The razor shave: what to expect and the aftercare
A full razor shave takes twenty five to forty minutes, gets closer than any cartridge razor because the blade cuts the hair level with the skin, and its result holds for one to two days depending on growth rate.
gelisted editorial team · Updated 15 August 2026
The short version
- The service costs 18 € to 35 €.
- The hot towel is applied for 2 to 4 minutes to open the follicle.
- The result holds 24 to 48 hours.
- Blades must be single use or sterilised between clients.
It is not just a closer shave. It is a procedure with steps that prepare the skin before the blade touches it, and skipping those steps is what produces irritation.
The stages
Cleansing of the face. A hot towel for 2 to 4 minutes to soften the hair and open the follicle. Preparation with soap or cream applied with a brush, which lifts the hair and creates slip. A first pass with the direction of growth. A second pass against the grain where appropriate. And a close with a cold towel, an alcohol free lotion and a moisturising balm.
| Stage | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Pre cleanse | 2 minutes | removes oil and dirt |
| Hot towel | 2 to 4 minutes | softens the hair |
| Brush preparation | 2 to 3 minutes | lifts the hair |
| Pass with the grain | 5 to 8 minutes | main cut |
| Pass against the grain | 5 to 8 minutes | closeness |
| Cold towel and balm | 3 to 5 minutes | closes the pore |
| Service price | 18 to 35 € |
What the hygiene rules require
Anything that cuts must be single use or sterilised between clients. In practice that means a new blade unwrapped in front of the customer, plus disinfection of the handle and the other implements. Clean towels for each service. And disinfected surfaces between clients. A shop that does not open the blade in front of you is not following the standard, and it is fair to ask directly.
When it is not advisable
With active acne, dermatitis, open wounds or recent sunburn, because the blade opens lesions and spreads irritation. With recurrent folliculitis or very curly hair prone to ingrowing, where a close pass against the grain makes matters worse and a single pass with the grain is preferable. And on very reactive skin, where it is worth starting without the second pass and judging the response.
After a facial treatment with chemical exfoliation, wait 5 to 7 days before a close shave.
The aftercare
An alcohol free lotion, because alcohol dries and increases irritation in the following hours. A moisturising balm on the day and the day after. No direct sun exposure without protection for 24 hours. And in the general routine, gentle exfoliation once or twice a week, which is the single measure that most reduces ingrown hairs in skin prone to them.
Frequently asked
+How long does a razor shave take?
Between 25 and 40 minutes for the full service with hot towel and two passes.
+How long does the result last?
Twenty four to forty eight hours depending on individual growth rate.
+Is it safe?
Yes with single use or sterilised material. The blade should be unwrapped in front of the client.
+When should I avoid it?
With active acne, dermatitis, wounds, recent sunburn or recurrent folliculitis.
+What should I apply afterwards?
An alcohol free lotion and a moisturising balm, plus sun protection if exposed within 24 hours.
Sources
- 1Ministerio de Sanidad, Gobierno de España (August 2026)
- 2Govern de les Illes Balears, Govern de les Illes Balears (August 2026)