What kind of movements do you use when using the razor?

• A. Back-and-forth across grain
• B. Against the grain
• C. Circular strokes
• D. Forward gliding motion with the grain

Answer: (D)

Shaving with a razor works best when the blade follows the natural direction of hair growth. The movement you want is a forward glide in the same direction the hairs are growing. This keeps the blade cutting hair smoothly with less resistance, reduces the chance of nicks, and minimizes skin irritation. To do this well, keep the skin taut and hold the blade at a shallow angle so the edge lightly kisses the surface and slides along the skin. Hair growth varies across the face, so you’ll adjust your path as you work. Moving the razor back and forth across the grain or using circular strokes can pull on the skin and cause irritation, and shaving against the grain—even though it can be very close—greatly increases the risk of cuts, especially for beginners.