Electric shaver with Shaving cream

1. Be prepared

Unless you’re using one of the and dry shavers – which can be used with or without water – you'll get much better results from an electric shaver if your stubble is bone dry and stiff. To make sure it’s free of dirt and sebum (the skin’s natural oil) use an alcohol-based pre-electric shave product. Most are formulated with ingredients like vitamin E, ensuring that your skin is protected and irritation is kept to a minimum.

2. Get the angle right

Hold the shaver at right angles to your face, and use your free hand to pull your skin taught as you shave so the hairs stand upright. This will ensure maximum contact with the skin, reduce shaving time and minimise snagging. Foil shavers work best using just back-and-forth strokes, while rotary shavers should also be used with circular motions.

3. Keep cool

Due to the fact that they’re motorised, most shavers generate a degree of operational heat – bad news for sensitive skin as it can cause irritation. Always tackle the sensitive areas like the neck first while the shaver is still cool. Press lightly and don’t go over the same spot repeatedly.

4. Give it some TLC

Shavers are like cars: they perform better if properly maintained and any worn out parts are replaced. Many now come with their own cleaning systems. If yours does, use it. Not only will it help to deliver a better shave, it will prolong the product life, too. Use the cleaning brush provided to remove any whisker dust from the cutters and foil after each shave but be gentle as these parts are delicate and easily damaged. Never tap the shaver on the edge of the sink to remove residues.

If you’re using a foil shaver, the foil will need replacing every 1–2 years, depending on the toughness of your stubble. Most men neglect to do this, and if you do you’ll end up pressing harder to get a decent shave and irritate the skin in the process. Details of replacement parts come with the manual so make sure you keep it safe.

5. Stick with it

Patience is a virtue with any kind of shaving technique but it’s especially important if you’re a newbie to electric shaving. If you've been using a wet razor all your life and decide to go electric, your skin can take several weeks to adjust to the new shaving technique. Stick with it, even if you experience some mild irritation to begin with.