To prepare for a shave, wet your skin and hair to help soften skin. Cleanse your skin and use a facial scrub to help exfoliate and soften your beard. After a shower is a great time to shave as your skin will be freshly cleansed and damp.

Instead of using a dry razor, a wet shave will help you get a closer shave. When your facial hair is wet, it absorbs water into the hair shaft. The more water absorbed the softer the hair becomes and the easier it is to get a closer shave. Use a classic men’s shaving cream formula with a brush or use one of our brushless shave creams for a refreshing, precise shave. Cleansing and exfoliating before shaving also help prepare your skin for an effective shave. Experience a smooth, close and comfortable shave with Kiehl’s shave creams for men.

Even more important than the razor you use is the preparation and technique you use to shave your face. Follow Kiehl’s tips for a close, comfortable shave:

Step 1. Prepare skin: Cleanse and exfoliate with a men’s face wash or scrub to help remove excess dirt and oil and soften facial hair.

Step 2. Smooth on shaving cream: Apply your shaving cream or shaving lotion using an upward circular motion and leave it on for 2-3 minutes to help soften hairs.

Step 3. Go with the grain: Shave with light, gentle strokes in the direction of hair growth. If you still have stubble, carefully go against the grain for a closer shave.

Step 4. Rinse frequently: Rinse your razor blade frequently while shaving to help prevent buildup.

Step 5. Soothe your skin: After shaving, rinse with cool water and let your skin dry before smoothing on a lightweight after shave or other formula to soothe skin and help prevent irritation

Using a shaving brush to apply your shaving cream helps lift the hairs to prepare skin for a comfortable shave. A shaving brush also helps facial hair become more evenly coated with your shaving cream. Look for a classic brush-on shave cream to help prep skin for a close shave.

If you have sensitive skin, look for a shave cream for all skin types to help prevent dryness and irritation. Unscented shave cream for sensitive skin can also help ensure a comfortable shave. After shaving, apply after shave and follow with other shaving products for sensitive skin.

Prepare skin for an effortless, close shave with a lightweight, shave gel. Shaving gel can help soften facial hair for a smooth shave while giving more visibility for a precise shave.

After you shave, rinse skin with cool water and apply a skin-soothing after shave or facial toner. Follow with the rest of your skincare routine.