Regular care of your skin will help mitigate the rigors of daily shaving. The weekly use of a facial cleanser with an exfoliant can assist in eliminating the layers of dead skin cells and open-up your pores. Wet your skin with warm water before you begin shaving. Lather-up and apply shaving gel onto stubbled areas – a product that contains moisturizers is ideal. Make certain to use only clean sharp blades, dull ones are commonly responsible for cuts and nicks, and they can catch the hairs on your beard and produce an uncomfortable sensation while shaving. Rinse the blades often in hot water during your shave and use slow short strokes. Shaving with the grain (direction of hair growth) will reduce the chances of skin reactions such as redness, rashes, razor burn and ingrown hairs. Be aware of the amount of pressure that you are applying – pressing the blades too hard against your skin can also cause these irritating symptoms to occur. After shaving, apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to soothe and protect your face. Avoid products containing alcohol, as these can cause dryness and irritation.