you) use concealer and a light facial powder to get rid of some shine and even out color, myself included on occasion. You can hardly tell if you use Physician's Formula mineral powder as a very light coat. Nobody will ever know, and you'll be WAY more attractive. Not kidding you, the stuff is invisible, but does its job.
    
    I guarantee you, especially famous people wear makeup all the time so they can be photo-ready. Normal plebians like you and I are no exception.

I had to change my shaving routine for running because my bikini line became so embarrassing with the rashes and ingrown hairs! I switched to an electric razor: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0018A32XS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

bought a post-shave exfoliant: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002NVBR24/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and a hair growth body cream to make up for the fact that electric razors don't get as close of a shave as regular blades: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MU1C3A9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

at first the extra steps were annoying but now I feel like I'm pampering myself a bit. I still try to avoid shaving the night before a long run but it doesn't result in a rash if I do

Body shave gel... swimmers use it, safe everywhere. Gilette body is good.

Usually better to use body razor/trimmer (face hair and body hair are different), but a regular one will "get the job done".

I got a personal shaver to get what was left, use with talc (optional)

Lastly, follow with Shaveworks The Cool Fix to reduce irritation/bumps

If you want your hole beight and shiny like a porn star's ass, bumper brite supposedly lightens the hole for a more even/smoothed out skin tone

Source: literally my meet-prep kit when i swam (light competitive). Minus bumper brite, im not sure about that, and idk what the long-term use side effects are, use with caution.

link

you know it's legit cuz it says "FOR MEN"

A better idea:

Bump Patrol.

http://www.amazon.com/Bump-Patrol-Treatment-Original-Formula/dp/B003XCP9M6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371825498&sr=8-1&keywords=bump+patrol

On you face and on your groin, it is literally a skin saver.

I think you're looking for an "alum block". https://www.amazon.com/Bloc-Osma-Alum-Block-Ounce/dp/B004NEHR28

Maybe it's the alum block crystal deodorant - quick search for that may be the ticket: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Crystal-Alum-Block-Deodorant/dp/B00IJ3M9HW

I use an alum block. After I shave, I rinse the block in cold water, rub it all over my face, then rinse the block. My understanding is it acts to constrict your capillaries, which reduces bleeding, and swelling. It stings a bit. Worth a shot though? Here's a popular one at Amazon.

this one. 10/10 would recommend.

Good razor choice, in retrospect I wish I had picked up an Edwin Jagger as my first, and probably will if I ever buy another. Personally I would get one with a lined handle or faux ebony because I would be afraid smooth metal wouldn't have much grip, and aesthetically I just prefer it as well. All Edwin Jagger De8X razors have the same head, just different handles.

Personally I would pay an extra £2 and get an alum block rather than a styptic pencil, and use it after every shave regardless of whether I nicked myself or not. It's made of the same stuff, but the block will act as a styptic, astringent, and antiseptic all in one.

I have an Osma block though and it's quite small at 75g. I don't know what websites serve Denmark, but I would try to get a 110g one (of any brand -- it's just a generic block of mineral and quality should be the same regardless.)

Pure bristle means it's a boar brush, it's just been dyed to look like a badger brush. I have a boar brush and it works great, plus it's cheaper than badger.

If you have sensitive skin I'd recommend Proraso shaving soap for sensitive skin (the one in a white tub). I haven't used Arko and don't know how it works, but I was under the impression soap sticks are applied directly to your face so you wouldn't need the brush. I'd get a tub of something just so you can experience the fun of lathering with a brush in a bowl.

Hello! I was in your place about 3 months ago, except I have always used an electric razor since I started shaving. If you are worried about skin irritation I would recommend you do not buy an electric razor.

I was trying to nail down what could have been causing irritation in my routine when I googled something like "electric shaver/razor comparison" and came across this image. After seeing that I've gone old school and am shaving with a safety razor. I get 0 irritation after shaving now and my neck is completely clear except for a bit of PIH left behind from my pre-saftey razor days. Plus I picked up a new skill and actually look forward to shaving now, Idk I guess I find the process relaxing now.

>four blade

You don't need 4! Just 1 sharp one to cut the hair, anything after that is just extra scraping and all that dragging around with all the extra blades is just causing irritation.

here is exactly what I used to shave this morning; about 65$ upfront but after that initial cost buying new blades and soap is something that will happen once every other blue moon as compared to re-upping on cartridges at ~30$ a pack.

• Shaving soap + brush + bowl
  
• Long handle Razor
  
• *Blades
  
• **Alum block
  
  *I only have to shave about once every 5 days or so, so honestly I just use a brand new blade everytime I shave. I'm sure I could probably get 2 or 3 shaves a blade but, at ~14c a blade I'm not too worried about being wasteful- I just want them to be sharp as hell and clean
  
  **Wet face and rub this on after you shave to disinfect and close up any nics/cuts
  
  ...and if you want to go deeper down the rabbit hole /r/wicked_edge can help you out with that. Videos/links on foaming lather, applying lather, shave angles etc. I just winged it though once I finally had everything- I bleed a little bit the first time but the alum block stops it straight away. I rarely cut myself now

still stings like anti-septic spray on open cuts, but does stop most cuts in about 10 seconds. With the safety razor + this i never have a red and blochy neck from irritation.

Been using it for about 2 years now, maybe lost 2mm off the bar? will definitely last. Also after rubbing your neck just dry it, then chuck it in your wash bag, no case needed. Came across it recommended on a forum post relating to shaving related acne or something a few years back?

(this is the one i've been using, you get two, gave one to a friend, if your not uk just change the .uk to your amazon address. It should show up: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004NEHR28/)

Finally if anyone needs a razor recommendation this is the razor i use; https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B001NIYT1Y.

(For beard care I brought a Wahl compact trimmer, depend on your beard needs thought)

Specifically what products do you have? Cause Proraso has 3 items I'm aware of that could be used post shave.

1. They have this, which used to be marketed as a pre and post shave cream and is available in the white line as well: http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Pre-shave-Cream-Refresh-Ounce/dp/B0082BYLS6
   
   
2. They have this, which is an alcohol aftershave splash, I think the only alcohol AS they have is the green: http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Aftershave-Lotion-Refresh-100/dp/B0085UECY2
   
   
3. They have this, which is a balm and recently was re-released in the green as well: http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Liquid-Cream-After-Shave-3-4oz/dp/B0007XBHIE
   
   If you have 1 and 2, I would recommend just using #1 for pre and #2 for post. I found the pre/post cream to be sticky, even in small quantities. I find the whole alum + cream + aftershave to be complete overkill for my skin in terms of post shave. I don't mean it was bad, but I got the same results without alum or cream, so they were unnecessary.
   
   If you have 2 and 3, I would pick one or the other, not both.

Parker 96R
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002IFFSOS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Proraso Aftershave Lotion
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0085UECY2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007MW2ZW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bingo. I'll take this one step further by suggesting that you start shaving with a safety razor, and using a really good, mild shave soap applied with a badger hair brush. The people over at /r/wicked_edge got you covered.

I always had whiteheads and irritation on my chin the day after I shaved. I was using the gilette mach 3, grocery store-bought shaving gel, etc. Every time I shaved, my face would break out the next day where I had shaved. I tried switching to a norelco dry electric shaver, and that helped a bit, but shaving with those things sucks because they don't give you as close a shave, and they are terrible at shaving the neck.

So I read up on /r/wicked_edge, spent a few bucks on amazon on a handle, box of blades (these are RIDICULOUSLY cheap), a badger hair brush, and a mild shave soap and aftershave. Now I'm basically whitehead and irritation-free after every shave. Not to mention I love shaving now, and it's the smoothest, closest shave I've ever had. One really nice bonus is that you won't be dropping $4 per cartridge anymore. Using these old-school blades costs about $0.10 per blade, depending on what brand you get! Be sure to only use the blades once, maybe twice before throwing it out and replacing it. This is key for you specifically, since your face seems really sensitive to dirty / used razors. And at ten cents a pop, you can afford to replace them every other time you shave.

So if you have a few bucks to spend and don't mind trying it out, switch to your grandpa's safety razor-style shaving. I'll include some links (no referral codes, just straight amazon), and some youtube videos that show you how to shave.

One last note: If you do switch to safety razors, watch the youtube videos on how to do it first. You can (and at first, will) cut yourself very easily with these things. You'll learn how to use them, but if you just jump right in and try to shave the same way you did with your mach 3, you'll slice your face up like Edward scissor hands. You have to re-learn how to shave properly.

• Handle: http://amzn.com/B000NL0T1G
  
• Razors: http://amzn.com/B001QY8QXM
  
• Shave Brush:http://amzn.com/B000G647Y8
  
• Shave Soap: http://amzn.com/B00837YY18
  
• After shave: http://amzn.com/B0085UECY2
  
  How-to video: http://youtu.be/HHNHRpWDPvY?list=PL7C10D6F1C8524002
  
  
  

Not sure about the Canada shipping specifics, but here are some cool bowls, or maybe get a personalized one. My favorite aftershave is the Proraso white.

Maggard has some good stands, or you could buy one of mine! ;)

As good or better razor for $16

The Omega 636 is a great brush... If badger is your thing, then get it, but if money is an issue get an omega boar for around $10

Buy a blade sampler to save a bit

The alum bloc is great

I personally don't wash my face before I shave. Just shower. You are stripping your face of all it's essential oils right before performing a 3 pass shave that by itself is the very definition of exfoliating. That's taking away an important cushioning medium for you face against the razor. Not everyone agrees with me on this, so you'll have to experiment to find out what works best for you

Proraso green label is great, but I prefer Proraso white label for sensitive skin which you say you have. Here and Here

As far as the Fine aftershaves go, I have purchased the full sized American Blend and have the entire sampler pack en route to try the other varieties so that I can have a steady rotation of 2 different aftershaves in the future.

The Fine alcohol based splashes are fantastic for a couple of reasons already listed. They smell really amazing and complex, often times capturing similar/identical scents and motifs of much more expensive colognes/splashes at a fraction of the price per bottle. They also have quite a bracing effect, but one that is TEMPORARY. Although this may seem painful to some, I kind of like the idea of having a quick feedback of where my technique may not have been the best. Additionally, this "burn" is very rapidly (~2-3 seconds) replaced by an awesome cooling sensation, along with a soft/tight/dry/smooth effect on the skin...four qualities often associated with the word "taut". I believe it is this rapid transition from initial burn to cool/soft/tight/dry/smooth skin that most people equate with "soothing". Finally, the scents tend to linger longer than most splashes, to the point that many people refer to it as a hybrid or more along the spectrum towards a cologne. Again, this is subjective, but I love this aspect of it.

The one thing I believe all alcohol splashes lack in is overall moisturizing ability, and again, that is quite subjective. So, though it may be overkill to some, I generally follow a liberal application of Fine AS with a 2-3 minute drying period, which I then follow with a non-fragranced/scented aftershave moisturizer: Aveeno After Shave Lotion

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BVO6RT2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_8LMHAb9EGFJJ8

Tend Skin. It’s amazing and saved me so much money honestly because I was going to just go to a doctor but a friend recommended it and I have such sensitive skin I was worried but it worked like a charm. Seriously. Took about a week ish to really get it going but best money I spend every few months because I also use it downstairs.

It sounds like you may be getting ingrown hairs, or just getting razor burn.

I'd suggest trying a cheap DE razor with a brush and soap made for sensitive skin. This is a lot easier on your skin, and with a single pass shave, you should still look ok, while leaving some stubble above the level surface your skin. For an aftershave, I'd use Tend Skin followed with Cornhuskers lotion

Disclaimer - I make and sell some of these products, but many similar products are available at other vendors that will work equally well.

[Tend Skin](Tend Skin After Shave Solution for Ingrown Hairs, Razor Bumps & Razor Burns on Womens legs / underarms / bikini lines & Mens neck / body / head, 4 ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BVO6RT2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MC.XCbBXJQZXQ) is really good for lifting ingrown hairs. I apply it 2x/day when I’ve got one.

You could try this: http://www.amazon.com/RazoRock-Alum-Block-Plastic-Travel/dp/B00F6VM8JE/

It's marketed for men's shaving but it works well and lasts forever. Just wet it and rub onto your skin after shaving.

already mentioned here by ourufnek99, you should give single blade razor a shot.

• http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Classic-Safety-Razor-Straight/dp/B002A8JO48/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1416541257&sr=8-1&keywords=merkur+razor
  
• http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Razor-Double-Edge-Razor-Blades/dp/B000JPMHWK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1416541284&sr=8-3&keywords=merkur+razors
  
• http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-5-3-Ounce/dp/B0031OOHB0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1416541352&sr=8-1&keywords=taylor+of+old+bond+street+lavender
  
• http://www.amazon.com/White-Handled-Omega-Professional-Shaving/dp/B000CB8Q4Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1416541371&sr=8-2&keywords=omega+brush
  
• http://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Jon-Ounce-Block-Plastic/dp/B00FA35K02/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1416541433&sr=8-1&keywords=alum+block
  
  

I switched to a non-alcohol balm since I found my splash was drying out my skin; because there's no alcohol, it's probably doing nothing to help disinfect any cuts or scrapes from shaving. Are there any non-alcohol alternatives for doing this, or should I just use a splash and then a balm afterwards?

Had the same questions a few days back. I understand that allot of the blocks are compressed and can fall apart. I also bout a dish with drip holes so that the block doesn't sit in it's own moisture.

The dish is very small. Perfect size for the block. When the block arrived I was surprised just how small they are.



https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004QVCIKE/ref=mp_s_a_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1494538340&sr=8-5&keywords=alum+block

Spectrum Soap Saver - Color: Clear - 2 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006SFJC3M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_dJnfzbPZ8W9XC

My waxing beautician introduced PFB Vanish for my ingrown hair. I've been using it, as well as exfoliating during shower for about a month.

PFB Vanish. Get it either as the shaving gel or as the post-shave roll on.

It causes the follicles to open up more so that the shaved hairs don't get caught under the skin.

Magic Fragrant Shaving Powder

Review on this product had great insight on how to use it...


That's not to say it doesn't work at all. Just that it doesn't work nearly as well on coarse hairs that it does on fine hairs. In other words, if you're wanting this for your back, legs, arms...you'll be largely amazed at how well it takes off hair. You're unlikely to be impressed with groin, face, etc. where the hairs may be more coarse.


For my case, I bought it for my face. There, it took three treatments before I saw even the slightest hint of smooth, hairless skin. Even then, it still left stubble on the neck and under my jaw. Comparing this with a safety razor where I could get these hairs quite easily, this was a bit depressing. What it did do a good job of was minimizing razor bumps and ingrown hairs.

A lot has been made of the mixing strategy. Yes, it's pain. But that's because the instructions are faulty. If you mix the way it tells you on the can, not only will you be stirring forever, you'll end up with a very slimy, very inefficient solution that will make you think you got scammed. I'm going to help you.

You need:

• A mixing cup. You can use any cup, or you can get official and get something like Edwin Jagger Porcelain Shaving Soap Bowl With Handle, Black
  
  
• A spoon. Or something else to stir with. I prefer a spoon but it's up to you.
  
  
• A shaving brush. You can use your hand, but I strongly recommend against it. Just get a shaving brush. Like Escali 100% Pure Badger Shaving Brush
  
  
• A large towel - you'll use both ends. Or if you're not into messing towels up, consider something like Kleenex Hand Towels Everyday, 60 Count where you can throw them away when done.
  
  
• A preshave balm or lotion, or oil. You want something that is NOT alcohol based. Something like John Allan's Slick Water Lotion, 2 Ounce
  
  
• Something to tame the skin afterwards. Something like Proraso Aftershave Lotion, Refresh, 100 ml
  
  Mind you, the above are just recommendations. Choose whatever products you want, just make sure they are comparable to the above. Or don't use them, but be prepared to be frustrated with your results.
  
  First, to give you a sense of scale and scope. A heaping teaspoon is enough for a grown man's entire face. If you're doing legs, arms, chest, etc, bump it up to two teaspoons. This is just to have enough when you're done mixing. Next, your water ratio should be just enough to end up with a consistency between pancake mix and cake batter; not runny, but not overly thick. You'll know it when you see it. Imagine perfectly made oatmeal "stick to the ribs" style. That's what you want. So if you have a heaping teaspoon of powder, put maybe a barely full teaspoon of cool water in. Then stir slowly using the spoon (or whatever). It will look like it's not mixing; it is. It just takes a while.
  
  Here's the hint: you'll know when you're almost done because you'll get hit in the face with a smell that I can't describe, but you'll know it for what it is. If you've ever used NAIR, or any similar depilatory, it's the exact same smell. Once that smell hits you, you'll notice the mixture getting thicker and it'll all make sense (finally). Usually takes me about 2 minutes end-to-end. If you end up with a consistency that seems watery, use a flat edge (i.e. a knife or something) and add a bit more powder, then continue to stir. Conversely if it feels way too thick (like paste), add a half teaspoon of water and continue stirring. After you do it once, you'll get the hang of it.
  
  Second, DO NOT do this after a shower or after washing your skin. It should probably be the first thing you do after getting up on the days you do it (which is every other day, NOT once a day). Why? You want your skin to be oily, to have some coating to protect it, in addition to the preshave. This is how you can get the best result without burning sensation. So don't wait until after showering to do this.
  
  Now, prep your location. By prep, I mean use the preshave, something that is designed to protect your skin from burn and irritation. DO not use regular lotion, it won't do anything.
  
  Now, it's important to note that this, when mixed, is essentially a plaster. It will go on wet and then dry, just like a cast. That's okay. But be prepared for it to "flake" everywhere. Try not to move too much. You don't want to make a mess.
  
  Apply using the shave brush as if you were applying shaving cream or foam. But go in strokes against the grain. The goal is to lift the follicles and help the mixture do its thing. Make sure you get good coverage. You'll notice that the bottom of the mixture looks dry; that's okay. It'll still apply like a plaster. But feel free to drip a bit of water in there if you're not sure.
  
  You'll need to wait between 7 and 10 minutes (depending on skin sensitivity) for the mix to work. During this time, clean out your mug and shave brush. The mixture should rinse rather cleanly in cold water, but the brush will take some hands-on help (it's safe). Depending on how long it stays on you may or may not feel a tingle. That's a good sign. It should not burn.
  
  After the time has passed, this is where people get confused. You can use a dull pseudo razor (like Pseudo Shaver), if you want, but I found much better results just using a warm, damp towel. You can warm up the water while waiting for the mixture to dry, and if you use the disposables, have one that is your warm water towel and one that is your dry towel. Or you can use a single towel that serves both functions. Wipe the mixture off in firm, slow strokes against the grain. Then clean the towel off and go back over the area vigorously to get the remainder. Dry off with the other towel. Finish up with the aftershave.
  
  If you did everything I noted above, you should see amazing results, with certain exceptions (I could never get the mixture to work at all above my mustache, it did 97% of the job in the groin area, and 99% of the work under my jaw). Figure 15 minutes total time to do. But again, you only need to do this once every other day minimum. My arms have been smooth for three days.

I figure it's only right of me to explain where I purchased everything!

As much as I would like to say that I picked up everything in the picture at a luxury grooming shop off Jermyn Street in London, it's all actually from Amazon. The razor, stand, and bowl were purchased together as a part of this gift set, though since I had no intention of using the included brush or soap, I probably should've purchased them separately.

Speaking of brushes, the brush is a Parker in 100% silvertip badger, which can be found here. As I mentioned in another comment in this post, the brush is a great deal; it's not only cheaper than most other silvertip brushes, but it makes a great lather to boot. Matches the set, too!

As the picture shows, I'm using Proraso shaving cream and aftershave, although I recently picked up some Edwin Jagger aloe aftershave as well. Both smell fantastic, the latter being my preference.

Not show in the picture are Feather razor blades and a styptic pencil, although I intend to switch to alum soon.

And you guys said doing this would be cheaper than using cartridges... ;)

A Fusion ATG everyday on a coarse beard is going to murder your face. That used to be how I shaved for a long time, and my skin hated me.

My suggestions in the immediate term is to step up your prep and shave products. That alone will make a very big, immediate difference without breaking the bank or requiring you to teach yourself how to shave with a safety razor (i.e. a double-edge razor).

My advice is to buy the following:

• Proraso shaving cream
  
  
• Proraso pre-shave cream
  
  
• Omega boar-bristle brush
  
  All-in, you're looking at about $40 in products. IMO, Nivea makes a perfectly good aftershave balm, so no need to mess with that. If you want to try a splash, you could try this, but it's not necessary.
  
  For the prep and shave: after your shower, soak the brush in hot water for a couple of minutes. In that time, wet your face with hot water, then rub in about a dime to a quarter-sized amount of the pre-shave (however much it takes to get a thin layer of coverage without any gooping). Rinse it off with hot water. Your face should feel slicker after the pre-shave.
  
  Remove the brush, squeeze the bristles to get the excess water out, then give it a 1/2- or 3/4-inch line of shaving cream. Go to town on your cheek with broad, swirling motions, lathering right onto your face (you can use a mug or whatnot, but your face works just as well and saves time).
  
  If the cream feels too thick, just add a bit of water and continue lathering. It'll take some experimentation to get the amount of water right (varies based on water hardness). Too little water and it will not lubricate very well. Too much and it becomes a runny mess that doesn't lubricate at all. Add water in little bits. You'll figure it out by feel pretty quickly.
  
  Shave WTG, hot rinse, lather, XTG, hot rinse, lather, ATG. Use as little pressure as possible and try to let the blades do the work on each pass. It should feel like the blades are just barely touching your face. Rinse cold after you're done.
  
  That should help deal with the irritation and improve your shaves in the short term. When you're ready, feel free to move up to safety razors. Probably the best way to start is to get ahold of a basic Merkur 34C razor and this thing. Switch brands every two weeks and slowly work through until you find one you're really happy with.
  
  Good luck!

If you're considering aftershaves you won't be able to find in your local market, I'd highly recommend Proraso Green. It cools the skin and leaves the skin very soft. I'd describe the scent as mature yet contemporary. Appropriate for the young professional and the older gentleman. I use it almost exclusively and get nice compliments from my significant other.

EDIT: Upon reflection (I'm currently wearing the aftershave), maybe it isn't contemporary. It's more of a classic scent, but absolutely appropriate for all ages. Cheers!

> Est-ce que vous auriez des conseils sur les lames, marque, matière etc.

J'utilise des Astrạ, achetées sur Amazon.

>A quelle fréquence vous les changer? Pour info j'ai pas besoin de me raser plus de deux fois par semaine et j'ai pas le poil dur.

Je prends plaisir à les changer plus souvent que je ne le devrais. Ça fait partie du rituel et du plaisir.

En période de rasage quotidien ou tous les deux jours : j'attends deux rasages minimum.

Lorsque je laisse passer plus de temps entre deux rasages, je les change à chaque fois.

>Gel ou mousse à raser ?

Savon proraso pour peaux sensibles, à étaler avec un blaireau et pierre d'alun. Après ça, j'applique un baume Proraso.

I’ll just leave this here... tend skin

Hi there!

I just wanted to let you know that Automod has removed your comment because it contains an Amazon referral link, which we don't allow in the sub.

Could you please edit the URL so that everything from (and including) "tag=" is removed? That way, the product page will still be visible - but no one can make a profit from the link.

Here's the tag free link for an easy copy & paste: https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Ingrown-underarms/dp/B00BVO6RT2/

If you've done that, please reply to this message so I can approve your comment. Thank you!

Ok, ready yourself for product review bombardment! Also, I thought a fun Christmas idea this year would be to give stockings to my close girlfriends with my favorite new products I've tried out this year.

Tend Skin Aftershave - I actually just recommended this product on the post asking about razor bumps. I will never go without this product again in my life. MY GOD it burns! And it smells like pure rubbing alcohol, but it delivers as promised. I've been using in conjuctions with...

Cerave Renewing SA Cream - I use this all over my body because I get crazy razor bumps AND I have keratosis pilaris (chicken skin) on top of a thyroid problem (so I get dry as the desert skin).

Aquaphor - I realize for some people this is an obvious, but I've always had chapped lips, nonstop, and this seems to be keeping them moisturized better than anything I've tried. It's also helping with my psoriasis on my elbow, when I remember to apply.

Stila Stay All Day Lipstick - I don't know who this stays all day on. I can't even make it to lunch without being lipstick-less. Do I need to set it with something?? I've tried applying different amounts to see if that changes the outcome but nope. Sadness.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation - This one I'm kind of on the fence about. I don't hate it. It hasn't broken me out. It's not oxidizing. I still have a nice enough complexion when I take it off at night. But there's just something...thick? pore-y? about it. When I look at myself close up, I see 'bad skin' instead of flawless finish that I want to see...And I don't even feel like I really have bad skin, so much as I just have dry skin.

Shea Moisture Intensive Hydration Shampoo/Conditioner - sigh. I wanted to like this. I needed it to be my holy grail shampoo/conditioner. Sadly it's not anywhere near. My hair somehow managed to feel dry and greasy at the same time after using. Only my hair could accomplish that!

Aussie Moist Conditioner - Frankly I don't know if this does anything good for my hair, but it gives it good slip and it smells AMAZING.

Tresemme Flawless Curls Mousse - I decided to give this a shot for my coarse, dry, wavy hair because I read that alcohol-free mousse helps when you have wavy hair and air dry. SIGH. My hair seems to be...frizzier on top of my head now? I don't know how this happened. The first time I applied, I did just from about my ear/shoulder level down - no good. The next time I did full hair length - no good. Next I waited just a bit so my hair was a little more air dried (not long, maybe 5 minutes longer) - no good. This product is just not for me. Also it leaves a gross residue that doesn't scrunch out.

NEXT UP, I'll be trying out Loreal Air Dry It Spray to see if I can tame the beast!

I also just ordered Joico Ironclad Heat Protectant for when I give up on the poofy beast and straighten it.

I've used Cali White Teeth Whitening Kit for two nights now, technically three, but I paused after the first night to wait for my remineralizing gel to arrive. I will review after enough time has passed to determine if it's working. I chose it because I have crazy sensitive teeth and it doesn't contain peroxide like most teeth whitening systems.

Let me know if you have any questions/want more detail about any of these products!



EDIT: I forgot about my new deodorant! I've been using Donna Karan Cashmere Mist for a few weeks now and love it! I feel so feminine wearing it instead of sharing my husband's deodorant. It works pretty well too cause I'm a sweaty, sweaty girl. It's a very firm texture compared to most solid deodorants, and the scent is sort of baby powder-ish, sort of old-lady, sort of moroccan amber (which is my new fave scent I found thru Nest home stuffs).

A lotion with salicylic acid and/or lactic acid does the trick for me, like this or this. This also works, but it's alcohol-based and is very drying, so I usually follow up with something super moisturizing. Also check out this reddit post from skincareaddiction.

I'll include links but by all means shop around...

• Edwin Jagger DE89 - popular three piece starter razor
  
  
• One of the many creams by Taylor of Old Bond St. - inexpensive and quality
  
  
• An alum block like RazoRock - you can also find some of their artisan soaps
  
  
• A synthetic shaving brush - this one looks to have the same fibres (Plisson clone) as some other very good ones. You could also get a boar brush by Omega or Semogue for eg but these will have a break-in period. Do NOT get a badger brush on your budget; it will be shite. The exception might be this mixed loft Omega 11047 "mixed midget" which is a fantastic little brush; works out of the box like a badger but gets better over time like a boar.
  
  
• Go to your local drug store for Nivea Men Sensitive after shave balm - inexpensive, effective, and widely available.
  
  This is a more than decent starter kit and affordable but you'll also need skills. Check out this poster from /u/mmosh and search for tutorial vids on Youtube by Mantic59 and/or "Nick Shaves".
  
  EDIT: Completely left out blades. You want to sample many kinds to find what is right for you. Something like this.
  
  
  
  

You could go that route, reviews seem positive. Or you could tweak it a little.

Here's one option:

[Razor] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NL0T1G/ref=oh_details_o00_s01_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Brush] (http://www.amazon.com/Omega-Shaving-Brush-10048-Bristle/dp/B003BWNR9A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1397012788&sr=8-2&keywords=omega+boar+brush)

[Alum] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FA35K02/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

With a few bucks left over for [Supplies] (http://theholyblack.com/)

I employed the efforts of Mr. A. Block, Mr. S. Pencil, and Mr. N. Relief. These fine gentleman did wonders even with the weepers. Splashed some After Shave on and started screaming like a banshee.

A recommended Amazon "College Student" budget setup (Total - $64.40):

Baili Razor - $11.99 ( I started with one of these and it still gives a great shave)
https://www.amazon.com/BAILI-T-Shaped-Shaving-Safety-Trimmer/dp/B01M1LFKPE/ref=sr_1_23_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536235584&sr=1-23&keywords=safety%2Brazor&th=1

Razorock Synthetic Brush - $13.99
https://www.amazon.com/Razorock-Plissoft-Synthetic-Shaving-Brush/dp/B01CD6ZCC4/ref=pd_cp_194_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01CD6ZCC4&pd_rd_r=b062e333-b1ce-11e8-96dd-777fa7fb2507&pd_rd_w=vcLdo&pd_rd_wg=MGagW&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=ef4dc990-a9ca-4945-ae0b-f8d549198ed6&pf_rd_r=WKDRYZX6RKWYE4M3FXND&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=WKDRYZX6RKWYE4M3FXND

Double Edge Razor Blade Sample Pack (30 Blades) - $9.95
https://www.amazon.com/Double-Edge-Razor-Blade-Sample/dp/B01N6EEZ60/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536236875&sr=1-7&keywords=double+edge+razor+blades

Proraso Shaving Soap - $10.00
https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Soap-Refreshing-Toning/dp/B00837YY18/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536236319&sr=1-4&keywords=proraso+shaving+soap

Gentleman Jon Alum Block - $7.99
https://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Jon-Ounce-Block-Plastic/dp/B00FA35K02/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536236547&sr=1-4&keywords=alum+block

Clubman Pinaud Styptic Pencil Travel Size .33 oz (pack of 3) - $5.69
https://www.amazon.com/Clubman-Pinaud-Styptic-Pencil-Travel/dp/B00EOAKLFQ/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536236615&sr=1-1&keywords=styptic

Aqua Velva Cooling After Shave, Ice Sport, 3.5 Ounce - $4.79
https://www.amazon.com/Aqua-Velva-Cooling-After-Shave/dp/B001T8OD5K/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536236728&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=after%2Bshave&th=1

You can upgrade later as you can afford it, but this would be a good start. Watch a lot of YouTube vidoes, just search for "Safety Razor Shaving" or "DE Razor Shaving".

Top shelf:
Van Der Hagen shaving brush.
It actually works pretty well, and is my most commonly used one.
Art of Shaving sampler pack brush brush.
I like it, but it seems to take me a lot longer to build lather.
Dolce and Gabbana Light Blue.
Not much to say about it, the wife likes it!
Adidas Aftershave
I like the smell of this one, and it pairs pretty well with the D&G
Coates Lime Shaving Cream!
I love the smell of this stuff! I have Sandalwood too, but it mostly sits in my small chest of things I have for "Another day"
Feather blade bank
Keeps my trash bags from getting ripped open. I have been using it for over a year, and it isn't even half way full yet.

Middle Shelf:
Lady Gillette Safety Razor
This one is the Wife's she loves it and uses it exclusively after she realised how much better it was over cartridges! It did take a while for her to stop thinking that she was going to Sweeny Todd her legs with one.
Gillette Knack Safety Razor
I use this one pretty much every shave. It is fairly mild, but paired with some Sharks it really works well for me!
No Name razor I picked up at an Indian Bazaar for $3.
It has about a 2 inch gap(exaggerating here, but it is huge!) between the blade and the head, so I haven't used it and probably won't! But it is pretty on the shelf!
Styptic Pencil
It works! And gets used!

Bottom Shelf:
Gillette Travel Tech
It has a small mirror inside and an old pack of Gillette blades. Nothing real special but I like it! I haven't shaved with it yet, the handle seems too short.
The rest of TAoS Starter Kit
I haven't used any of these yet, I still have my own soaps, so these kinda just sit around... I should try em though!
Gillette 40s Style Super Speed
I got this off an ebay auction, I haven't tried it out yet either. It came in great shape though! And I plan on giving it a test run tonight!
Gillette Milord
Apparently, it is the same razor as the Super Speed, but with gold plating. Also came in great shape, and I haven't tried it out either!
Shark DE Blades
These are my go to blades! I love em!
Wilkinson Sword Classics
I was buying these guys at Walmart, and I loved em! But then I got Sharks and I haven't had to buy anything else because of how many Sharks I still have left over!
Merkur Blades
I haven't tried these, I honestly have no idea how they came into my possession. They look nice though!
Alum Block
It works great!

Prep is so important. Make sure your skin is as ready as it can be before shaving..A hot shower, or a hot washcloth or towel wrapped on your face for a few minutes. Rub a little conditioner on your face as well during a shower or hot towel soak. Get your skin soft and those pours wide open! What kind of shaving cream do you use? If it's foam in a can or anything Gillette wonder color in a can, throw it away immediately! An easy alternative that makes a world of difference grab yourself a bottle of Kiss my face shaving cream. It will help improve the smoothness of a shave. If you wanna do one even better, grab yourself a bore shaving brush, a shaving bowl and some C.O. Bigelow shaving cream and learn how to lather it up properly and apply it with the brush. Using a brush will help stand the hairs up better so you can get a closer shave...Next, sign up for Dollar shave club and get their middle of the road package. They'll send you more blade then you'll need..I had to cancel my account for the time being because I have stacks of extra blade cases I haven't gotten to yet. You'll save a TON of money and their blades work great. Which leads me into my next tip. Maintain your blades! After every use make sure you rinse all the gunk out from between the blades and then dry it as good as you possibly can!..Most people just give it a quick rinse and toss it back on the counter or wherever while it's still wet..If you dry your blades and don't leave them face down on anything, they'll last much longer...And lastly, when you do all that and actually start to shave after all the prep. Always shave with the grain for the first pass then shave parallel then shave against the grain. Remember to keep your blade rinsed during the process and don't be afraid to lather on a bit more shaving cream, even if its after every couple of strokes..Keep your skin moist and lubricated..Take your time and try to make every pass count. The fewer passes you make the better. Some people will suggest an Alum block to use post shave, but with so many open wounds on your face, I'd hold back on those for now. Not only will it sting like hell for you, it could aggravate any conditions. Only grab one and use as a preventative once your face has cleared up as well as possible...

Also, it would behoove you to learn about Oil cleansing method. My tips may not suit everyone, but as someone who's face use to look like yours and had trouble shaving for so many years. So applying my tips if you haven't tried them already could provide similarly positive results like I had...Good luck!

I’d highly recommend this brush, and this block of alum has lasted me three years.

This?

Gentleman Jon 3.5 Ounce Alum Block in Plastic Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FA35K02/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_1UtYub0495GWX

>the styptic pen was shit. it's already deteriorated to nothing, and it wasn't really the idea I got when it was explained to me. It was just a small piece of low quality alum in the form of a fat stick. It didn't work well and wore down fast. thinking of replacing with this: alum block

Be aware of the difference between an alum block (which is an astringent / post shave treatment) and a styptic pencil (which is only meant to be used in case of bleeding nicks and weepers). Alum has some styptic properties, enough for very small lesions, but is too weak for a real nick.

There are a couple things people suggest around here. One is a pure glycerin soap as a face wash in the shower. Another is a double edge safety razor with shaving soap and a brush. The third thing is an alum block. Some have good results some do not. I would start with the glycerin soap and the alum block. They won't run you much and may even be available at yor local stores. If you want to check out DE shaving check out Stirling or Maggardstarter kits.

I forgot to add using Thayer's Alcohol Free witch hazel as an aftershave. You can also pick up store brand witch hazel at almost any pharmacy or grocery store but it doesn't smell as nice as Thayers. Witch hazel is an astringent and a toner.

You are very welcome. A couple things I wanted to add.

I use an alum but she doesn't. & I'm pretty sure she uses this lotion after a shave, but I don't dare wake her to ask.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FA35K02/ref=redir_mdp_mobile

Would you say your skin is oily to the touch, or dry, or in between? One thing I’d suggest is getting a moisturizing after shave lotion, I think that could help. I use this one

I had the same concerns about shaving and skincare, and I asked basically the same question you're asking. I recommend you to check out r/wicked_edge. It's an entire sub dedicated to shaving, and after a year of heading their advice I can vouch for the benefits of wet-shaving with a double-edge safety razor over cartridge razors (and its waaaay cheaper).

But I can list a few basic things that'll help:

• Wash your face before you shave. It's preferred if you use a soap or face wash that has a lot of glycerin in it. This Whole Foods soap is constantly recommended and I've used it for a year with no problems.
  
  
• When shaving, use a fresh, clean towel and pat your face to dry off. You can also just let your face dry on its own without doing anything.
  
  
• The thing about shaving and acne is how shaving causes irritation, so if you can limit irritation you'll be less likely to break out. That said, try using a pre-shale oil before you apply your shaving cream. You can use some of the oils that are used in OCM; like Jojoba, Castor, Almond, etc. I combine equal parts jojoba and castor oil just to mix it up.
  
  
• Map the grain direction of your facial hair, and shave like you're taking the razor in the same direction your hair is going. This will limit irritation but may not give you as close a shave as you'd like, so it'll be at discretion how you go about it.
  
  
• Use a non-alcoholic/non-menthol based aftershave. I recommend Thayer's Witch Hazel and Nivea Post Shave Balm for Sensitive Skin. Some more acne prone shavers have said that they use the Stridex in the red box in place of witch hazel or some other astringent, but I have yet to try that.
  
  
• Moisturize after you've applied whatever after-shave products you used and your face has dried. Then sunscreen. Always sunscreen.
  
  
• Scope out some non-irritating shaving creams/soaps.
  
  And there ya go. This ended up being much longer than I was expecting.

This is an EXCELLENT beginner's set. Razor, Brush, Stand. It doesn't have all the bells and whistles, but the brush is fantastic (I have entirely switched to this brush, over some other more "fancy" brushes) and the razor is a good weight with a good medium length. Plus, having a tidy stand is bonus points.

This is one type of soap/mug set.

And this is another soap/mug set. I personally prefer this type of bowl. It's also much heavier than it looks (I think it's ceramic). The brush is crap, though.

This is a cheap, good-smelling aftershave. But it's alcohol based, so he might not like it (stings slightly).

This gets you nearly everything for under your budget. The two items I'd say are missing are available at Wal-Mart for less than three dollars combined. You need the pre-shave oil (Shave Secret, $1.50 at my local WalMart) and a styptic pencil ($1.15 at my local WalMart).

Even after these, we're still around the $90 mark, and these items will last for literally years (except the consumables, of course).

There's your complete set, minus blades. The purchase of blades is a rather personal affair, though, and I'd recommend a sampler pack. There are literally dozens of sampler packs available. Here's one. Bear in mind, however, that most people can do three to six full shaves (i.e., the entire face) using ONE blade.

One piece of advice: If you want him to enjoy it, don't skimp on the brush. In my opinion, probably seconded by a majority of wet-shavers, the brush is going to be the single most important deciding factor for a noobie who isn't purchasing these things for himself in determining whether he likes the process or not. There's virtually no doubt that he'll like the results.

Does this help?

Sorry to hear about the acne, pal. My personal favorite is Clubman. It's inexpensive and has a classic scent that's not too strong. http://www.amazon.com/Clubman-Pinaud-After-Shave-Lotion/dp/B000053L6Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1377171471&sr=8-2&keywords=clubman+pinaud

This

Dude.

This stuff

Will change your life. I went from having to use hair clippers to shave cause I got ingrown hairs so bad, to shaving with a double edge. I had my first clean shave at 36 because of bump patrol.

No joke.

Bump Patrol Original Formula After Shave Bump Treatment Serum - Razor Bumps, Ingrown Hair Solution for Men and Women - 4 Ounces https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NPJHQU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_O4H.BbK3883K0

Soap is too dry. Find a regular face wash. Then use a pre shave oil. That should definitely help with the glide and further prevent irritation. This is something that you put on after you get out of the shower and before you shave.

High Quality Art of Shaving Sandalwood (I also use Lavender on my clients) $25

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000FGTTTM/ref=mp_s_a_1_10_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1510281356&sr=8-10&keywords=pre+shave+oil+men&dpPl=1&dpID=41zgyvoRxPL&ref=plSrch

EZ Blade (made with very, very moisturizing oils and alcohol free. Can even be used by itself but I prefer using this. Gently putting a hot towel over it. Leaving some product on then putting the shaving cream over and shaving. More conveniently for you, you can put a 4-5 drops in your palm, rub it around, and then run your hands over your neck and let the oil soak in. Then apply your lather) $12

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01DYTHBGY/ref=mp_s_a_1_16_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1510281516&sr=8-16&keywords=pre+shave+oil+men&dpPl=1&dpID=31nU%2B%2B-uUrL&ref=plSrch


If it is very bad, you may want to use a specific anti-bump product such as this one $12


https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000NPJHQU/ref=pd_aw_vtph_194_bs_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=B8QBYCWR5VE1GRT6TM67

Like others have already said, try shaving with a lighter hand. Razor burn happens when the hair follicle is cut below the actual surface of the skin, then digs in and causes irritation. So use a lighter hand. No need to get so close.

Hope these things help. A shaving cream with more moisturizers such as jojoba oil work very well. Jojoba oil has the smallest molecule closest to the size of our natural pores, allowing it to sink it better and actually absorb all the way.

BUMP PATROL IS FANTASTIC USE THE AMAZON SMILE LINK TO DONATE A SMALL AMOUNT TO THE CHARITY OF YOUR CHOICE!
:D

A good aftershave such as Nivea sensitive after shave balm (6$) might also help you

https://www.amazon.com/NIVEA-Sensitive-Post-Shave-Balm/dp/B0014E2Q8K/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1510672179&sr=8-3&keywords=nivea+sensitive+aftershave+balm&dpID=51FHxLsz60L&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

https://www.amazon.co.jp/Nivea-After-Shave-Soothing-Sensitive/dp/B0014E2Q8K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499413178&sr=8-1&keywords=nivea+for+men+after+shave

Hey girl! I also have issues with razor bumps sadly :( but I use this, and honestly it's a miracle worker! It's a little expensive, but I'll apply this directly after shaving, then lotion, then use it again the next day. Anytime you see a bump, you can use it and it'll lessen the bump within 12 hours.

Tend Skin The Skin Care Solution For Unsightly Razor Bumps, Ingrown Hair And Razor Burns, 8-Ounce Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ECQ7G4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_sBDvxbKZDX8B1

Ha! I have horrible issues with my idle hands as well. There's also a product called Tend Skin which helps a lot with keeping your skin clean and less bumpy after shaving or waxing. There are a ton of DIY recipes online to make your own - it works really well!

It's normal especially the first few times. I used to shave my legs after soaking in a hot bath and that really helped. And I used TendSkin, it's like magic and the bumps will be gone.

I used to get awful ingrown hairs from any kind of hair removal - shaving, waxing, it didn't matter. Really painful red angry bumps, especially in my underarms & bikini line. A friend introduced me to Tend Skin. It has been like a miracle! No more ingrown hairs!

Has anyone here used Tend Skin? Tend Skin The Skin Care Solution For Unsightly Razor Bumps, Ingrown Hair And Razor Burns, 8-Ounce Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ECQ7G4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_NpAjzbHV9HK5N
This product has changed my life when it comes to shaving. I struggled with pale skin and dark, thick hair as an adolescent...everywhere😒 and have struggled ever since. I can't stand my body hair! I would get the worst razor burn everywhere and the worst area was my bikini line/lady parts and then I was told about Tend Skin when I got my first waxing at my mom's salon. Just a little bit of Tend Skin on a cotton ball after shaving has been making all the difference for me throughout my life. I know it's such a struggle...ach! I've been getting waxed during pregnancy so far bc I can't see what I'm doing anymore. I come home and dab the Tend Skin on where I got the waxing and it has worked so far. Maybe this will help some of you...

https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4 this product is amazing, I swear by it

you can try the nip+fab glycolic fix pads! those are super cheap and you get a lot of product, but it's not ab. those were what I was using, they're not super strong but they work well as a starter!

tbh what's worked even better for me than a chemical exfoliant is a product called tend skin. it helps prevent ingrowns, and it's AMAZING. it's a little pricey but it helps so much i don't even care, if you can find it that's my favourite product for prevention!

tend skin

I use TendSkin and it works well for me.

I just read about this product that seems to be exactly what you’re asking for on Buzzfeed! The reviews are stellar, it looks like it might be worth a shot :) Tend Skin The Skin Care Solution For Unsightly Razor Bumps, Ingrown Hair And Razor Burns, 8 Fl. Oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ECQ7G4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_B.DLDbMHYWP9Y

Also wow you’ve got a great skincare routine, I clearly need to take a page out of your book lol.

In general, exfoliating before shaving should help.

Check out Tend Skin - they have different products, I have used the one I linked with much success.

Also, try using Coochy as shaving gel. Yes, it is meant for intimate parts. Yes, it is amazing at keeping you rash-free. No one has to know.....

I do have not used the following advice myself, but strippers swear by using Neosporin as shaving cream and then applying a thin layer of gel deodorant on the freshly shaved skin. I would be cautious and patch-test if you decide to try this.

I wish electrics worked for me. They don't.

There was a good infographic a few weeks back, but it covered the best way to shave, bar none. I will assume that everyone knows some of the shaving basics, so just highlights here.

First, shave in the shower.

Next, use a scrub to exfoliate your skin. HUGE difference. You don't have to do it every day, but a few times a week.

As to soap, I used a liquid, but your choice here.

I use the Gillette razors that are very good but are so damned expensive. I also have been using the same razor for two weeks using the trick of stropping the blades on my jeans. So far, it has surprised me how well it is working.

Last, use moisturizer because shaving is harsh on your skin and for those that get ingrown hairs, nothing, but nothing beats Tend Skin.

tendskin should become your new best friend. You can even make your own

I had quite a bit of luck with Tend Skin. It's a little spendy, but it's the most effective solution I've come by.

Every attempt i make just breaks my body hair at the skin level, leaving me with ingrowns, its terrible. I am hoping with continue used this will happen less. I also bought some stuff that helps immensely after hair removal and before. Waxing I like better, all though the last time I went, a different woman did it and i had terrible results, just like epilating.


The general sentiment though seems to be that people love them with continued use.

Someone here recommend tend skin care https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B001ECQ7G4/ref=ya_aw_oh_bia_dp?ie=UTF8&psc=1. It worked really well for me, what I do is use a shaving gel for sensitive skin then after shaving use a moisturizing body wash. I've found that helped for me as well as using https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B0066BEPJO/ref=ya_aw_oh_bia_dp?ie=UTF8&psc=1. It keeps my skin feeling well hydrated for the whole day and no need to reapply. I hope this helps.

Have you tried something like this? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ECQ7G4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s02?ie=UTF8&th=1

I combine that with a traditional brush, traditional shaving cream and a DE safety razor. I don't have as much irritation as I used to.

I use Nivea Sensitive Post Shave Balm around my member. Feels and smells freaking great, and is a slight disinfectant. That'll help with irritation, and ingrown hairs. I follow up with a facial moisturizer, and I'm done. I'll do this daily, after my shower. After a couple of days, I might add gold bond, but I find it's a little too much right after a shave.

I highly recommend these Nivea after shave. They are the best moisturizer and after shave combination. They don't leave that oily feel you get from lotion. Your skin will absorb it almost instantly. The only downside is that it doesn't seem to have any spf protection.

This help me prevent pimples too so there's that. Probably because my face will get too dry.

Been using this for 4 years now.

I'm only 29, and disgusted by the amount of replies involving electric shavers. I have an extremely sensitive neck, but never have issues with razor rash or breakouts. Here's what you need:

THIS
THIS
and THIS

Take a long hot shower, then shave. Whip up some soap and apply with the brush, going against the grain. This suspends the hair in the soap. Then shave your face once, going WITH the grain, using short, quick strokes.

Apply soap once again, making sure you use hot water to whip it up. Shave a second time, this time going AGAINST the grain.

Rinse your face with COLD water. This is important. You need the pores closed back up ASAP to prevent irritation. Then apply the aftershave balm.

Keep in mind, there's a learning curve to using safety razors. You WILL cut yourself. but once you learn, I promise you'll have no more irritation.

I live in Florida with oily, acne-prone skin. I use mostly AB, but there are some western products that I haven't been able to find better replacements for. Here's my oil-conscious morning routine:

• Cleanse with sulfur soap. I'm currently testing this out on my acne and recently switched from Cosrx's Low PH Good Morning Gel Cleanser.
  
  
• Tone with Cosrx Natural Bha Skin Returning A-sol.
  
  
• Reduce excess sebum with Cosrx Bha Blackhead Power Liquid 2-3 times per week. I find that this helps keep my pores clean and reduces oil production.
  
  
• (After waiting 20 minutes) Protect with Biore UV Aqua Rich sunscreen.
  
  
• Moisturize and prime with Nivea Men Sensitive Skin After Shave Balm, which is seriously the best makeup primer I have ever used. Possibly also the cheapest. Feels like nothing on my face, yet allows makeup to stay on all day. Definitely one of my HGs.
  
  
• Color correct with Missha Magic Cushion. It's lightweight, provides good coverage, stays on and doesn't get cakey.
  
  
• And, if I know that I'm going to be outside or busy all day, I'll spray on Skindinavia's Makeup Finishing Spray, which works better than powder and doesn't dry out my skin.

Muhle makes their razors out of Zamak. I'd be hard pressed to call it BIFL.

I'm going to make a quick BIFL list with short explanations on why.

*Links are my preference.

======BASIC REQUIREMENTS======

• Pre-Shave
  >Optional, depends on your face. Warm distilled water works for me.
  
  
• Shaving Cream
  >Find one that suits you. Hard soap lasts longer, creams are better for hard water.
  
  >*Proraso
  
• Razor
  > When choosing the razor, make sure it is made out of solid stainless steel. The Muhle listed (to my knowledge, is made of Zamak steel (brittle, will break if dropped several times)
  
  >I'd personally suggest a Vintage Gillette/ Feather/ Weber/ Pils/ Above the Tie/ iKon
  
  >*Weber 316L SS Razor
  
  >Technically speaking 303 steel is not as ideal as 316L
  
• Brush
  >The brush may not last a lifetime, but is well worth getting one that you enjoy. Hair types vary and cater to different faces, note the grades of badger hair in particular.
  
  >There are different sizes and a deep or normal set which should also be taken into account.
  
  > *Wipped Dog Silvertip 22mm Regular Set
  
  
• Bowl
  >I like a homemade bowl. If you're going to be using one every day, it's best to just get one that looks nice.
  
  >This is expensive, but this should give some ideas.
  
  
• Blades
  >Each razor+blade combination is different. If you have a BIFL razor, you will probably not have to retry every blade known to man.
  
  >Blade Sampler
  
  >I love my *Silver Blues
  
  
• Aftershave
  >Depends on your face and scent preferences.
  
  >I have sensitive skin and my face dries out easily so I always get *Nivea Sensitive Shave Balm
  
  

  
  <br />
  Cartridge shaving can give fair shaves in short amounts of time.<br />
  <br />
  Wet shaving takes longer, even when you get better at it.  It can in fact be enjoyable.<br />
  <br />
  As for technique and how to: /r/wicked_edge.<br />
  <br />
  TL;DR: GET A RAZOR THAT IS **SOLID STAINLESS STEEL** NOT [ZAMAK](http://www.reddit.com/r/wicked_edge/comments/20g48v/what_if_we_want_a_more_serious_longer_lasting_de/cg32pv8).

If you like AoS pre-shave oil, but are not fond of the price, check Amazon. Cheaper there.

On the Nivea aftershave, I've used that one, but it's not the nicer one. This one is much nice IMO, and I say that having used both. That said, I'm currently using an AoS Lavender after shave and like that fairly well, can be had relatively cheap from Amazon also, but not as cheap as the nice Nivea one.

well there are after shave splashes that primarily consist of alcohol and there are after shave balms that are more moisturizing and lotion like. personally i dont like the splash kind because it dries my skin out and i dont feel like putting alcohol on a freshly shaved face is the healthiest thing for your skin.

you can look for something like this at your grocery store for about $5 i think.

Try experimenting with a different technique, different soap etc. Avoid shaving over the same area multiple times. If you don't use any aftershave maybe you should investigate something like this.

I decided to go for the Nivea for Men Sensitive Formula because I am a little weary of putting alcohol on my face. It smells really nice and is not overpowering.

Nivea for Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm

http://www.amazon.com/Nivea-Men-Sensitive-Comfort-3-3-Ounce/dp/B001FB5IGE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373119174&sr=8-1&keywords=nivea+aftershave+sensitive

Hi.

What is the difference between this two aftershave? Is it just their sense? L'Occitan/ Cade.

http://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-2-5-Refillable-Roll/dp/B002NVBR24/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1343952976&sr=8-3&keywords=tend+skin

Works like a charm.

I use The Cool Fix as my aftershave treatment, as per a recommendation of one of my lady friends (what better place to learn how to treat razor burn than a lady?), and it works phenomenally. It will sting like hell, but it does a remarkable job of calming down the howling winds of Hell blowing on your neck. It also makes your face feel really smooth to increase the BBS / DFS.

I've struggled a lot with ingrown hair over the years, but I changed everything up 3-4 months ago and have gotten good success. In pursuit of better shaves and skin I changed razors from disposable mach 3s to a DE safety razor and have gotten good shaves, but changing up what products I used probably have made as much difference. Specifically, I had great success with the cool fix, once or twice daily, and REN scrub 3-4x weekly. Otherwise, how is your shave technique? A few small changes there could make a world of difference.

The advice I got from the esthetician I went to a few times for Brazilians was to physically exfoliate every other day after a wax as well as use some kind of aftershave. I used an exfoliating glove and The Cool Fix and never had any kind of reaction afterwards.

I was considering waxing because I get HORRIBLE razor burn the day after shaving and it looks awful. I decided to try one last thing before I decided to try waxing, and it worked amazingly. It's called The Cool Fix and a small bottle is ten bucks. It's just like a lotion after shave, and you can use it everyday. I literally don't get any razor burn with this stuff. It's awesome.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002UVU7HS/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1419821649&sr=8-1&dpPl=1&dpID=41gqMyTrEGL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

I get really bad neck bumps too. I use an Alum Block and Bump Patrol. I never get them when I use those products.

I use a straight edge razor and Bump Patrol to keep ingrown hairs at bay. It's been working so far. Like /u/RrrrrrOrrrrrR said, if you want any more info about shaving /r/wicked_edge is a great place to go.

I use something called bump patrol. In my experience, it has worked pretty well.
Generally, I think their target demographic is black males, but I think it'd be worth trying for anyone suffering from razor bumps. Here's the link.

It could very well be the electric razors, bud. Have you been to r/wicked_edge? I suggest going there and reading the FAQ bar on how to shave with a DE safety razor. I've been doing it for a few months and it's completely transformed my face (although I switched from disposables, not electric). My best friend has been using an electric for years though and complained about irritation. I got him to try the DE safety razor and he really loves it. His face has cleared up and he doesn't get ingrowns anymore.

If you try the safety razor, I recommend these starters:

Razor
Shave kit

Or you could try this system which got positive reviews by a user on wicked edge. Bevel

I recommend shaving after a shower, using a thick lather with a brush, and shaving with the grain only. Study your face before you shave. Notice which directions the hair grows on different parts of your face, and be careful to shave with that growth pattern. Use some alum and an after shave with alcohol in it afterwards to reduce redness and ingrown hair.

You could try using an alum block as your deodorant.

I know you said you want to use amazon for the free shipping, but the Omega Mighty Midget is a fantastic starter brush, and even with shipping it will cost you around ten dollars less than the Parker brush you were looking at.

Also, look into getting an alum bar in place of the styptic. They last a lot longer than styptic pens and will stop small knicks and cuts from bleeding just as well.

You need to use an alum block. Just rub it on your face after shaving, let it dry, and then wash it off or rub after shave on your face with it. I used to get razor burns and irritation but it stopped after I started using it.

http://www.amazon.com/Bloc-Osma-Alum-Block-Ounce/dp/B004NEHR28

Although I was given this advice for facial hair I guess it applies here too

-Shave after taking a shower

-Use shaving cream (although meant for face, skin is skin)

-Shave in direction of hair growth (some people do a pass in direction of hair and against for a closer shave)

-Right after shaving I would try using this; I use it on my face after shaving and it helps calm the irritation. You just wet the stone and rub it against the target area. After 2-3 mins just wash it off. I normally would put aftershave on at this point but I doubt you want to use that in your happy area =P

Other than that just make sure the blade you are using is not extremely used and dull.

After shaving rub some potassium alum wherever you have shaved. Gets rid of irritation for nlme every time. Lasts a really long time too. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004NEHR28/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1376373568&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY190

I got mine off Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Alum-Block-Osma-Pack-Value/dp/B004QVCIKE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1395953282&sr=8-2&keywords=alum+block). You'll see in some of the reviews most people tout its effectiveness against acne, but some people can also be really allergic to it. The blocks are kind of small but they last a long time. Honestly, I'm not sure if the brand matters since they're all made the same way. I've had the same experience with the $2 block at my local Indian grocery store than with the Amazon ones.

Yeah, I agree with everyone about the nice A/S. All good suggestions.

Maybe in the future after I see if he "gets" this.

I might show him some of the Amazon reviews for Clubman Pinard ("While merely holding this bottle to pay for it, I impregnated the lady at the cash register when her eyes met mine.") or the one by Ron Swanson. https://www.amazon.com/Clubman-Pinaud-After-Shave-Lotion/dp/B000053L6Y

I'll tell him Pinard is too dangerous for him to handle - wait till you're older. In the meantime, I'm having too much fun teasing him about the AXE. ;)

I use unscented deodorant, so far my favorite is Liquid Rock by Kiss My Face. My daily scent comes from my aftershave, most usually Pinaud by Clubman.

My skin is pretty oily, and i love this stuff. Always get compliments on the scent if a woman is actually close enough to smell it. I haven't shaved in almost 3 months, but i still dab a little on my beard if i'm going out.

http://www.amazon.com/Clubman-Pinaud-After-Shave-Lotion/dp/B000053L6Y

You're welcome.

Here is the amazon posting. I'm in michigan http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000053L6Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1368369431&sr=8-1&pi=SL75

I had the same problem but these have really helped me:

Philips BodyGroom

Bump Patrol After Shave



If you need to go even closer, use the BodyGroom first then a double edge razor.

Yeah, you're skin and irritation is very similar to mine. The bump patrol will be your best friend : ) I'm not saying it will go away 100% but it will go away enough so others don't notice it.

By soap I mean Cetaphil. https://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Gentle-Cleanser-Skin-Types/dp/B0731D4FT3?th=1

Use cetaphil like you would shaving cream. I learned this from nurses in the hospital that have to shave comotose patients.

So...was face with cetaphil. Put shaving oil on face and put a layer of cetaphil on top of the oil, then shave. Then wash off excess soap and oil with whatever cleanser you normally use, Garden of Wisdom or whatever. Then splash on the bump patrol. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NPJHQU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Wait 10 mins or so and then moisturize.

I won't tell you how to map because you should just shave in whatever way hurts your face the least. It will probably change ever year or two.

Also, often the first and second shave with a new blade will be rough. I run the blade over the inside of a pair of jeans once or twice to avoid this. Other people "cork" the blade. Only do this if you continue to cut yourself for seemingly no reason.

And again, don't go for closest shave possible. Just go for a good shave. Ingrown hairs happen because you shave too close.

Do consider laser on that part of the face and ask if they can remove the scarring that is there, as well as the hair. I'm going through that process now. The hair was removed easily, the scars are proving to be a tougher job, but there has been some improvement.

I found laser did help, hormones should help more. I suggest a fascial brush to gently exfoliate before shaving. Don't over shave, if not everything is done in the first pass, use an electric shaver later. Also, this aftershave works well and doesn't smell strong or musky.

Depends! Since your foundation sits kind of heavy and dry, I'd say go with a water-based primer to try and get a bit of hydration. On the cheap side, tons of girls over at /r/makeupaddiction really dig Nivea for Men After-Shave Balm. It happens to work really well as a primer, if you don't mind smelling like dude for a little while. Pricier options include Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Primer. Those are usually my go-tos when my skin is dry, otherwise I use Benefit Porefessional.

 

On a related note, are you using a moisturizer before applying foundation? You absolutely should be if you're not already. Just give it 5-10m to sink in before starting makeup. Skincare in general (see: /r/skincareaddiction) can go a long way towards making your makeup look great.

 

Last tip would be to try blending your foundation out with a slightly damp sponge (Beauty Blender, RT Sponge, etc) instead of a brush. Can help give your foundation a more 'dewy' look.

Pulled this from my own Instagram because I couldn't find the original on my phone, so sorry for the b&w filter, but this is what I'm currently rocking, except for the blade.

The razor is a Gillette Fat Boy adjustable double edge razor that I cleaned up (they only made them from like 1958-61 or something like that, so usually if you find one they're not in the best condition).

Instead of the Astra blade I've moved on to these which work better for my skin.

Soap, pre-shave oil and aftershave are all from Grimm Blades, the "Smolder" collection.

Honestly, the oils are shit as far as function. The soap works pretty well, but I have super sensitive skin, and the oils just weren't cutting it for me, but I'll be damned if they aren't the best smelling things I've ever used in my life. The pre-shave oil wasn't entirely terrible, so I'd use that, but the aftershave never helped, so I started using Nivea sensitive aftershave balm on my actual neck, and just applying the Grimm Blades aftershave to the back of my neck and behind my ear. Since the Nivea is near-scentless, it works out pretty well. Like, seriously, the Smolder set is my favorite smell of all time.

I have no clue what brand the brush is since it was a gift, but it's badger hair and works really well.

I stole the mug from my wife.

Edit: typos

I actually found it in the store today. Smelling it, though, I found it a little strong. I'm sensitive to some fragrances and I can only know for sure after having it on for a while.

When it dries, there is no scent? Maybe I should have applied some to my skin while I had it open to make sure, especially if it's so effective! It sounds like just what I was looking for :)

Thanks!

I shave my legs, armpits, and lady parts daily and almost never get razor burn or ingrown hairs anymore. I used to only shave once every few days because my skin would get so irritated, but I've found that with this process I'm able to shave daily with no issues:

1. Trim long hair first
   
   • Like others have said, if it's been a while since you shaved the area it's a lot easier if you trim the hair down prior to shaving. If you don't have a trimmer using scissors is fine.
     
     
2. Exfoliate
   
   • I recommend doing so once a week or so if you're shaving regularly, or prior to shaving if it's more rare of an occurrence. I really like the Lush Ocean Salt scrub and the Haus of Gloi Sugar Exfoliant
     
3. Use good razor blades
   
   • This is the most important thing. Don't use crappy disposable blades; even a lot of the "better" drugstore brands would still give me bumps and ingrown hairs (like Mach 3 Turbo and equivalents). I currently use the Dorco Shai 6 Smooth Touch blades though I bought one of the Pace 6 Plus handles because the men's razor handles are much sturdier (the Shai handles are entirely plastic and break easily if dropped, and the men's are mostly metal and a lot more sturdy).
     
4. Use a good shaving cream
   
   • Ditch the aerosol foam stuff, it's not helping you much at all. Conditioner is better than those shaving foams. There's a lot of different options, but I've found that for my skin the best are the thicker creams that contain some kind of shea or coconut butter. I really like Lush's Dirty shaving cream, but it's rather expensive so I've switched to the Van Der Hagen Shave Butter that's like 1/4 of the price and works just as well.
     
5. Switch out blades often
   
   • I switch out my razor cartridges every 3 days, which seems to be the limit before they get dull enough to start irritating my skin and giving a worse shave. Don't bother with places like Dollar Shave Club -- they literally just buy Dorco blades, re-brand them, then mark them up. Just find an online retailer and buy direct from them.
     
   • Also, if you do go with Dorco, there's absolutely no reason whatsoever to pay full price. They have some kind of sale every 2-3 weeks so I always wait until they're having some kind of 20% off or buy-one-get-one promotion before buying more.
     
6. Moisturize
   
   • Putting on a lotion that's not going to irritate your skin post-shave helps me a lot. I like the Nivea Sensitive Post-Shave Balm or the basic St. Ives Moisturizing Lotion

So about a year or two ago I began experiencing similar problems. One day it was so bad that on a whim in a drug store I purchased a little blue tub of Nivea Creme. It was cheap, but I figured I'd give it a try as I've liked some of their other products, especially their post shave balm which helped with razor burn and bumps.

Now I had never used moisturizers or anything on my face before. I would just wash it with a face wash when I showered and went to bed. But a friend of mine was working at Vogue or GQ and got my gf a couple of free samples of this stuff called Crème de la Mer. She absolutely swore by and I could definitely see the improvement in her skin. But as you can see here, at nearly $200 per ounce it's not cheap. But I got curious as to what made it so effective beyond hte marketing hype.

This led me to looking into the ingredients, and what do you know? That tub of Nivea Creme I bought almost has the matches. In fact, numerous other people have written about them and most say their performance is essentially the same. So unless your name is Daddy Warbucks and you don't mind spending 40 times the amount for what is at best a negligible difference, go with the Nivea Creme.

I recommend using it after you wash in the evening, and just leave it on nice and thick overnight. Then in the morning, rub some on your face before after washing again, but really rub it in this time. Within about 24-48 hours you will be as good as new, if not better.

https://www.amazon.com/NIVEA-Sensitive-Post-Shave-Balm/dp/B0014E2Q8K

tip: if you don't like the shine on top, you can use women's "makeup primer" to hide the shine. It's basically an invisible lotion with ingredients that mattify (un-shine) the skin and control oil.

A lot of men's skincare lines are selling primer as "shave balm" and other skincare products to control shine.

Honestly, I always had issues with my scalp being dry and itchy...until I completely shaved my head. Not sure what was causing it but it went away instantly with all of my hair being gone.. Not sure how much hair is left with a zero, but I'd try shaving it and see what happens. I do use this Nivea aftershave

To prevent irritation you probably will want to have an alum block/stick and some Nivea for Men Sensitive After Shave Extra Soothing Balm. Make sure you have good prep also by making sure your beard is well hydrated. You might want to try a pre-shave oil to provide some extra protection.

A good electric razor may be a solution for you. I've used this Phillips model for going on two years now (both before and after starting laser btw) and it is amazing. There's a bit of a learning curve, but once you get used to it, you won't have near as bad of issues with the neck. Also, if you don't like wasting money, buy it on eBay instead of Amazon.

Other things I use to get the best shave possible -

Shave Secret -not sure why Wal-Mart beats Amazon here, but they do

Nivea After Shave - I apply this over the Shave Secret oil and my Norelco glides over my face no problems.

Bump Stopper 2 - also a blessing, use as directed, after applying after shave, and after makeup removal before bed. I find it barely use it for a couple weeks after a laser session, but I was using it every day before starting laser treatments and now use it during the last two-ish weeks between sessions.

This is the regimen I've had in place for a good while, as the hair on my neck grows in 217 different directions and using a multi-blade or a safety razor always jacked my neck UP. Best of luck!

I'll add to this, especially for the Afro-Americans out there.

 

Shavers...

 

After all of the cordless electric shavers I've used over the years, my Remington F5-5800 Foil Shaver gives me the smoothness shave I've ever had without using an actual razor. I finish off by edging up and trimming with a [Philips Norelco G370] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FED5DU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_F702AbWT46ATE) (it was <$100 and it's probably outdated by now) I've used it for ~4-7 years and dropped it a few times. It leaves the skin a bit rough, though, but I've rarely ever nicked myself with it (if at all).

 

Instructions & Maintenance...

 

Read the instructions and follow proper maintenance (brush, clean, oil, etc.). Always.
And for the record, both of my shavers are easy to clean. The Remington requires more effort, especially once a month, but the Phillips only requires a quick brushing (I add Andis Clippers Clipper Oil). The "hardest" part is letting the Remington dry for so long before putting the head back on. Don't brush the clippers while it's on, btw. Seriously, you'll ruin the brush and end up needing to replace it.

 

Battery Life...

 

If the instructions say to let the battery die before its first charge, I do so. If it says to fully charge it for X hours before its first use, I do so. Now, people of Reddit had a particular conversation about battery life once. I never looked into the matter myself, but I started practicing it with all of my chargeable devices. After the initial required drain (if instructed), I always charge it after it hits 30-50%. I do my best to never let it drain completely to 0%. The idea is that the battery will actually degrade much quicker if it drains to 0% and will need to be replaced sooner. Feel free to call me a fool on this one, but please explain your reasoning.

 

Razers & Magic Shave...

 

This one requires a story or warning.
I wet shaved with my brother's razor when I was in high school because my cordless one (probably a Phillips) wouldn't work properly when I put it back together after taking the top apart for a full-ish cleaning for the first and last time (the school started reinforcing its facial hair policy).

Though it was my first time, and I shaved against the grain, I didn't cut myself or apply anything to my skin before or after. My face was so smooth that I kept touching it. Three days later, I start noticing bumps. By the fifth day, I had full on razor bumps everywhere I originally shaved. Bump Stopper II took a month or so to really any progress and around three months to really make an impact, but it left my skin dry and very flaky. Eventually, I moved to Skin Tight Razor Bump Ointment Extra Strength. It burned like hell in the beginning, but showed better progress. That and washing my face daily with soap and a towel of course.

Since I still had to shave, I just went over the bumps with a shaver and routinely wiped the blood away. Due to a barber's suggestion, I started using Bump Fighter Razors. He warned me that they were going to miss some hairs, but it worked well enough.

At some point, I was recommended (powder blue) Magic Shave because it would "eat those bumps up" (oh, boy). This stuff stinks, flakes all over the place, and can tear up your skin if you aren't careful. I tore a descent sized section of my skin off when I dragged a wet towel down my chin at the wrong angle once. I could see the skin sitting intact in the towel with the inner-end of my hairs barely sticking out of it. Was a really weird moment. That section of my face was pink and hairless for awhile before it healed over. Looked funny on my lovely complexion. For the record, I only used it every three or four days. Three is the minimum, IIRC.

If you're going to use Magic Shave, use a wet towel to wipe it off (prepare to rinse repeatedly), designate a magic shave cup that is to be used for nothing else, consider only wearing boxers, bring a broom and dust pan, and stay in one room or outside. Hell, turn the vent on, you stinky mutt. Overall, I do not recommend Magic Shave's original formula (powder blue). I cannot speak for its powder gold fragrant or creme light fresh scent version, though.

Now for razers...
I started using the cheap pack of (dark blue) Gillette dual-blade razers from Walmart in high school. They worked very well. Here are my instructions: Shave with the grain, rinse the blades after every stroke, thoroughly rinse the blades after you're done, wipe them carefully with a toilet paper to get extra crud off, and let air dry somewhere. Hell, thanks to another Reddit conversation, I kept a short round plastic container of isopropyl alcohol around in college to "shake" the razer in as a finishing touch of cleanliness. Supposedly, the alcohol evaporates after awhile, so I just let it air dry after that (read the 4/24/18 edit at the bottom). The blades lasted a pretty long time doing all of this before I need to pull out a new razor. That combined with how cheap they were...

 

Razer Bumps / Ingrown Hairs...

 

I found that daily shaving, Skin Tight creme, and actually washing or just wiping my face with a clean damp paper towel kept the bumps from fully returning. A trick I discovered to get rid of the ones that lingered was to grow my facial hair out. It looked awful for a month since the bumps returned as the hair grew (they might have been curling into the skin), but there's a point where the bumps start to recede into the skin and all you have is a full beard (minus some areas of the lower neck). Now just maintain it or shave it off. What you'll find is a smooth face with practically no bumps. You must keep the hairs from growing back, though (and maybe wash your face?). Mess that up, and the lingering bumps will return.

Oh, to hell with Bump Stopper II and don't bother with Skin Tight. My physician recommended Tend Skin Solution after I graduated college, and, let me tell you, it works better than both. I hear the ingredients aren't that bad for your health either.

 

My Routine...

 

I wash my hair (including facial) with Bubble & Bee's hard water shampoo (the price is worth it, especially since it lasts for a surprisingly long time), pour on and rub in their vinegar rinse ratio (a fourth of the bottle tops; it's optional when you purchase the shampoo), wash that out, apply Nature's Way Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil to my facial and scalp hair while still damp/wet (I'm not 100% certain about using it on the scalp yet; used to use AVEDA Dry Remedy Daily Moisturizing Oil twice or thrice a week), brush my facial hair (soft bristles for the cheeks and neck; medium bristles for the beard and moustache) once in the morning, and apply Tend Skin Solution twice a day with cotton balls.

I should be using the foil shaver daily, but I don't always. Hence why I brush my cheeks and neck.

 

In closing...

 

If you're close to (or cool with) any Afro-American males, especially ones who've just started growing facial hair, consider having them read this so they can learn from my mistakes. Those razor bumps were rather unsightly.

 

tl;dr: Use Tend Skin Solution for razor bumps, wash your face, follow instructions, foil shavers leave smoother skin, read the section on battery life, don't shave against the grain with a razor, and don't use magic shave or bump stopper II.

 

EDIT (4/24/18):
About my shaving cleanup steps. I later realized that letting the isopropyl alcohol dry on the razer caused the blades to dull quicker, so I started rinsing them off and wiping them with toilet paper a second time as the final step.

This stuff is good

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tend-Skin-Ingrown-Hair-Solution/dp/B001ECQ7G4

Also if your getting ingrown hairs from shaving with a razor try using a cream like this

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magic-Smooth-Razorless-Hair-Removing-Cream/dp/B000TG63XS/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=drugstore&ie=UTF8&qid=1472742792&sr=1-2&keywords=soft+sheen+carson

I'd wait like 5 days before his return, especially if it's your first one. Also I have some ingrown hair issues sometimes, and I use this stuff a few days before my wax and then for about a week after, and it's a miracle. No redness, no ingrowns, no bumps. You can get it on the US Amazon site also.

This stuff works amazing for razor burn. (Tend Skin -- link at bottom) I also get bad bumps esp at bikini. I ended up doing laser treatment. It eventually did sorta grow back but I no longer have problems with razor burn there. Before that I did waxing which still caused some problems sometimes, but not anywhere as bad as shaving.

https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4

Do you do a physical or chemical exfoliant? I've had more success with a chemical one. I exfoliated with a mitt daily but still had issues with bumps. Started using this and it's gotten rid of ingrown hairs and bumps.

Oil also dissolves oil so you may try coconut/castor oil or a lotion on your legs as well if you want to try things you have at home before buying a new product

http://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4

Before switching to a DE (thanks to lurking around this sub and reading everyone's tips and trick and success stories), I had a similar issue. I used tendskin. It's pricey but it helped significantly more than a dermatologist did. There's some home made tendskin recipes floating around if you search them but I can't vouch for any of them myself.

edit: cold water shaving helped me as well.

I used to have this problem when I first started shaving my legs. I found that a very warm bath first and using a new razor like the Gillette fusion helped a lot. Also using Tend Skin helps.

http://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4

I found the one that I was considering but $20 for 8 oz had originally deterred me. After the ingrown hair epic I think it may have been $20 well spent if the product works. The product is Tend Skin which has great reviews. The active ingredients are: Isopropyl Alcohol, Water, Propylene Glycol, Acetylsalicylic Acid, Cyclomethicone, Glycerin

This stuff is pricey, but it works great. I think I found it based upon a previous post on Reddit and then read the reviews on Amazon. Seriously, give it a try.

https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4

I've been trying to get rid of ingrown hairs myself but this is what I've read so far:

• 1- exfoliate the area with BHA. Everyone recommends Stridex (red box) for this
  
• 2- I've heard that Gold Bond Rough & Bumpy can help with ingrown hairs. It's targeted for bumpy skin and it contains salicylic acid, among some other ingredients I don't remember.
  
• 3- I haven't looked into this product, but it's supposed to be amazing for ingrown hairs. It's called Tend Skin The Skin Care Solution For Unsightly Razor Bumps. I just started using Stridex & the Gold Bond cream for my ingrown hairs (on my legs), but if they don't work out, I'll be purchasing this product.

Have you mapped your beard growth direction? Try to avoid shaving against the grain.

If you are not shaving against the grain. And you are using DE. And you are using salicylic acid. Then maybe shaving just isn't doable for you. Have you noticed any reduction in ingrown hairs/razor bumps since you started using DE and salicylic acid?

I would suggest the following to reset the situation. Let your beard grow and use electric clippers to keep it really short. Don't shave. Also continue to use salicylic acid. Do this for a month or two. It should solve the issue.

After you no longer have ingrown hairs/razor bumps, try shaving with the DE razor again. If they come back then you kind of have to accept defeat and stick to the electric clippers and chemical exfoliation with salicylic acid.

Maybe also give Tend Skin a try. It's somewhat expensive but seems to work for a lot of people.

The salon you go to should have specific products to exfoliate. However, the one I've had recommended to me the most is Tend Skin it works really well at preventing ingrown hairs.

When you wax, the hair grows slower and usually have a fine tip as opposed to shaving where the tip is blunt. This makes it hard for the hair to pierce the skin and sometimes will curl on itself hence the ingrown hair.

The waxer didn’t do anything wrong, you need to do some prep before waxing. Exfoliate the night before and moisturize well. Then the next day, wash that area gently but don’t moisturize. After waxing, moisturize. You need to exfoliate more than usual to allow the new hair to come out.
Keeping up with the waxing will make the hair weeker and you will get less ingrown hairs.

If that happens, Tend Skin is a good solution.
Don’t use Adaplene on the bumps.

Bevel is remarkable. I'm a white 20-something but am extremely prone to bumps and irritation. Came across this and haven't looked back. Also, check out Tend Skin. A half-dollar sized amount on a microfiber cloth, pat your neck with it, and never worry again about bumps or, more importantly, ingrown hair.

this stuff works amazingly: https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4

Based on your comment, you may be interested in this!
**
^^I'm ^^usually ^^comically ^^wrong, ^^but ^^I'm ^^still ^^learning ^^so ^^please ^^bear ^^with ^^me ^^- ^^Product ^^Helper ^^Bot ^^v0.5*

Literally drop everything you’re doing rn and buy some Tend Skin. It burns so good. And works so fast.

Tend Skin The Skin Care Solution For Unsightly Razor Bumps, Ingrown Hair And Razor Burns, 8 Fl. Oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ECQ7G4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_VJ-MDbQP3TDC4

Then if you wanna get really into it, make sure to exfoliate the area every day. If you’re shaving often I would use an anti-bump scrub like this one:

GiGi No Bump Body Scrub With Salicylic Acid for Ingrown Hair & Razor Burns https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001DYJJQS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_aN-MDb4GTV8XM

When you use the scrub on the area make sure to start using it 1-2 days before shaving/waxing and then wait 24 hours (or until the next day) to start using it again. It’s very important that you use the scrub often to exfoliate as your hair starts to grow back. This removes the dead skin cells that hairs can get trapped under and lifts the hairs to promote them growing outward and not inward, causing those painful bumps. To really get the job done, try applying the scrub with an exfoliating mitt like this one:

Skinerals Scrubbing Exfoliator Mitt - Exfoliating Gloves To prep and exfoliate skin for self tanner sunless tanning (Exfoliator Mitt) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XNVKRMP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_bS-MDbNCC2Y5P

After shaving or waxing, apply some finipil to the area for the first few days as the skin is still raw and prone to infection. This will not only fight against infection and ingrowns but will have a really soothing and cooling effect on the skin. Pricey but worth it:

finipil Lait 50,1.5 fl oz, 44 ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C4YJL96/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_bT-MDbDVD2PJ8

Do all these things and you should be good. Remember: our skin isn’t meant to be removed in the first place. It won’t simply play nice just because you want it to. You’re going to get ingrowns and bumps and dark spots sometimes no matter how hard you try so you just have to accept that you’re human and be okay with it. But I definitely believe you can manage ingrowns greatly by committing to a regimen.

After lots of experimentation, I use Aveeno shave gel and Venus razors, which have kept the discomfort lowest for me. I shave like every 3 days and use Tend Skin on the ingrown hairs.

Shaving itself: turn on the bath, douse legs with hot water, apply shaving cream, and shave. If it's been a while, I'll pre-trim with a trimmer. Afterwards I use Dove men's aftershave cream.

Any recommendations?

Laser hair removal only works on some hair. If you TRULY want it to go away forever you have to do Electrolysis. That's how transwomen get rid of their beards most often.

I did electrolysis and it helped a lot. But I ran out of money for it, now i shave what is left (it's only on my neck under my chin) with a razor w/ lots of blades and a nice shave butter THEN use this: Tend Skin The Skin Care Solution For Unsightly Razor Bumps, Ingrown Hair And Razor Burns, 8-Ounce Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ECQ7G4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_wY0Hzb3KNFFGN

hokay:

1 - i use the norelco bodygroom too, so my advise is to just go slowly (if you go too fast it might "pluck" some hairs and hurt a lot)... i use the foil to shave my entire neck to crotch (i stop at my pubic area - kind of where the legs meet the crotch), i dare not use it in the sensitive areas, i tried once and it hurt.... so i take all off, i dont leave a happy trail

2 - you can use the trimmer guard part of the bodygroom to buzz down your pubes area, i have a conair istubble that i use for that though, i use it on 0.4mm setting for pubes and armpits ... but since you dont have that just use bodygroom on lowest setting to trim that (i like to trim armpits too)

3 - i use my bodygroom on legs as well with the trimmer guard part, do whatever you feel comfortable with , i do not use it on lowest, i think around 1/2 way on it, just to make it look nice and uniform

suggestions:

4 - pluck eyebrows/unibrows?

5 - as far as pubic area / balls i use a regular disposable head razor (schick 5 blade) to shave it slowly.

6 - get Tend Skin (http://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4) to apply afterwards for a few days (morning and night) on any place you shave down to skin (chest/stomache/crotch area) - it really helps to cut down on razor burn and ingrowns coming in - the 4oz lasts a long time.

any questions just ask

If you shave or wax your chest, or other non-facial areas, without exfoliating, you're gonna have a bad time. Also, use Tend Skin after exfoliating in the shower, up to once a day.

>2)When shaving i get these red "bumps" on my face ( i use a gillete). Is that normal and what can i do to minimize that, 'cause it hurts quite a bit the day after.

I hope I am not too late for this to get attention, but there absolutely is a cure for this which I have never heard of failing..It's a product called Tendskin. You can usually (only?) find it in the "African-American" section of drugstores. One bottle lasts forever. Just put a little on a cotton swab or piece of toilet paper and apply a few times a day. The bumps (razor-burn) will be gone in 2-3 days max. Then just use it after you shave and you will never see those bastards again.

Tendskin. Tendskin. Tendskin.

Tend Skin, use it after you shave. No ingrown, no irritation.
http://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451234700&sr=8-1&keywords=tend+skin+16oz

Hey yo! Fellow Canadian here, fellow ingrown hair sufferer (although not fellow female with PCOS... I'm a dude). I had lots of terrible annoying ingrowns on my neck whenever I shaved, and I literally found the miracle product for getting rid of them. It's called Tend Skin. That's the Amazon link, although I found it at Shoppers Drug Mart for substantially cheaper I think.

I put it on my neck twice a day and the ingrown hairs were gone in 3 days max. I don't shave often, but I've found I can even prevent them from occurring in the first place if I put it on a couple of times before shaving. It's got alcohol in it, so if you're sensitive to that I would avoid it, but otherwise go for it! Good luck.

I get super painful bumps as well, and a friend recommended I try TendSkin. It helped a lot and I now rarely ever get bumps. It's a bit pricey, but it lasts a while and honestly, worth the price.
That combined with the advice given in this thread as well, of course.

Do you have a really close hair cut? If so Tend Skin. Google for home made versions to save some money.

Always use a sharp razor, shaving gel instead of soap, and after you dry off, use Tend Skin (which you can get at Sephora in the US and Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada) or another aftershave type solution (although I personally love TS).

Edit: I should clarify that Tend Skin doesn't prevent stubble, but it helps get rid of red bumps and ingrown hairs and stuff. Also, this might sound dumb, but... can you tan your armpits? Either in the sun or with fake tanner (I use this one)? If your skin isn't so pale there, it might hide the "stubble" a little better.

So, I use "Tend Skin The Skin Care Solution". From Amazon. It is the only thing that works for me, it is basically an anti-inflammatory (aspirin) suspended in alcohol. It is pretty expensive so i think I will try to make it myself. It works though.

Edit: I put it on 5 mins before my shave and immediately after.

Second edit: See here to make your own: http://thelimericklane.com/2012/03/homemade-tend-skin-recipe/

I use this one for aftershave then moisturizer from Cetaphil

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001ECQ7G4/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmr1_1?qid=1405968384&sr=8-1-fkmr1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70

Tend Skin is a game changer! Completely got rid of my shaving bumps!

Try this https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001ECQ7G4?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

It is a little pricey but works well for me. Another options is Witch Hazel.

Stay hydrated. Drink lot's of water, obviously keep moisturizing, try using a body shaver for chest and shoulders. If using a razor shave with the grain and not against the grain. It is a struggle but I have been trying new things. These worked for me plus exfoliating every 3 to 4 days.

You should probably take a cotton ball or just use your hands to slap on some Tend Skin for that itching and the bumps. Works for me. It's going to burn a little bit as expected since it's alcohol, but it's kinda like a GOOD fast very light burn that doesn't last, and then after that it feels really smooth. People use that on their face or their body wherever.

Or yeah, you could try waxing. But waxing is still going to cause ingrown hairs and itching on some people, so it's a bit unavoidable. I think the skin really just needs some aftercare similar to the one I just described.

Tend Skin or crushed aspirin with water first, like immediately. (Google diy tend skin, could do something fancy that will last longer but also just a one off solution with just water)

Then benzoyl peroxide (acne medication) or yup what you described

No problem :)

No, I just splash cold water after and then I shower. A little of this stuff after. But YMMV, of course.

Look no further than this for post shave with little scent

Definitely much better than before! You don't look as messy right now. Make sure to use enough styling product in your hair - not so that you can get rid of the curls, but so you can reduce the frizz and make the curls that you still have more defined.

The cut you had here is really cute as well, so you can still have longer curls if you want, as long as you make sure the cut is still short on the sides and your curls are well-defined (which I know takes work). Do not brush or comb your hair when it's dry (whatever cut you have), unless you're about to wash it. Curly hair frizzes like crazy if you do that. Use gel in wet hair to get nicely defined curls, and re-wet your hair every morning to style it. If you need hair help in future, /r/curlyhair is where you need to go.

I really like the clean-shaven look, it suits you well! It looks like you're getting some razor burn / irritation though, so I'd look into that. Make sure to shave with a sharp blade, use enough shaving cream (or substitute) so the razor glides over your skin easily, and use an after-shave balm without alcohol, like this one.

I go back and forth between using a primer and not, but I always use setting powder.

For reference, my skin type is Dehydrated/Combo leaning a little more towards oily. I use Skin79 Green BB Creme, Nivea After Shave Balm For Men (Non-AB) as a Primer, and Coty Air Spun Original (Non-AB) as a setting powder.

I have a desk job where I don't do much and generally wear lighter makeup, so usually I'll skip my primer. However, if I'm going out or planning to wear heavy makeup, I always do a primer, setting spray, and setting spray (just in case because of how oily my skin can get).

I'm planning on ditching my primer eventually and looking into Innisfree No Sebum Powder as my setting powder because of how highly recommended it is for oily people! I'll be eyeing this thread for primer recommendations :)

I suggest at least getting a setting powder and seeing if that does the trick. If not, try finding a primer that works for your skin and see if that help. If that doesn't work, add a setting spray and hopefully that should do the trick!

Added this aftershave to cart. Still no idea about soap/brush

NIVEA FOR MEN Sensitive Post Shave Balm 3.30 oz (Pack of 4) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001FB5IGE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_tisKDbAS992D2

I have used this for a while
It's a little greasy perhaps and you don't want too much or it'll never rub in nicely but used in small amounts it does a good job and definitely leaves my skin feeling much nicer post shave than if I use nothing.
I've just made the move to a DE & as part of that I have ordered a new Edwin Jagger aftershave balm I'll report back once I've had a week to test it out.

You can buy a 4 pack of the balm for the same price as at wal-mart.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001FB5IGE/ref=od_aui_detailpages01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It is a rather mild after-shave that won't make a statement and is only there to help soothe and moisturize the skin.

Looking at that styptic pencil, you are paying for the packaging, as most pencils I've seen are just like loose candles.

I dont think Maggards carries it, but L'Occitane Cade after shave lotion is quite possibly the most magical substance you can put on your face.
http://www.amazon.com/LOccitane-CADE-After-Shave-Balm-Men/dp/B001G60EGW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1409840200&sr=8-2&keywords=l%27occitane+shave
There is no high enough praise for how good this stuff is.

I found a product called "Tend Skin" that works very well for me.
Aftershave never worked well in my experience, but Tend Skin is a silver bullet, just roll it on your face after a shave. Haven't had any irritation since I started using it about 2 years ago (I shave every 2-3 days)

This has worked wonders for me!

I have a hot shower before, thoroughly towel-dry, then use baby powder to make sure the area I want to epilate is totally dry.

I use this product after, which works really well for reducing redness - stings for a second when you put it on, but feels much better after a few hours than my skin does if I don't use it. There are lots of similar products if you look for post-waxing/post-epilating balms.

I don't have another shower after epilating if I've had one before, so...no opinion on that one, I'm afraid!

I don't find it too painful on my legs - it feels annoyingly itchy to me (while I'm doing it). Armpits are quite painful but over quickly. Bikini area hurts quite badly. The more you epilate a specific area on a regular basis, the less it hurts. If I skip a couple of months then it hurts a lot more when I start again!

1. Pre-shave oil.
   
2. Stick your neck straight out like a weird ass bird while you shave there to make it as flat as possible
   
3. Some sort of post-shave balm shit (I use The Cool Fix and it works great.)

I’m a big fan of Shaveworks Cool Fix. It’s like an astringent lotion.

https://www.amazon.com/Shaveworks-Cool-Fix-5-3-oz/dp/B002UVU7HS/ref=zg_bs_13271113011_45?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=Y1TK6T0PXRZ8GT4304Q9

Should NOT pick at it. Let it heal.

I found this works for me, but ymmv: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002UVU7HS

If you have a local Sephora, they would probably hook you up with a sample.

Neutrogena Triple Protect. According to my plugin the .co.uk version is currently cheaper, but it's unclear if that's a 2-pack (which it is in the .fr version)

Most of the negative reviews are because it's greasy, yet that's a consequence of it having avobenzone which is what makes it work against UVA.

This one works great for me.

Gold Bond Men's Everyday Essentials Lotion

http://www.amazon.com/Gold-Bond-Everyday-Essentials-Lotion/dp/B00AHH00MO/ref=sr_1_36?ie=UTF8&qid=1412259914&sr=8-36&keywords=face+moisturizer+for+men

Here's another I use.

http://www.amazon.com/Neutrogena-Triple-Protect-Lotion-Ounce/dp/B003NSPOF2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1412259880&sr=8-4&keywords=face+moisturizer+for+men

I purchased mine locally.

exactly what i'm looking for thanks.

Edit : http://www.amazon.com/Bump-Patrol-Treatment-Original-Formula/dp/B003XCP9M6 this one?

I am horrible at this! And I always get razor burn. I use this thing called an Alum Block. It's been the best thing.

You can find them in online shave shops (for example, here or here) or just on Amazon, which is where I got mine.

When you're done shaving and rinse off any hair / shaving cream, simply wash off with cold water and wet the block then wipe down shaved area with it. You can also use it just on nicks, by wetting the block and wiping the cut with it (for bigger cuts, there's also Styptic pens).

It's an astringant and has antibacterial properties - you can also see some sciency bits in this discussion.

I see, thank you i'll be sure to switch up my pre-shave. (Here's what I was talking about for reference)
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Osma-Bloc-Soothes-Shaving-Irritation/dp/B004NEHR28

Is there realy nothing else I can do about it?

http://www.amazon.com/Bloc-Osma-Alum-Block-Ounce/dp/B004NEHR28

Cheap, only downside is slippery when wet and break easily if dropped, you're warned.

You can negate a lot of this damage by using an alum block, too.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Osma-Bloc-Soothes-Shaving-Irritation/dp/B004NEHR28

You apply this after shaving - I like to wet my brush and then cover my face with some water and just rub it all over, especially around my neck where I get the most irritation. It's a coagulant for bleeding and also helps take down irritation on your neck afterwards.

I too have sensitive skin and using this eradicated the issue. Best of luck!

As a guy I use an Alum Bloc for shaving, it is used as an antiseptic for after shaving. However it can be applied to acne as well to kill bacteria.

One of these - Osma Bloc - Alum Block 75g (Soothes Shaving Irritation) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B004NEHR28/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_C0h0xb6S33D2B. Lasts a long time, helps seal shaving cuts, hurts like a mother when using it, but is magical!

Side note - Pitrok sell a natural deodorant which is just an alum block. You need to use it whilst still wet from a shower etc, and when it works is amazing. Unfortunately it fails quite regularly, so I now use their spray - a very natural deodorant without various 'harmful' additives, and the best I have ever had!

rub this stuff under your pits after shower. SOURCE: fellow midwest profuse sweater.

also; just a PSA: sweat is a good sign of health and proper hydration. contrary to the old timey thought process of 'never let em' see you sweat' BUT you know. being macho trumps health anyday.

Amazon is your friend if you live in the UK.

• Alum block - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Osma-Bloc-Soothes-Shaving-Irritation/dp/B004NEHR28/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419988493&sr=8-1&keywords=alum+block
  (kind of a must for beginners)
  
  
• Razor - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Edwin-Jagger-DE89L-Detail-Chrome/dp/B005GO38ZY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419988543&sr=8-1&keywords=edwin+jagger
  
• Brush - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Omega-48-Professional-Bristle-Shaving/dp/B001MP4A1M/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1419988606&sr=8-3&keywords=omega+brush
  
• Soap - I'd say arko or prosaro if you don't like the idea of using a stick. Both easy to find on amazon.
  
  One issue I came across when I was first starting out was that I couldn't find a blade sampler pack for the life of me. Just bought packs of 5 of every type of blade I could find and eventually settled on astras.

This is the one I got! I just got the cheapest one I saw on amazon and it works great. You can buy them from zero waste shops online too tho

You can use an alum bar and some water to kill bacteria as well. Doesn’t sting as much as alcohol and it’s easy to pack in.


Bloc Osma Alum Block, 2.65 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004NEHR28/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_xW-JDbDQS21Q1

Walgreens usually has them in the shaving goods section. I prefer the alum blocks though. I ordered mine from Amazon :

http://www.amazon.com/Bloc-Osma-Alum-Block-Ounce/dp/B004NEHR28

I had this exact thing until I bought a Bloc D'Alum (Osma Bloc) from Amazon. You wet it, then rub it over your face or neck as a last step, I have not had a single in-grown hair or spot since I started using it, and mine was just like yours ever since I was 16...

EDIT: It's an astringent, which basically shuts all your pores up to stop them getting irritated/infected.

You can, but it'll probably sting a bit more than potassium alum.

Certainly viable, it's up to you if saving 73p/an extra 25g compared to e.g. this is worth it.

/r/wicked_edge for alot of info but I just started shaving alone at 31! I started with a Shavette too so pretty hard. But my ritual works like a charm.

1. Take a hot shower.
   
2. when you are done. come out and wash your face with some Glycerene soap . Any some with the same contents works. I leave it for around 1 mins. Then apply shaving cream lather on top of it.
   
3. Time to make some lather! use a brush it helps moisturizing and massaging the lather into your beard and pores. Two types of Brushes:
   
   

• Synthetic hair brush. option one. Good option 2 cheaper Just keep in mind if you go synthetic then buy shaving creap and not soap.
  
• Boar/Badger - You will need to pay up here. I went Silvertip Badger which is the finest but with the cheapest brush. This has a whole different prep so PM if you wanna shell out a few extra bucks but live in bliss. keep in mind that Synthetic is just as good.
  
  
• Buy a shaving bowl or any soap bowl will do, take your brush into the soap/cream. For soaps creams buy something with Glycerine1 My favorite scent is this one 2. See this video to make lather
  
  

4. Shave. With the grain or across as a beginner. A good Double edge safety razor to start with some blades very sharp so careful
   
   
5. When you are done splash your face with some cold water onceor twice. Use an alum block around your face. If it burns alot it means you were too rough on that area. After that a splash of with hazel.
   
   
6. Wait a few mins and use some nivea sensitive after shave balm
   
   Remember always pat your face with the towel to dry. Dont rub.
   
   Tips on how to shave with a DE are plentiful on youtube.
   
   Enjoy. Feel like a Boss.

I'm sure you'll get a bunch of pms linking you ti Wicked edge, but let me drop my two cents.

Instead of using a stick of antiperspirant, buy yourself a block of Alum. The chemical compound in Alum is the same in antiperspirant that makes you stop sweating. HOWEVER, in Alum the crystalline structure is bigger(it's the whole block), and therefor doesn't lead to any of those cancer causing concerns from the Aluminum chlorohydrate.

Wiki for Alum

http://www.amazon.com/Bloc-Osma-Alum-Block-Ounce/dp/B004NEHR28
It's really a bang for your buck.

Isn't that the razor? Here I'll just link you to everything I bought.

Edwin Jagger De89lbl Double Edge Safety Razor Chrome Plated Lined Detail, Chrome

Van Der Hagen Men's Luxury, Shave Set

Bloc Osma Alum Block, 2.65 Ounce


Sampler Pack

http://www.amazon.com/Alum-Block-Osma-Pack-Value/dp/B004QVCIKE/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1411233227&sr=8-6&keywords=alum+deodorant

http://www.amazon.com/Utopia-Care-Straight-Barber-Razor/dp/B00N5HD340/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1415933885&sr=8-6&keywords=shavette



I love this stuff:
http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Irritation-Pre-shaving-Cream-Oatmeal/dp/B003VS5O3Q/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1415933935&sr=8-2&keywords=prorazo+preshave



With soap:
http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-New-Shaving-Soap-Sandalwood/dp/B00FF77IQC/ref=sr_1_6?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1415933962&sr=1-6&keywords=proraso




This is your 30 mark, but you need some form of post shave:





... $10 for 2
http://www.amazon.com/Alum-Block-Osma-Pack-Value/dp/B004QVCIKE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1415934080&sr=8-3&keywords=alum+block

1. Make sure you shave with the grain. I shaved against the grain on my neck for eons (stopped about a year ago, I'm 33) and it was a god-send. You don't get as close of a shave and have to shave far more often but the razor burn/bumps go away quickly.
   
   
2. If you already shave with the grain, buy and use an alum block. It's superior to any post-shave product out there. Lotions, oils, balms, etc - all junk. I had never heard of alum blocks until my barber put me on to them a couple of years ago. I'm currently using this from Amazon.
   
3. Make sure you are using a sharp/new blade. Always dry your razor thoroughly after you use it to prolong its life and sharpness.

yo uso Alumbre potasico es lo mejor

I’ve used PFB Vanish in the past to help with this. You can get it off of amazon here

I’ve also read good reviews on Tend Skin but have never personally used it.

It's $25, and you can get it cheaper on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/PFB-Vanish-Chromabright-93-grams/dp/B005GXQ02I

I am all about PFB Vanish!

I started using it after I got electrolysis on my face and it was the only thing that kept me from getting horrible red bumps after each electrolysis treatment! Since then I've used it after shaving, waxing, and laser hair removal, and can definitely say it's my HG post-hair removal product.

edit: also, it's best to dispense product onto a cotton ball instead of using the roller ball to make sure the product doesn't get contaminated

I fucking hate ingrown hairs! I get them on my bikini line. I recently started using this product

https://www.amazon.ca/PFB-Vanish-Chromabright-Ingrown-Lightening/dp/B005GXQ02I

It takes awhile to work but it basically kills the top layer of your skin as to let the hairs come loose. Can't comment on long term improvement.

THANK YOU! My electrologist told me to try this product. Any experience using this? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005GXQ02I/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Obviously take everyone's advice and look into any health issues that could be causing this, after that though I'd look into PFB Vanish. I use it for ingrown hair treatment but it's also used as a skin brightener to remove dark spots.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005GXQ02I/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it

Yeah it's gonna be fun. I'm broke but it'll be fun.

I'm a little nervous about my aftershave though. I've never used aftershave before and this is not an alcohol based aftershave. It's more of an eucalyptus lotion to cool the skin.

The point of this whole thing was to reduce razor burn and ingrown hairs, I only hope I don't need alcohol to kill germs in order to achieve that.

The feather razors were so cheap however that I only plan on using a blade once before discarding them so the risk of germs is greatly lowered there. Hopefully it'll work.

Not sure if this has been mentioned yet, but I was just looking at the ingredients in my aftershave while I was brushing my teeth, and I realized it might actually fit the bill. It smells great.

Do you mean this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0085UECY2/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1518380106&sr=8-3&keywords=proraso+aftershave&dpPl=1&dpID=515HCSWuMxL&ref=plSrch

Or this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00KSD82AE/ref=mp_s_a_1_6_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1518380169&sr=8-6&keywords=proraso+aftershave&dpPl=1&dpID=51pv9lydPUL&ref=plSrch

In addition to the alum block, I've been using Proraso stuff so far; I have the green "splash" aftershave, and the white "creme" aftershave. The green one tightens up nicely, but I think my skin is a bit too dry for a splash like that. I'm very fond of this white stuff though. It's very soothing after a rough shave.

Not sure about cheaper alternatives... I'll have to do some testing once I finish off the white stuff.

The Proraso sensitive skin is quite good https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B008654MNM/ref=pd_aw_sbs_121_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=1M3AJYN09KEFBKE39T73

http://www.amazon.com/Aveeno-Fragrance-After-Shave-Lotion/dp/B00B6A8K78

Is what I use, great for the skin and completely unscented.

Are you shaving in the direction of your hair growth or against? Always start out shaving DOWN, in the direction of your hair growth. That will take away a lot of the bulk and longer hairs without all the pulling. It’s not recommended to shave against the grain because that usually causes razor burn or ingrown hairs, but I understand some women really want that super smooth feeling. I am prone to a lot of ingrown hairs and I’ve found that an after shave solution really helps with this. There are a number you can choose from but here is my favorite https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Ingrown-underarms/dp/B00BVO6RT2/ref=asc_df_B00BVO6RT2/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312014136879&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14090044144683491231&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011539&hvtargid=pla-349367610403&psc=1

Thanks for all the product recommendations! It probably is kp since nothing is itchy or hurts -- just ugly lol. I'll order some of these products today and hopefully they will clear everything up! Also, what do you think about the product Tend Skin? I recall it being really good for bumps on skin (and has acetylsalicylic acid) and thought it might help alleviate some of the larger red bumps on my legs that might be from any hairs inside some of the bumps

Check out the reviews on this product.... it’s always helped when I got a lot of ingrown hairs.

https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Ingrown-underarms/dp/B00BVO6RT2/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app

I have (had) the same problem. I now swear by Tend Skin, always had red patchy irritation until trying this: Tend skin

My bf has been successful using Tend skin lotion for razor bumps and ingrown hairs, though it can be a bit drying.

If you find that you're still getting red bumps when you do the scrub right before shaving, try doing it on the days you don't shave. Scrubs can make tiny tears in the skin that the razor exacerbates. On the days you do have, you can gently use a loofa to apply a sensitive skin moisturizing shower gel like Aveeno.

Tendskin (https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Ingrown-Hairs/dp/B00BVO6RT2/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1499887285&sr=8-2&keywords=tend+skin) is a little expensive but I've heard it works wonders. There may be a knockoff brand

I got mine on Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-0001-TEND-4OZ-4oz/dp/B00BVO6RT2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1451328284&sr=8-4&keywords=tend+skin

First off, gratz on nailing the shave. Sounds like your technique is getting there. Remember it takes months to get the proper way of doing it all (getting the right amount of water and soap in the brush. the right pressure, angle etc of the blade). I've been doing it for a year this month, and haven't looked back.

Since I didn't see you mention it, the alum block is helpful as well. If you get any cuts or nicks, applying the alum helps to clear it (I had an interview at 9am, shaved at 7am. I nicked myself right above the right lip. I applied the alum block for about 15 seconds and it was gone in no time. Wasn't even there by the time I left the house) That's only part of the astringent property, it also helps seal your pores essentially. It is also an antiseptic (essentially an extra level that the alcohol in the aftershave performs. It stops disease causing bacteria from growing). The thing is cheap, about $8 and it lasts for ages

• Merkur Razor
  
• Derby Exra Super Stainless DE blades
  
• Omega "Pura Setola" Brush? Googled it. Means Pure Boar.
  
• Omega Crema da barba
  
  From what I've seen while looking around here, Omega is made by Proraso which is good, Merkur razors are generally good, and as far as blades go get a sample pack (EDIT: or HERE). I have watched /u/betelgeux's guide on face mapping and what not to do with Irish Spring. I watched a Lathering tutorial by /u/cadinsor.
  
  What I am not sure on is I don't have Alum nor a non-alcoholic aftershave, and some pre-shave stuff such as a good face wash. I have ordered from Amazon:
  
  
• RazoRock Alum
  
• Proraso Pre-Shave
  
• and even a stand to keep my shiny new razor off the counter.
  
  What are some good recommendations for face wash? As well as a decent aftershave, or is the Alum enough?
  
  EDIT: Brush info and blades link.

Big Daddy Strop : $40

Shave Bazaar Straight
or message /u/RVMaster or /u/RocTraitor: $45

Omega Brush: $10

Shave soap: $2 to $40+

Styptic Pencil: $2

Alum Block: $6.00

Mineral oil at the pharmacy aisle: $2

Total price for the basic set up: $100 or so

This is the same thing, but i doubt it will work as well if you have armpit hair.

https://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Jon-Ounce-Block-Plastic/dp/B00FA35K02

This was recommended to me and I enjoy using it. Burns like hell but it works.

What they are saying with a better razor right right, but may be only half the battle. I would suggest /r/wicked_edge

A good DE safety razor will end up being more expensive up front, but cheaper in the long run. You only replace the blade and not the whole razor head, and the blades are cheap. Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/MERKUR-Classic-MK-34C-2-Piece-Double/dp/B002A8JO1Q/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Merkur+34C&qid=1574435969&sr=8-1

And then a blade pack like this: https://www.amazon.com/Excellent-Quality-Razor-Blades-different/dp/B07PH47B8M/ref=sr_1_4?crid=UP0JNWAD75K2&keywords=de+blade+sampler&qid=1574436020&sprefix=de+blade+%2Caps%2C162&sr=8-4

Soaps/creams a lot of people will recommend different things and your mileage will vary, but I think an after-treatment may be more important in your case. Some type of alum after-treatment works as a disinfectant and prevents ingrown hairs. I am guessing your "boils" will be more affected by an alum block than anything. https://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Jon-Ounce-Block-Plastic/dp/B00FA35K02/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=alum+block&qid=1574436153&sr=8-4

excellent, this is what I ordered: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FA35K02/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

HTML doesn't work on reddit.

To link like this, use this method:

[Enter text here](Enter URL here) or just drop in the URL because it auto links.

To add to what everyone else said. Get an alum block. It saved my neck.

<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FA35K02/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00FA35K02&linkCode=as2&tag=bc0cd-20&linkId=4M76CC7AQWZCGBCA">Gentleman Jon 3.5 Ounce Alum Block in Plastic Case</a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=bc0cd-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00FA35K02" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />

it really tightens te pores on my head and makes it much smoother. It also help tghten skin to helps nickd sand such likes s speptic pencil.

Mskrd s decent shave a gret shave and a great shave spectacular.

THis is the one I use and theoreticslly it lasts ayear with proper use

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FA35K02/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

What do you think about this to start? Too much? Missing something?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077JJ9F7B/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=A33A5G6K9BPJRF&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077JJ9F7B/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=A33A5G6K9BPJRF&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KO46CTA/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_3?smid=AOQB6QQXPW2RH&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FA35K02/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_4?smid=AQ4KXK5XZS9ID&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004SGKMA0/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_5?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

I see people mentioned /r/bodyweightfitness start there.

Really you don't like the gym, because you haven't really gone to the gym. i shit you not, if you start on a basic lifting program, strong lifts, or starting strength. it will change your god damn life.

and don't say tone. no one knows what that means.

For deodorant. Why not try it old school with a plain old alum block?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FA35K02/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1?pf_rd_p=1944687642&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B004NEHR28&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1Z9YEH50PXVVFWMJRW11

Ah. well if you don't shave very often, I'd suggest either using a new razor every time or making sure to disinfect the one you are using with 70% isopropyl alcohol.

The red and blotchiness is either a reaction to a shaving cream/aftershave that is too drying?

If your aftershave has alcohol in it, I would ditch it. You would probably like this Nivea Post-Shave Balm

FYI, amazon has the Nivea balm pretty cheap (~$3/bottle after 35% off coupon and subscribe & save). There is also a "cooling" version of it, but I prefer [this one] (https://www.amazon.com/NIVEA-Men-Sensitive-Shave-Fluid/dp/B01539X5TA/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1525117894&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=nivea+sensitive+post+shave+balm&psc=1) (esp if you have sensitive skin).

It doesn't really matter but I'd take one that's meant to toughen up the skin and not just smell nice because then you'll know you're getting the most out of it. I use this one personally. It's cheap, lasts a while (one bottle lasts two-three months, I use it for both my face and pubes) and it's effective.

• Rockwell 6s with Stainless Steel Stand - Go big or go home right? Shaved on 1 setting and as said, no discomfort. Shaving sides and top of the head was easy enough but barely cut anything at all in the back simply because I haven't developed the muscle memory to hold the razor at a proper angle. Hopefully it develops fast enough so I can give disposable razors a kick for good.
  
• Maggard 24mm Synthetic Brush - Really soft brush.
  
• 75 Blade Sample Pack
  
• Cracked/Broken Alum Block - Both blocks I got were perfectly fine except one had something yellow on one side so I chopped it off. Come in their own case.
  
• Barrister and Mann Latha Shaving Soap - I've only had 3 shaves so far and my first soap so can't compare to others and comment on how good of a lather it creates but it does smell really nice. Also developing lathering skills.
  
• Fento Deluxe Razor and Brush Stand - Heavy base so it's not going to tip over or anything.
  
• NIVEA Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm - Probably is the number one post-shave solution in this subreddit and now that I've used, can agree.
  
• NIVEA Smooth Daily Moisture Body Lotion - Does equally as well as the Aveeno lotion I had been using but dries faster and has a nice scent.
  
• 24 Scented Glycerin Soap Bars - So far using the oatmeal scent and it smells better than the lathering soap and lotions. Bathroom smells really good for quite a while after a shower.
  
  That's everything really. Thought I'd link what I bought and why or what I think of it now that I have it.
  

I'm the last person who should give advice on this sub, as I'm currently using Barbasol foam to shave with my DE razor. However, I've sworn by Nivea for years. Everyone has a preference but I've found it soothes skin exceptionally well.

http://smile.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4?sa-no-redirect=1

Expensive, but it works. I like the little roller bottle for application. I had exactly the same thing you do. I shave with an electric razor using lectric shave as a lube, then just apply this afterward. Works like a champ.

Skin Tend!

Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor (MK 23C) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NL0T1G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_O90CzbSJ0E07Y .
.
Proraso Shaving Soap in a Bowl, Sensitive Skin, 5.2 oz (150 ml) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001JHEY14/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Y-0CzbYSCM0MT .
.
Taylor of Old Bond Street Jermyn Street Luxury Shaving Cream for Sensitive Skin, 5.3-Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003VZPTAC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_bb1CzbP65TJRP .
.
100 Astra Superior Premium Platinum Double Edge Safety Razor Blades Personal Healthcare / Health Care https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EXPTR0W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_7b1CzbPDNCYAR .
.
Perfecto 100% Pure Badger Shaving Brush-Black Handle- Engineered for the Best Shave of Your Life. For, Safety Razor, Double Edge Razor, Staight Razor or Shaving Razor, Its the Best Badger Brush. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VF1NI5M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_zd1CzbRXDRTVE .
.
Crown King Victorian/Western Style 12 oz Shaving Scuttle - Durable Porcelain - Hierloom Quality - Dishwasher Safe - Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MTF145J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_9e1Czb0XEH37V .
.
Proraso After Shave Lotion, Refreshing and Toning, 3.4 Fl Oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0085UECY2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4f1Czb32JE3AZ

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002NVBR24/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_.CHQBbJSAMFM9

I would recommend a shavette for your intro to good shaving, as well as a few accessory essentials. This razor is 20$, and the other kit is about 20$, but will be useful for any future shaving experience.

http://smile.amazon.com/Parker-SR1-Stainless-Straight-Razor/dp/B002PQZEHQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420674217&sr=8-1&keywords=parker+sr1

http://smile.amazon.com/Van-Hagen-Premium-Shave-Brush/dp/B001A3HPT0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1420674242&sr=8-2&keywords=shave+set

http://smile.amazon.com/Alum-Block-Osma-Pack-Value/dp/B004QVCIKE/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1420674265&sr=8-4&keywords=alum