Sharpologist: 10 Commandments of Wet Shaving

Think about when you first started wet shaving. You had to figure out which type of blade suited your skin and beard best, how to hold the razor so as to not apply too much pressure, and countless other details that, when mastered, produced the kind of shave that reminded you why you left your cartridge. While there is much helpful information online, it can be a lot to sort through and absorb when you’re just getting started. Sometimes it’s more effective to have an easy-to-reference guide that gets to the point, especially if you’re just about to embark on a shave. That’s why we wanted to share Sharpologist’s "10 Commandments of Wet Shaving." For those new to wet shaving, take these tips in stride to better your shave. For veterans, let these commandments remind you of proper form. And keep in mind that as with any wet shaving advice, YMMV (your mileage may vary). The last commandment reprimands alcohol-based aftershaves, but if your D.R. Harris Aftershave Splash is the only product that’ll reduce redness and acne post-shave, keep at it. Enjoy! Via Sharpologist:

1. Thou Shalt Prepare Thyself Properly

Thoroughly anoint thyself with a gentle facial cleanser and warm water, for cleanliness is next to shaveliness.

2. Thou Shalt Use As Few Blades As Necessary

For more shall tempt the demons of irritation.

3. Thou Shalt Use A Sharp Blade

Those same demons of irritation shalt seek another way to tempt those who are overly parsimonious.

4. Remember To Honor Thy Grain

Knoweth the directions thy stubble grow in. For knowing thyself is the key to happiness. But neither shall thou be a slave to it’s mercy, by wielding the correct tool and the correct ways.

5. Thou Shalt Reduce Thy Stubble

For the attempt to eliminate it completely and forever shall surely fail.

6. Thou Shalt Not Overly Stretch Thy Skin

Flattening thy skin shall be rewarded; dramatic stretching is a sign of the disbeliever.

7. Thou Shalt Use The Lightest Possible Touch

For pressure begets depression, which in-turn begets another temptation of the demons of irritation.

8. Thou Shalt Take Thy Strokes Modestly

Remember to honor thy shave by taking short strokes, for long strokes shall forsaken it.

9. Thou Shalt Take Thy Time

For impatience will surely tempt thee to take the Lord’s name in vain.

10. Thou Shalt Not Use Alcohol In Thou’s After Shave Preparation

For such a shaving mélange will do thou no good in the fullness of time.