well, any 'professional' shaver/barber will tell you a 'wet shave' is the best shave. in theory, what they say is the best method to shave (in it's somewhat basic form):
Equipment: Safety razor/blades, shaving soap/cream, shaving brush, miscellaneous products (pre-shave creams, scented stuff, etc.)
1.) Shave after a warm/warm-to-hot shower, as this opens up your pores and makes it an easier job for the blade essentially. Or, heat the area with a hot wet washcloth pre-shave.
2.) Some people prefer this, some don't. There are certain 'pre-shave' products you can apply that, in theory, 'stand your hairs up' to allow for a smoother, cleaner-cut shave. I tried some of this stuff, I forget the brand but it's a menthol-type smell and you just rub it on, give it some time, then apply the shaving cream/soap and continue.
3.) Apply your lather and keep your face wet while shaving, you want a nice coat of water on your face so the blade slides, not drags. follow the direction of the follicle, don't 'back shave' where you're going against the grain so to speak.
4.) Rinse and then clean your face.
Roll with that, and you'll have a perfect shave every time no irritation. And if you do have a problem with that, bust out the Hibiclens.
You'd be surprised how many guys have no clue about shaving and think that those disposable blades are good or do the same job...listen, a sharp edge is a sharp edge, the disposable blades are cheap, yes, but they are cheaply made, of inferior steel, frequently cause unnecessary irritation and a plethora of other things barbers will tell you about. That's cool, if it's your method it's your method but I'm just saying there are less irritating ways to rid your face of hair, and you get to do it with style...plus, it really depends on how often you shave your face. In a month I generally shave 4-10 times, depending. Not often. That means 1 blade will last me 1, 2, 3 months. You can tell when it's dull...just switch it out. You can get a pack of 10 for a few dollars, you just spend the money on the safety razor and other stuff.
Guy in Camaro: I buy the disposable blades because they're a good price and last me a long time.
If you don't see the irony in the above sentence there's no hope for you
