Pre-pre-beard prep has really helped me
I have always been plagued with nicks, skin irritation after a shave, and razor bumps, even with my straights. It has been three shaves now, with nothing else in my routine changing and I haven't had any of those problems since I started trying to take better care of my skin. I have really dry skin, so I have been diligent about washing my face every morning, using facial moisturizer at least twice a day, maybe more if it gets dry/flaky in between, and exfoliate twice a week with olive oil and ground oatmeal in a 1:1 mix. My advice.. know your skin type and start preparing for your shave long before your shower or hot towel.
