Warm water is best for hydrating beard hair. Soaking in warm water softens hair and causes it to expand, making it 70% easier to cut.
If the skin is not properly prepared before shaving or if the blade on your razor is dull, you are more likely to end up with razor burn. Make sure to hydrate hair in warm water for up to three minutes and apply plenty of shave gel. Also, be sure to change the blade on your razor at the first sign of dullness or discomfort.
For both hygiene and performance, it's not a good idea to share your razor with your partner. Women have a much larger area to shave and you may find that after only a few shaves, your blade has dulled considerably, increasing the likelihood of nicks and cuts. Tell her to try a razor specifically designed for the way a woman shaves, such as Gillette® Venus® Embrace®.
Scientists at Gillette have conducted extensive testing on the effects shaving has on both male and female hair growth, texture and color. This testing has proven that shaving does not affect hair growth, color or texture. Shaving does, however, alter the tip shape of the regrown hair, which may initially change the way hair feels as it grows back. But if hair is left to re-grow completely, it will return to its former state.
Men's facial hair tends to grow in different directions. Start by shaving with light, gentle strokes with the grain. Then, if necessary, go against the grain for an even closer shave.
The entire shaving razor is discarded when you are through with a disposable razor. With a refillable razor, only the blade cartridge is replaced. Refillable razors like Gillette® Fusion® ProGlide™ and Gillette Fusion incorporate more advanced blade technology and ergonomics vs. most disposables for great control and a close comfortable shave.
Gillette's research has demonstrated that single blade technology, which has been applied since 1901, is demonstrably inferior to twin blade shaving systems such as SensorExcel®, and even more so to 5-blade systems such as Gillette® Fusion® ProGlide™. But the number of blades alone does not ensure a superior shave. The 5-blade shaving surface of Fusion ProGlide Power™ features progressive blade alignment, patented blade coating process and a flexible comfort guard which collectively provide Gillette's best shave.
The area above the upper lip is tricky for many men. To help avoid nicks and cuts, always leave it for last. Apply plenty of shave gel or shaving cream and allow this area to soak up as much lather as possible. When shaving, don't apply too much pressure. Gillette® Fusion® ProGlide's™ Precision Trimmer is really useful when shaving under the nose.