1Get Hot Simply by having a warm shower before you shave will help to soften the hairs, plus it works to open your pores, this means that the hair will stand out further enabling you to get an even closer shave. Remember to exfoliate or cleanse skin prior to shaving to remove dead skin cells.

2Stay Sharp Make sure you keep your tools in good condition, keep the blades clear and store your razor somewhere well ventilated. Any build-up is going to make hard work of shaving, a blunt razor causes nicks and cuts and the overall results are not going to give you a close shave. King of Shaves have launched the Azor (RRP £4.99) which promises a closer shave because it bends around the contours of your face.

3Lather Up The act of shaving is pretty brutal on your skin and believe it or not, you take off as much in the way of layers of skin as you do hair. A great shave foam, oil or cream will allow your razor to glide effortlessly over your skin - massage it thoroughly into stubble and use a product containing Aloe Vera to protect against razor rashes and burns. Try The Real Shaving Company Shaving Cream (RRP £3.99) we rate the 'Moisturising' variety. Don't be heavy handed with the amount you use, less really is more!

4Go With The Grain Always shave in the direction of the hair's growth. Going against the grain causes rashes, razor burn, redness and ingrown hairs. Keep rinsing the razor in hot water and use slow, short strokes. Don't rush it.

5Post Shave You're face is now fuzz and (hopefully) nick free, your skin is smooth but it's still pretty raw so you'll want to soothe skin and avoid stripping out anymore nutrients out. If you like using an after-shave, make sure it's alcohol-free (alcohol based products cause dryness and irritation). It's also crucial to get some moisture and nourishment back into skin and protect it from the elements. We recommend Clarins Men After Shave Soother (RRP £20.55), it's lightweight, non-sticky and with Shea Butter and Marula Oil, very moisturising.