Your shaving routine is personal. It should be catered to your needs, your schedule, and last but not least, the equipment that you prefer to use. One component of my routine that can the process is the shower. I consistently find myself debating if I have enough time to shower before to prepare my skin for a wet shave, or if I should just do some light maintenance with an electric beard trimmer and clean off in the shower afterwards. I did observe one man at the gym who, much to my surprise, completed a wet shave before taking a full shower. This got me thinking, what really is better? Showering before or after a shave? What about during? What are the pros and cons of each? If you might've wondered the same thing, look no further, as I have done research for you.
Option one: Shaving before
The first method that we will be looking at today is the pre-shower shave. This works best for those who are usually on a time crunch and/or prefer to use electric razors. Electric razors tend to work best in dry conditions, as most of them are not waterproof, and they are usually pretty quick at getting a decent job done. An added benefit is that when you step into the shower afterwards, the facial hair will wash away as you rinse off, killing two birds with one stone.
If you attempt to wet shave before showering, you will more than likely experience a much coarser, rougher shave than if you were to after your shower. This may cause a heightened likelihood for nicks, cuts, and razor bumps. At the very least, we would recommend washing your face with warm-hot water before, however at that point, it's probably just better to take a full shower.
Option two: Shaving after
The more popular of the options, the post-shower shave is beloved by the everyman and wet shaving nerd alike. Simply put, it is the best way to prepare for a smooth, close, and (most importantly) safe shave every time.
First, showering enables you to wash any dirt and oils that have built up since your last shower, ensuring that you are going into the shave with a fully clean face. This keeps the process sanitary, limiting risks of irritation and/or infection of potential cuts.
Second, showering softens the facial hair and makes it stand out a little more straight from the face, both helping the blade glide through more easily and efficiently. This will allow you to take fewer passes through overall and aid in achieving those luscious BBS shaves that we all want (need), as well as limiting the amount of irritation that you may experience post-shave.
Option three: Shaving during
Providing the easiest cleanup, this could be the best option for those who are opting to shave below the tie. While this is not what we would recommend for the wet shaving enthusiast, this may be a get-two-birds-stoned-at-once option for the time-strapped person who uses a titanium razor, cartridge razors (audible shudder), or a waterproof electric razor. Just be sure to use a fogless mirror.
Conclusion
In our view, the best option is the one that you feel most comfortable with. If you’re a person who is short on time and/or prefers an electric razor. Shave before a shower. If you’re looking for a close, comfortable, and clean shave and you happen to have a few extra minutes in your daily schedule, we would recommend shaving after you shower. If you're grooming your body and want minimal cleanup, then shave during your shower. Whichever option you pick, just be sure that it fits in your schedule and you like what you see! If you're looking to achieve a clean and efficient shave, have a look at our unbeatable safety razors to find the right one for you.
