Leaf razors are just like any razor you’re used to using. But it’s important to approach your delicate areas with care. A mindful shave can make all the difference.
Achieving silky smoothness requires not only the right tools but also the right technique. Let’s delve in, and we’ll cover everything from preventing ingrown hairs to mastering the technique.
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Ingrown Hair
When new growth gets trapped under the skin and curls beneath it, that ingrown hair can be painful or affect the appearance of your skin. Here's how you can address and prevent them:Experts agree—exfoliating before shaving can help reduce the risk of ingrown hair as you clear away dead skin cells and allow for a cleaner shave.
For less risk of ingrown hairs, opt for a less-close shave by shaving with the grain, leaving some stubble, especially if your skin needs healing time.
Alternatively, remove the bottom blade in your Leaf razor and shave against the grain for a smoother finish.
Level up your shaving game by exfoliating a couple of days post-shave (NOT immediately after). This helps prevent new growth from getting trapped.
If you’re prone to redness or irritation, use Shave Oil before and during, and finish your shave with Calming Serum. Soothe those sensitive skin areas so you can feel clean, smooth, and happy!
The Pre-Shave Ritual
Before you shave, it is critical to prepare your skin properly. If it’s been a while since you’ve shaved or trimmed, use a trimmer to take your hair down low. Shorter hair is easier to shave cleanly.Start with some gentle exfoliation: you can use a lightly textured scrub, an exfoliating mitt, or other tool. The purpose of exfoliation is to clear away dead skin cells, giving your razor a more even canvas on which to work. The result will be a more even shave, and you’ll reduce the risk of trapping hair beneath the skin line which is what leads to ingrown hair.
Next, clean your skin with Shave Soap Bar in a warm shower or bath to open up your pores and soften your hair. This makes the hair easier to cut and for a more comfortable shave.
Finally, apply a few drops of Shave Oil and massage into your skin. This provides lubrication for your razor and further softens the hair, reducing friction and the likelihood of irritation.
The Shave
Now that you've got a good lather going, let's talk about our metal razors—they might feel a bit weightier than what you're used to, so take a moment to adapt to the new weight and balance.
Which razor should I use?
You can use either The Leaf triple-blade razor, or either of our two single-edge razors Twig and Thorn. Which tool is right for you depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you prioritize the adjustability and pivoting head of The Leaf razor, that is where you should start. If you prefer the smallest lightest razor because you feel this gives you more manual control, select our single-edge Twig or Thorn model. When deciding between Twig or Thorn, the Twig is the mildest razor in our lineup, and the Thorn is a medium-level aggressiveness.
Technique
Your first shaving pass should always be with the grain of hair growth, especially around curves, folds, and every nook and cranny in between. If you are particularly prone to ingrown hair when shaving sensitive areas, you should stop your shave after the with-the-grain pass. At most, make small touchup passes going accross-grain. Avoid shaving against-the-grain of hair growth as you will encourage shaving the hair so close that it may curl back under the skin when growing back.Take your time, don’t rush. Spend time in areas that require extra attention and allow the razor to work its magic without the need for excessive pressure.
Using The Leaf Triple Blade Razor
What sets The Leaf razor apart is its ability to take multiple-blades, adjustability in how close it’s shaving, and its pivoting head. If you are just starting to shave more sensitive areas with your Leaf Razor, we suggest starting off without the bottom blade loaded in the head. Use only two blades, loaded in the middle and top spots.
This will adjust the razor into it’s mild setting, and it will be more forgiving. In this setting, you may even be able to confidently shave against-the-grain of hair growth with reduced risk of ingrown hair. If you are only shaving with the grain of hair growth, and you have a good handle on how The Leaf razor works, you can load all three blades into the head for a closer shave.
Using The Twig or Thorn Single Edge Razor
When using a single-edge razor, the trick is to simply glide the razor head over the surface of your skin. There’s no need to press it in harder to shave closer, as it shaves effectively without pressure. Simply let the blade skim over the surface of your skin using short feathering strokes, and you’ll see the hair fall away.
Good tool hygene is extremely important, especially in more sensitive areas. To remove the risk of introducing bacteria to your skin during a shave, ensure your razor is in good condition, you’re using a clean, sharp, fresh blade, and you have recently cleaned your razor.
If you’ve never cleaned your razor before, grab an old toothbrush, apply some dish soap, and scrub both inside and outside of the razor head to eliminate any lingering hair or soap residue. This routine will ensure your razor stays in top condition for optimal performance.
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So, with the right tools, technique, and a touch of care, you're just one shave away from enjoying cleaner, smoother skin. Are you ready to discover the Leaf Shave difference?
