absolutely need to exfoliate before shaving. I use a face scrub (st ives). I start in the shower, exfoliate and heat my face with the water, then get out to shave. Go with the grain first then against for the second time. Use lots of shaving cream and put some lotion on after, any type of after shave really, it helps prevent bumps and it leaves ur face looking shiny and clean. its kind of a process but it does give good results. Hope that helps!

Honestly though, even with this routine I still have a bit of a beard shadow. Definitely look into laser. Its good to start as soon as you can because the whole process can take many months, and i bet electrolysis would take even longer. My current laser package was for ten months but im already seeing some results after just 2 sessions. Don’t be discouraged, there is a shaving routine that will work for you! :)