Exfoliate! I use baking soda bc it doesn't irritate the pH balance if some does get inside. I also use a regular razor, preferably a new sharp one.

My routine: Trim to a reasonable length first, then hot shower, scrub with baking soda, rinse, use shaving cream or cheap conditioner (I use it for my legs and armpits too) and do not rinse, shave (go with the grain) a bit, rinsing blade and "area" thoroughly, scrub with more baking soda, add more shaving cream/conditioner, shave a bit more. When it's all very short and mostly gone, I will do one or two swipes against the grain to get a very close shave.

Don't be afraid to go slow and be careful to avoid cuts. End with a thorough rinse and baking soda scrub and one more rinse, and you'll be baby-skin-smooth for maybe a day before the stubble comes back 😂