Applying only light pressure (pressing too hard will give you more friction, which can then equal more irritation), shave in small, circular movements. Slow down and take your time with sensitive areas.

Now that you’ve gone over your entire face once, it’s time to go closer. Make your final pass now, using a little more pressure, and moving against the grain. As before, you’ll want to treat sensitive areas with a little extra care and caution.

Shaving without shaving cream means it’s easier to spot those rogue hairs that have escaped your shaver. To tackle them (and any areas that are tough to reach), try gently pulling your skin a little more taut. This will lift the hairs, making things easier for your shaver.

The length and style of your sideburns is up to you, but now is definitely the time to take care of them with your trimmer or styler attachment.

Now for some after-care. Get that fresh-shave feeling by finishing up with aftershave or a shaving balm. That’s it: you’re ready to face the day.

Remember: Shaving at least three times a week can help keep your skin used to the electric shaver, meaning you get better results. And don’t forget that all-important post-shave hygiene. Rinse your shaver with plenty of lukewarm water, shake it off, and lay it out open. Of course, if you have the Philips Norelco SmartClean system, you can skip this part—just put the shaver in and know that it’ll be clean and ready when you next need it.