How to Use an Electric Shaver for the First Time

Prepare your skin before you start

The most important step is preparing your skin. Dermatologists recommend wetting your skin and hair to soften it before shaving, and the best time is right after a shower, when your skin is warm, moist, and free of excess oil and dead skin cells that can clog the blades. If your shaver is wet-and-dry rated, you can shave in the shower; if it is not, shave right after.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, look for a shaving cream or gel labeled for sensitive skin. For a dry shave, make sure your face is clean and completely dry. Shaving cream is not required with most electric shavers, but a pre-shave lotion can help reduce friction. Avoid applying heavy creams or oils before a dry shave, as they can clog the foil or rotary head. For more details on when to use water, see our article on wet and dry shaving.

If you have coarse or curly hair, you are more prone to ingrown hairs. The NHS suggests using an electric razor instead of wet shaving to reduce ingrown hairs, so switching to an electric model may already be a step in the right direction. Shaving with the grain is especially critical for you, as explained in the next section.

• Wash your face with warm water to soften hair and open pores.
• If shaving wet, apply a thin layer of shaving gel or cream.
• If shaving dry, ensure your face is dry and free of lotions or oils.
• Do not shave immediately after drinking alcohol or if your skin is sunburned.

How to hold the shaver

Hold the shaver with a relaxed grip, not a tight fist. A tight grip increases pressure, which can irritate the skin. For a foil shaver, hold it like a pencil, with the head flat against your face. For a rotary shaver, hold it like a tennis racket, with the head angled so the three cutters contact your skin evenly. Choosing the right type of shaver for your hand size can make a difference, so check our guide on men's electric shavers for models that are easy to hold.

Keep your other hand free to stretch the skin. Stretching the skin with your free hand creates a flatter surface, which lets the blades cut closer and reduces the chance of nicks. Do not press the shaver into your skin; let the blades do the work. If you have a flexible head, it will follow the contours of your face automatically, as explained in our flexing head article.

Shaving technique: with the grain, not against it

The golden rule is to shave in the direction that the hair grows. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) emphasizes that shaving in the direction of hair growth helps prevent razor bumps and burns. This is especially important for people with coarse or curly hair, who are more prone to ingrown hairs. For a detailed comparison of foil and rotary shavers, see our foil vs. rotary guide.

For most men, hair on the neck grows downward, but on the jawline it may grow upward. Take a moment to feel the direction of growth. Shave with the grain for the first pass, then, if you want a closer shave, re-lather and shave across the grain. Avoid shaving against the grain, as this increases the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs. The NHS also advises not shaving too close, leaving at least 1mm of stubble to help prevent ingrown hairs.

Use short, light strokes. Do not press hard. Let the shaver glide over your skin. Rinse the head after each swipe to remove hair and shaving cream, as this keeps the blades effective. For an electric shaver, you can also use the pop-up trimmer to tidy sideburns and the neckline before or after the main pass. Learn proper trimmer use in our article on using the pop-up trimmer.

Aftercare: rinse, moisturize, and check for irritation

After shaving, rinse your face with cool water to remove remaining shaving cream and hair. The NHS recommends holding a cool, wet cloth to your skin after shaving to reduce irritation. Pat your face dry with a clean towel, then apply a moisturizer or aftershave balm. Alcohol-based aftershaves can sting; avoid them if you have sensitive skin. If you are prone to razor bumps, the AAD suggests letting your beard grow for a month to allow trapped hairs to spring out, but if you prefer to keep shaving, try using an electric razor and follow the tips in this article.

Clean your shaver after each use. Most electric shavers can be rinsed under the tap if they are wet-and-dry rated. For dry shavers, use the cleaning brush that comes with the device. Learn more about cleaning without a station to keep your shaver hygienic and effective. Store the shaver in a dry area; the AAD warns that leaving a razor in a wet environment invites bacteria growth.

For your first few shaves, expect some mild redness. This is normal as your skin adapts. If you see razor bumps or ingrown hairs, the AAD suggests growing your beard for a month if possible, which lets trapped hairs spring out. For ongoing care, use an exfoliating scrub weekly to release any trapped hairs. See our guide on preventing razor burn for more tips.

• Rinse with cool water and pat dry.
• Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer or balm.
• Clean and dry the shaver after every use.
• Wait at least a day between shaves if you have sensitive skin.

Common mistakes to avoid on your first shave

Many first-time users press the shaver too hard, expecting a closer shave. That actually causes irritation and can lead to razor bumps. Another mistake is shaving against the grain right away. Start with the grain and only do a second pass in another direction if needed. Also, do not skip the pre-shave prep: a clean, softened beard is easier to cut.

Do not forget to keep the shaver clean during the shave. Rinsing the head after each swipe prevents clogging and keeps the blades cutting efficiently. If you are using a dry shaver, you can tap it on the sink to remove loose hairs, but never shake it forcefully. Finally, avoid sharing your shaver; it is a personal hygiene item, and sharing can spread bacteria.

What to pick for your first electric shaver

Questions

Should I use shaving cream with an electric shaver?

It depends on the shaver. If your shaver is wet-and-dry rated, you can use shaving gel or cream. For dry shavers, use a pre-shave lotion instead of cream, as cream can clog the head. Dermatologists recommend a shaving cream labeled for sensitive skin if you have dry or sensitive skin. Our wet and dry guide explains the differences more.

How long does it take for my skin to get used to an electric shaver?

Most people adapt within one to two weeks of regular shaving. During the first week, expect mild redness or a slight stinging sensation. Shave with the grain, use light pressure, and moisturize after each shave to help your skin adjust. If irritation persists, consider trying a different foil or rotary model that may suit your skin better.

Can I use an electric shaver on a beard?

Yes, but for longer beards, use a trimmer attachment first. Electric shavers are designed for short stubble; cutting a long beard directly can pull hairs and dull the blades. Use the pop-up trimmer or a separate trimmer to shorten the beard, then finish with the shaver. See our trimmer-included shavers if you want a 2-in-1 device.

How do I prevent razor bumps with an electric shaver?

Shave with the grain, use as few strokes as possible, and do not press hard. The NHS also recommends trying an electric razor rather than wet shaving to reduce ingrown hairs. If you have curly or coarse hair, growing your beard for a month can clear existing bumps. For more detail, read our sensitive skin guide.

Is it OK to shave every day with an electric shaver?

Yes, if your skin tolerates it. The NHS advises not shaving every day if possible, to give skin time to recover. If you have sensitive skin, start with every other day and increase frequency slowly. Some shavers have a sensitive mode that reduces power, which can help, as discussed in our article on electric shaver motor power.