There’s a reason you keep going back to your local barbershop to get a proper shave: Because it’s better than when you try to do it on your own. But you don’t have to book an appointment every day to maintain that close, perfect shave. In fact, you can do it on your own. We reached out to Xavier Rodriguez, assistant barber manager at Fellow Barber in New York City, to get his grooming tips on how to get the perfect barbershop shave at home. So grab your razor, some shaving cream, and your other grooming gear and follow these five easy, expert-approved steps.
1. After showering, rub on preshave oil.
 It softens facial hair and provides slickness to the skin.
2. Apply shaving cream or shave soap.
Employ a badger brush to work it in thoroughly.
3. Shave.
Use smooth strokes, no more than two passes on an area. And swap your blade every three to five shave.
4. Rinse with cold water.
This cleans off excess product and closes pores, minimizing redness and irritation.
5. Apply aftershave.
The lotion soothes skin and often has a pleasant, but manly, scent.