A good shave is the result of well-prepared skin. It is wiser to shower before shaving to let steam mollify the skin, open up the pores and soften the hair. The best-organized shavers will be sure to dampen a small cloth and heat it up – using steam for optimal elegance, or a microwave for those most in a hurry – and apply it, hot (but never burning hot!), on the face.
Once warmed, the skin is ready to receive the best of shaving creams, which should be massaged at length on the beard to properly soften its rough and tough hairs. Slowly run a clean razor across the furry areas of the face, rinsing the blade under running warm water after each stroke. With the damp cloth, which should still be slightly warm, carefully remove any residue – or rinse with copious amounts of water, whichever you prefer. It is recommended to finish by running a wet alum stone over the face. Its natural hemostatic and antiseptic action will stop minor bleeding and prevent the onset of blemishes.
Avoid contact with eyes. In case of contact, rinse thoroughly with water.
