Shaving is perhaps one of the easiest ways to get rid of unwanted hair. However it comes with a drawback: razor burns. This red rash usually occurs in the shaved area and is usually a result of different factors. Razor burn is a big problem for people who have coarse hair. It can develop in the face, neck, bikini area, under arms or legs. However there is a way of avoiding this problem. Here are the best shaving strategies to steer clear of this problem.SHARP BLADEAlways ensure that the blade of your razor is still sharp. When you use a dull razor you have to make more passes on the same patch of skin resulting in more skin being sloughed off with each pass. This leads to irritation or razor burn. A sharp blade on the other hand cuts the hair more efficiently so less passes are made.SOFTEN SKIN & HAIRPreparing skin before shaving is very important and helps prevent razor burns. The first step in preparing the skin is by cleaning it with mild soap or facial cleanser. These contain ingredients that can soften skin and hair. Another good strategy is to apply a hot towel on the face. This is a good treat when you go to the barber shop for a shave and you can replicate this at home by soaking some towels in hot water. Allow them to cool down to a bearable temperature and cover your face for 2-3 minutes.LATHER UPAfter the hot towel, apply your favorite shaving cream or gel. Apply to your face and shave. The lather will give the blade a slippery surface to glide on while protecting your skin from the blade. Many men use their fingers to apply shaving cream but a good brush will push the lather in to the hair and closer to the skin. Ensuring that everything is covered in shaving cream is important especially for men who shave every day. Invest in a good brush made from raccoon or boar hair.GO WITH THE GRAINGoing against the grain will give you a closer shave but it also makes you prone to ingrown hair and razor burns. Following hair's natural growth pattern makes the blade glide easily even if you have to make more passes. To identify your hair's growth pattern run your fingers across your stubble before shaving. If you must shave against the grain, find the path of least resistance to make shaving easier.SHAVING BALMIn some cases, following the above stated advice can still lead to razor burns. When this happens, apply shaving balm on your skin. Shaving balms, lotion and aftershave contain antiseptic that can help reduce irritation and heal skin.When it comes to shaving and avoiding razor burns, always take your time. People who are in a rush to shave are not only prone to skin irritation but to nicks and cuts too. Taking your time ensures that you can concentrate on the task at hand and make sure that your skin is ready for shaving.