Note: Rubbing in a hair inhibitor each time after shaving can significantly reduce the rate of hair growth and thus make shaving sessions less frequent.

Click here for information on hair inhibitors and shaving

Avoid shaving when first getting up after sleep as body fluids make the skin puffy making it more difficult to shave the hair. After 20 or 30 minutes the skin becomes more taut so the hair shaft is more exposed making it easier.

Don't stay in the bath too long before shaving. The skin will shrivel after eight minutes or so making it difficult to get a smooth, close shave.

Use preshave products such as soaps, lathers, creams and gels. They lock moisture into the hair, they help keep the hair erect and they reduce friction allowing the blade to glide easily over the skin. Hair conditioner can also be used to soften hair.

The more repeat strokes over an area of skin the greater risk of irritation. To remove stray hairs which are not removed after one or two passes with the razor, use a pop-up trimmer.

Never share your razor or shaver with anyone else to avoid skin infections.

Running the fingertips over the shaved area is a very effective method of ensuring a close thorough shave. The sense of touch will alert you to stubble and missed patches it may be difficult to see in the mirror.

Always wet the hair first for at least 3 minutes. Hair absorbs water which makes it stand up making it easier when shaving. Wet hair also reduces wear on the blade. Shaving after taking a shower is an ideal time.

For a close shave with minimal irritation, try and use an angle of approximately 30 degrees between the blade and the skin.

To lessen the risk of razor burn and extend the life of the blade, allow shaving cream to sit on the skin for 4 minutes before shaving. Thick shaving cream or foam offers the best protection against irritation and cuts.

Use a sharp new blade. If you need to use pressure on the blade it is time to change it. Using a blunt blade can increase the danger of ingrown hair.

Splash the skin with cold water after shaving to help stop any bleeding from small nicks and also remove any traces of soap or lather.

When shaving the leg area use long strokes going against the grain avoiding repeat strokes. Great care needs to be exercised especially around bony areas such as the ankle or knee.

Hair under the arm grows in all directions so a side to side stroke as well as up and down strokes may be necessary to catch all the hairs. Do not apply deodorants or anti-perspirants right after shaving as this can cause acute irritation and soreness.

For the bikini line, shave in the direction of the hair and avoid repeating the strokes to minimize irritation in this very sensitive area.

Shaving Questions Answered:

What are the pros and cons of wet shaving?

PROS: Quick, inexpensive, an especially close shave, refreshing and reinvigorates the skin with use of shaving lotions.

CONS: Stubble reappears quickly, risk of cuts and nicks to the skin, risk of ingrown hair if the blade is not sharp.

What should I look for in choosing a razor?

Some razors such as Schick and Wilkinson-Sword, have comfort or lubricating strips near the cap above the blades. Some contain aloe and are made from water soluble polymer or PVP which allows for a smooth glide over the skin reducing friction.

Twin blades allow for a very close shave and many come with flexible heads allowing the razor to follow the contours of the body.

Look for razors with safety guard wires over the blades to minimize the risk of cuts and nicks and skin irritation.

Blades with a platinum chrome finish maintain their sharpness.

Which is the best direction - with the hair growth or against it?

Shaving in the same direction as the hair growth is the most comfortable. Shaving against the hair growth certainly gives a much closer shave. Many use a combination of both.

Many dermatologists warn however that shaving against the hair growth can cause ingrown hair and irritation and it can make the skin sore and sensitive.

How many times can I use one blade?

This depends greatly on the individual and the thickness or coarseness of the hair. Some prefer to change a blade after using it once or twice, others after 3 or 4 times while many expect between 5 to 7 uses.

The key is to change it regularly and always use a sharp blade. If you feel it dragging on your skin it's time to change it!