How to choose a man’s razor

Shaving implements come in a variety of styles, from the safety razor to the disposable, cartridge or electric razor.  Choosing the right one can be a daunting task. To help you out, here are some things to consider when making your selection, along with a few helpful tips for a perfect shave.
 

Types of razors

When choosing a razor, many factors need to be taken into account: your skin type, the time available for shaving, your skill level, the number of blades you prefer and your budget. While the straight razor used by barbers seems to be making a comeback, we will not be discussing it here. Nicknamed the “cut-throat razor,” this implement is definitely not for amateurs or the faint of heart!
 

Manual versus electric shaving

Manual shaving (a.k.a. “wet shaving”) is done using a manual razor (safety, disposable or cartridge, with one or more blades) over wet skin. While more time consuming, this method delivers a closer shave, leaving skin clean and smooth. It also provides longer-lasting results and more precision for trimming around moustaches, circle beards, sideburns and other facial hair styles. On the downside, manual shaving is harder on skin, potentially leading to dryness, irritation, nicks and cuts.  

Electric shaving, as the name suggests, involves the use of an electric razor on dry or wet skin, depending on the shaver used. The method has several advantages, especially if you have sensitive skin: it is easy to master, faster, less irritating and drying for skin and it completely eliminates the risk of nicks and cuts. However, you may need to go over the same places more than once and you will not get the closest of shaves (compared to the manual method). Here again, there are various options available: some electric razors can be used in the shower, others have a built-in shaving cream dispenser and many come with a self-cleaning stand.

Tips from the Pros!
For an easy, flawless shave, here are a few tips:

• Shave in the morning, when skin is firmer
• And after your shower, since this dilates pores and softens whiskers
• Rinse your face with cold water after shaving to tone skin and tighten pores
• To soothe razor burn, apply an aftershave lotion (preferably one without alcohol)

For fans of manual shaving:

• Prep your skin by applying shaving cream in a circular motion
• Shave with the grain if you have sensitive skin or against it for a closer shave (if your skin can handle it)

Changing trends in men’s facial hair

Shaving has significantly evolved in recent years. Beards now come in different shapes and sizes such as the five-o’clock shadow, goatee, moustache, circle beard, soul patch, sideburns to name a few. And that’s not all! These days, men are shaving more than just their faces; they are also trimming and prepping various body parts, including their underarms, chest, back, groin area and, of course, their heads. This explains why electric or battery-operated trimmers are so popular at the moment. They are perfect for detailing, shaving and defining specific zones with great precision. So which look will you be sporting?
 

Pharmacy services

For advice on men’s shaving products suited to your skin type, speak with a Uniprix beauty consultant.