by Reuben Parker, Cut Cartel Barbers –
Old-fashioned shaving is having something of a renaissance. Men’s hair has also begun to embrace the traditional, with styles that wouldn’t look out of place on a 1920’s gentleman topping the list of requested cuts at barbershops. When it comes to grooming, paradoxically, the men of today may have more in common with their grandfathers than their fathers in the style and self-care department. There has also been a huge uptake in the consumption of men’s skin care products, traditionally a largely female market.
So what exactly should your grooming routine look like?
First and foremost, get a good barber. I’m biased, as a barber, but that’s not the reason I’m telling you this or at least it’s not the only reason. Your barber won’t just give you an awesome haircut: they will tailor it to your face shape and lifestyle. Barbers can also teach you how to properly style your hair, maintain your facial hair and how to shave properly. In addition they tend to offer style advice, and are trained to keep an eye out for skin conditions or other signs that may require intervention.
Regarding a good grooming routine: the next step is to shower regularly, but not excessively. Your skin is a delicate organ, and can easily be stripped of its natural oils, leading to a whole host of problems. Your hair is even more sensitive, and should be washed three times a week, on average. I recommend a shampoo specific to your hair type and condition.
As for shaving: immediately after the shower is the best time, which is the main reason for the hot towel service available in the shop. Showering softens the facial hair, making it easier to shave. Use a pre-shave lotion, as well as a lathering shave soap, and opt for a safety razor rather than a multiple blade razor. When used properly, safety razors cause less irritation, and are easier and safer than a straight razor (leave these to the professionals).
Follow with an aftershave or witch hazel to close the pores and reduce the risk of breakouts. If you have a beard, trim the stragglers with a pair of scissors and use a beard oil. Most will want to leave the full beard trim to their barber: it’s a tricky task to do at home.
A man should wash his face with a cleanser specifically designed for his skin type. Your face has a different pH than the rest of your body and is the last place you want skin problems. Exfoliate, but not too often. About once a week is sufficient. Moisturize. Seriously, just do it.
There are two things I want to impart regarding hair styling. Firstly, use a hair dryer. Your hair contains hydrogen bonds that are broken when the hair is wet, and reform when it dries. So if you comb your hair into its style while blow-drying, these bonds will reform in the direction of the desired position. This means your style will last longer, and require less product.
Which brings me to my final grooming tip. Apply your product, whether it be pomade, wax, clay, cream or gel, from the back forward. If you start at the front, you will inevitably overload in this area. Starting at the back ensures even distribution of product.
So there you have it. While the preceeding is by no means an exhaustive list, it’s a good outline that should have you well on your way to looking and feeling good.
