Nicks Happen

Apply a moistened alum block, an age-old remedy. Bloc Osma's uses potassium to clean the wound and close the pores and natural alum, which shrinks the capillaries to stop the bleeding.

$9 by Osma

Stress-Free Shaving

First thing in the morning, you're dragging a sharp blade across your face, around your neck, then dipping into crevices around your chin. Face it, the practice of shaving can be a stressful and sometimes painful endeavor. Herewith, everything you need to know to make the process (and your shave) as smooth as possible.

The Razor

Irritation is often due to a dull blade or simply too many blades. Most dermatologists will tell you, in order to achieve a quick and painless shave, swap out your vibrating five-blade cartridges for a low-tech, disposable two-blade model and change it regularly after four or five shaves.

$8 for 10, by Gilette

The Cream

This soothing and slippery bergamot-scented cream is one of the best we've ever tried. It makes for a fast, foamless shave and moisturizes skin with macadamia seed oil, aloe and xylitol, a compound found in birch trees that makes for a powerful skin conditioner.

$6, by Cremo Cream

The Technique

Soften skin and open pores with a warm shower before lathering up. Remember to shave with the grain (in the direction of the hair growth) and let the razor do the work—don't press the blade too hard. Flatten, but try not to stretch, the skin and avoid shaving over the same area twice. Use shorter strokes on your neck to prevent irritation.