How to get a perfect shave with a safety razor

A safety razor is cheaper to run, kinder to your skin and gives a closer shave than any multi-blade cartridge. It just asks you to slow down and learn a little technique. Here is everything you need.

Prep properly

Shave straight after a hot shower, when the hair is soft. Build a warm lather with a brush and a good soap or cream and work it in. Good prep is half the shave.

Angle and pressure

Hold the razor at roughly 30 degrees to the skin and let the weight of the head do the work. The number one mistake is pressing. Don't. Use short strokes and go with the grain first, re-lather, then across the grain if you want it closer. Save against-the-grain for when you are confident.

Aftercare

Rinse cold to close the pores, then use a calming balm to soothe the skin. Change the blade every five or six shaves. A blunt blade drags and causes irritation, and blades cost pennies.

Give it a week or two of practice. Once it clicks, you will not go back.

The kit: Mühle R41 razor, Mühle silvertip brush and the Mühle organic aftershave balm.