The most important part of getting a closer shave with an electric razor is the preparation of your face before shaving. If you want to use your electric razor to get a closer shave with less chance of skin irritation, then you definitely need to follow these tips.

The first step to preparing your face for shaving is to give it a good, thorough washing. This removes dirt and oil, and opens your pores, which will help you get a super close shave. 

When washing your face, it’s also recommended to use an exfoliating soap or cloth to help scrub away dead skin cells.

Using an alcohol based pre-shave lotion to help further remove oil and impurities is also a good idea. Use products that include vitamin E and other ingredients that can help reduce irritation and limit razor burn.

How to Shave with an Electric Razor: Tips for a Closer Shave

Once you’ve prepared your face and are ready to shave, there are a few basic tips that will help you get a closer shave. Once you’re done with the shave, it’s best to follow up by using a good aftershave lotion or balm to help prevent irritation.

Find the Grain and Go Against It

You’ve probably been told most of your life that you should always shave with the grain, but the opposite is true for electric razors. . If you aren't sure what direction the grain is, rub your hands across your face. Whichever direction feels rough (usually backwards) is is against the grain, while the smooth direction is with the grain.

Use the Correct Angle

Holding the shaver at right angles to your face will help ensure maximum skin contact, giving you a quicker and more thorough job.

Pull Your Skin Tight

One of the most key elements to getting the closest possible shave with an electric razor is to use your spare hand to pull your skin tight while shaving. This helps make the hairs stand upright and will hopefully keep you from pulling the hairs out instead of cutting them off. If you’re using a foil shaver, you should shave in up and down or back and forth motions. With rotary shavers, they should always be used in small, circular motions.

Shave Strategically

Many electric razors get too hot before you’ve finished shaving your entire face. So it’s a good idea to shave the most sensitive areas first to avoid getting burned.

If you’ve never used an electric razor before, it will most likely take a few weeks before your skin will get used it, but once you get the hang of it, it's smooth sailing.