For many men, shaving is second nature. You splash some water on your face, lather up, swipe the razor, and hope for the best. But if you’ve ever walked away from the mirror with razor burn, ingrown hairs, or patchy results, then it might be time to rethink your routine.
We know that a great shave takes more than a quality razor. You also need to consider when you shave, how you prep your skin, and what products you’re using every step of the way. A well-crafted shaving routine can turn a chore into something that actually improves your skin. And the best part? It doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right timing and a few strategic steps, you can go from irritated to elevated and make every shave smoother, cleaner, and more comfortable.
So let’s break it down into bite-sized pieces: when should you actually shave? Should it be before or after a shower? Where does skincare fit in? And how can you turn a daily task into something that supports healthier, younger-looking skin? At Anthony, we’ve got the answers you need.
When Is The Best Time to Shave?
You’ve probably never given much thought to the timing of your shave. Morning, night, before the gym — it happens when it happens, right? But here’s the thing: when you shave matters more than most guys realize.
Your skin and facial hair behave differently depending on the time of day and your body’s natural rhythms. In the morning, your face may be puffier and your skin more sensitive, especially if you didn’t sleep well or had a salty dinner the night before. In the evening, you might have more time to take it slow, but you’ll also be shaving off a full day’s worth of buildup, including sweat, oil, and dirt.
That said, the best time to shave isn’t the same for everyone. It depends on your schedule, your skin type, and your personal comfort. What matters more is how you prepare your skin for the shave and how well you take care of it afterward. That’s where your shower and skincare routine come in, and we’ll get to those next.
Ideal Shaving Routine: Before or After a Shower?
We’ve already broken this debate down in our guide to the age-old question, Should you shave before or after a shower? Nonetheless, it’s worth repeating: the best time to shave is generally after a warm shower. Why? Because the steam softens your facial hair, opens up your pores, and loosens dead skin cells — basically giving your razor a smoother, clearer path to follow.
Shaving before a shower might save time, but it often leads to more tugging, irritation, and clogged blades. Post-shower skin is cleaner and more hydrated, which means less friction and fewer nicks. If you’re in a rush, even splashing your face with warm water for 30 to 60 seconds can help.
So, while there’s no universal rule, shaving after you shower gives you the edge when it comes to both comfort and results.
Can You Do Your Skincare Routine After Shaving?
Yes, you can and should do your skincare routine after shaving. In fact, that’s when your skin needs it most. Shaving is essentially a controlled (albeit harsh) form of exfoliation. It removes not just hair, but also a thin layer of dead skin. That makes your face more absorbent and receptive to whatever you apply next — but also more vulnerable.
This is an ideal moment to rehydrate, calm, and protect your skin. Once you’ve applied the necessary post-shave products (more on that in our step-by-step shaving routine below), start your skincare routine with a lightweight moisturizer like Anthony’s All Purpose Facial Moisturizer. This helps restore lost moisture and balance your skin’s tone without feeling greasy.
If you’re dealing with dryness, dullness, or early signs of aging, this is also a great time to work in a serum like our High Performance Vitamin C Facial Serum. Because your pores are open, the ingredients can penetrate more effectively, delivering antioxidants where they’re needed most.
And don’t forget the eye area, especially if you’ve gone for a close shave. A product like Anthony’s High Performance Continuous Moisture Eye Cream helps minimize puffiness and fine lines while keeping this delicate skin hydrated.
The takeaway? Your skincare routine isn’t something to skip after shaving. It actually helps your skin recover, stay clear, and look sharp long after you’ve put the razor down.
Our Step-by-Step Shaving Routine For Men
Rather than being an obligation, when done right, a good shave can be the most refreshing part of your grooming routine. The secret to getting it right? It’s all in the prep — and the order.
Start by cleansing your face with warm water and a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and excess oil. This sets the stage for a smoother shave. If you’ve just stepped out of the shower, even better. Your pores are already open, and your facial hair is softer and easier to cut.
From there, apply a thin layer of high-quality shaving gel. A good shaving gel is a great fit for most men. It’s clear, non-irritating, and lets you see exactly where you’re shaving for better precision. Traditional shaving cream has its benefits, too. Since it’s not clear, you can see exactly which areas haven’t been touched yet. With either product, use short, even strokes with a sharp razor, always going with the grain. Take your time around tricky areas like the jawline and upper lip.
Once you’ve finished, rinse with cool water to close your pores and pat (don’t rub) your skin dry. Apply an after shave balm to calm irritation and keep hydration locked in. This is the point where your skin is most receptive to moisture, so it’s worth doing right.
The Best Shaving Routine Products For Men
Every solid shave starts with the right lineup, and Anthony’s got every step covered. Before you reach for your razor, prep with Anthony’s Pre-Shave + Conditioning Beard Oil to soften hairs and protect your skin. If you’ve got facial hair to maintain, make sure to start in the shower with Anthony’s Conditioning Beard Wash.
When it’s time to shave, choose between Anthony’s Shave Cream for a rich, cushiony lather or our clear Shave Gel for precise grooming around beards or tight angles. Either one helps you get a close, smooth shave that won’t cause razor burn or bumps. Afterward, calm your skin with our After Shave Balm. It hydrates, soothes, and leaves your face feeling refreshed instead of raw.
For ongoing maintenance, don’t overlook problem-solvers like Anthony’s Ingrown Hair Treatment, which further reduces bumps and redness from shaving, or our Hair + Beard Tamer, a lightweight styler that will keep your facial hair poshed without stiffness or residue.
Make The Most of Every Shave With Anthony
Now that you know where to get the best products, you can make the most of every shave with Anthony’s help. From pre-shave prep to shave performance and post-shave recovery, each of our products is designed to help you get a smoother, more comfortable shave — no matter your routine.
Want to learn even more about the best men’s shaving routines? If so, be sure to check out the great products and solutions available at Anthony today!
