Shaving, Beard Grooming, and Facial Hair Services
Preparation and skin
A safe shave begins with sanitation of hands, tools, and chair, then draping with a neck strip and cape. Warm water and a moist towel soften the beard and open follicles; lather lubricates and lifts hair. Trap: shaving against the grain first - always shave with the grain on the first pass to reduce irritation and ingrown hairs.
Technique
Hold the razor at a shallow angle (about 30 degrees) and use short, light strokes. Stretch the skin to create a flat surface. Rinse the blade frequently. Finish with a cool towel to close follicles, then a soothing aftershave or moisturizer. Know the direction of beard growth varies by zone (neck, jaw, mustache, chin).
Beard and mustache shaping
Outline the beard to the natural jaw and cheek lines, not arbitrary ones. Trim with clippers or scissors following growth direction; blend neckline and sideburns. Use symmetry checks. Mustache trimming follows the lip line and nostril edge.
Safety and contraindications
Do not shave over moles, raised lesions, active acne, or irritated skin; refer if infection is suspected. Use fresh blades and never share razors. Recognize pseudofolliculitis barbae (razor bumps), common in curly hair - recommend shaving with the grain or trimming instead.
Worked rule of thumb
"Warm to open, cool to close, with the grain to avoid bumps." That phrase answers most shaving-safety questions.