Top 10 tips for avoiding irritated skin

• 1. Take your time and avoid rushing the shave.
  
  
• 2. Mastering your shaving technique will help avoid nasty bumps and lumps.
  
  
• 3. Use a mirror or get your partner to map out the direction of hair growth — you will find it rarely grows the one way. Each stroke should follow the direction of growth. Combining a good shaving technique with fresh, quality blades will help reduce pressure and irritation.
  
  
• 4. Those with really sensitive skin and a susceptibility to in-grown hairs should be careful of over-shaving and shaving against the grain as it may aggravate the condition.

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• 5. Avoid using harsh soaps and over-scrubbing the skin as this will contribute to skin irritation.
  
  
• 6. Use a gentle cleanser to remove grit and grime and prepare the skin for a smoother shave.
  
  
• 7. It's important to leave gel on for at least a minute or two before shaving to soften the facial hair and reduce the cutting force, such as the Gillette Fusion HydraGel Pure + Sensitive.
  
  
• 8. Applying an alcohol free moisturiser, such as the Gillette After-the-Shave Moisturiser which has proven performance on sensitive skin. This will help replenish and rehydrate the skin, resulting in smoother, more comfortable skin.
  
  
• 9. Avoid shaving before prolonged periods in the sun, surf or playing sport. Shaving opens the pores and perspiration can increase the chance of irritation.
  
  
• 10. Avoid sun burns — always use sunscreen when outdoors with sun exposure.