You’ve made all the right choices, used the best products—now it’s time to finish strong. The right post-shave routine will help calm and nourish your skin, leaving you fresh-faced for the day ahead.

Rinse

Before and during your shave, hot water softens your facial hair, making it easier to cut. But after you’re through, a thorough rinse with cool water is key. A healthy splash will help to tighten the blood vessels of your face, eliminating any initial bleeding caused by small nicks, and removing any leftover residue.

Pat Dry

Shaving doesn’t just remove hair, it also removes layers of skin—and those newly-exposed skin cells are extra vulnerable to infection and irritation. So don’t underestimate the importance of a clean, dry towel, and remember to pat—not rub your face dry. Rubbing can create unnecessary friction and redness.

Soothe

Apply a post-shave balm immediately following to soothe your face and reduce any stinging or redness. During your shave, all sorts of things are raising your skin’s pH; soap, shaving cream, foam, even the water itself. Post-shave balm is restorative. It de-stresses by bringing your skin’s pH back to normal. A moisture-based balm with essential oils has antiseptic benefits that will help prevent the growth of bacteria, without drying out your skin.

Protect

Before heading out the door, use a face lotion with SPF to moisturize your entire face and neck area. This will aide your skin’s defenses against the sun, wind and dryness, and diminish the aging process. Ingredients such as emollients and humectants help maintain proper hydration, making skin look and feel healthier. The added sun protection will reduce damage caused by UVA and UVB rays, effectively slowing your skin’s aging.