Your son may not speak about it, but he will always cherish the things you taught him. When he was a little kid, perhaps you taught him how to play sports, how to fish or hunt, and many other manly things. Now that your child is growing up, he has more things to learn from you. As a father, take this moment to teach your child how to shave properly. Shaving is a big deal to many boys, and they often look forward to it while growing up, because growing facial hair is a visual sign that they are turning into a man. So be the supporting father that you are and be teach your young man the nitty-gritty when it comes to shaving.
Here’s how you can teach your son to shave:
1. Do it at the right time
The moment you notice some hair growing in your son’s chin or upper lip, you know that it’s time to start teaching him. Remind him during the early stages when it’s the right time to shave, then tell him how frequently he needs to shave. It varies from one man to the next, as some do it twice or thrice a week, while others will only do it once. As a father, you’ll know when it’s right. You can coach him by allowing him to watch you shave so he can learn the technique.
2. Choose a quality razor
When young men start shaving for the first time, they will most likely prefer what their fathers are using. There are two kinds of razors: blade or electric razor. If you are using an electric razor, then most probably, they want to learn how to use it themselves as well. Electric razors are more convenient since you don’t need to use shaving cream or prepare the face for shaving. Electric razors are also more suitable for sensitive skin or acne-prone skin. But the downside to using it is that they can be expensive (and some may find it impractical for a task as simple as shaving), and they don’t always give the closest shave. Blade razors can get a closer shave, but you have to take caution while using it so as not to accidentally injure the face. Blade razors are also cheaper and more accessible. But no matter what your son prefers, or what you think is what’s best for him, the important thing is to demonstrate how you use it and guide them on their first time shaving.
3. Teach him proper face preparation techniques
If your son chooses to use a blade razor, it is important to teach him to prepare his face before shaving. He might get excited to shave all his facial hair out, and this might cause skin irritation. Teach him to wash his face clean first, then apply some shaving cream or gel depending on your son’s preference. It’s easier to let him use what shaving cream you are using, but if he has a skin condition (oily skin, acne-prone skin, etc.), make sure it suits his skin type. You may need to try a few options before you find the one that works well your son’s skin type. Also remember that washing the face is a pre-requisite, whatever razor you prefer to use.
4. Teach him shaving techniques
Once the face is clean, the next step is to let him learn how to shave correctly. The razor must glide over the skin gently. Encourage him to shave in the direction of the hair growth to prevent cuts and nicks. Once he’s more used to using the razor, you can teach him to shave against the hair growth for a closer shave. Make sure he rinses the razor after each stroke to prevent nicks. Rinsing the blade regularly will help it remain sharp, thus helping it to glide smoothly over the skin and avoid cuts and nicks. Teach him to move the blade from up to the bottom of the face, and shave smoothly and slowly.
5. Encourage him to take aftershave care techniques
Once you have taught your son how to shave, the next thing you should do is to teach him aftershave care. Remind him to pat his skin dry with a clean towel and don’t rub the face. Then, tell him to apply an aftershave or moisturizer to help soothe his skin. It’s important to apply a good aftershave no matter what razor you use. If your son’s skin is sensitive, try to find an aftershave that is alcohol-free and formulated for sensitive skin. An aftershave that is heavily scented might not be a good choice for sensitive skin.
6. Teach him everything about clean-up and razor care
Remind him to clean the razor immediately after shaving, as well as the sink or counter, as these may catch some of the shaving cream and hair. If your son is using an electric razor, make sure he knows that it needs to be lubricated and whiskers must be removed to keep it sharp. Meanwhile, if he opts for a blade razor, make sure he rinses it after use and pats it dry with a clean towel. He should know that leaving it wet may cause the blades to be rusty, which may cause skin infection when used. Also, tell him to never share razors with others, even with you, as sharing razors can result in different skin problems, including infection.
As you teach your son how to shave properly, encourage him to do it only when needed. Over shaving may irritate his skin. And remember, teaching the art of shaving is a great bonding opportunity for you and your son – no matter how mundane you think it is. You may be passing him great tips on how to be a good dad.