BY Stephen Handisides The Guardian
Always shave in or after a shower, using cream or oil – and don’t be tempted to get laser hair removal on your face
when you shave, preparation is key. That means having a really hot face cloth and soaking the area, or shaving in or just after a shower. The hot water and steam soften the hair and open the follicles for a closer, easier shave. Always use a shaving cream or oil. Use a shaving brush to create a rich lather to raise the hairs when applying and then let it sit on your face for a minute.
Shave with the grain for less irritation and make sure you don’t use disposable blades, as they can get blunted easily and cut your skin. Likewise, avoid using a cut-throat razor unless you are very experienced, as they can be dangerous and cut easily. After shaving, rinse with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Always make sure to finish off with your signature aftershave lotion to replace moisture and soothe the skin.
Laser hair removal has become more prevalent for men in recent years. It can be a great solution for getting rid of back or chest hair. However, I have seen younger people use it to shape their beards. Since it is permanent, I would caution against this, as it can mean you are unable to grow a different shape of beard later in life. It is also expensive and unpleasant to sit through – it can take up to 14 treatments to have a lasting effect.
Thick, manly brows can look great, but a monobrow doesn’t look good on anyone. Pluck random strays after a shower, when your pores are open, but before you moisturize – otherwise the hairs will be slippery. Using good-quality tweezers, pluck the middle between the eyes and any strays under and above the brow, but don’t overpluck. Avoid using fire-based hair removal for nasal and ear hair, as they do at the barber – nasal-hair trimmers will make that job a breeze at home.
Stephen Handisides is a male grooming expert. He was talking to Ammar Kalia
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