I get asked a lot of questions about grooming. So much so that a lot of what you read on this site is inspired by those very questions. One that I am asked more often than any other is… “Can my face handle a razor?”.
Now, most of the time this question is coming from men that have always shaved with electric shaving tools like trimmers, clippers or electric shavers (foil or rotary). But, a small number of them are also young men just trying to figure out “the whole shaving thing”, or guys that have always worn beards. Their primary reason for this question is to find out if their skin will react poorly to the use of a razor. The biggest fear 9 times out of 10 – ingrown hairs.
The most straight-forward short answer? The easiest way to determine whether the shaving process will work for them, is to first look at how their beard grows. If the majority of their beard grows in a direction that can be followed by a razor (with the grain), then the chances of irritation, especially ingrown hairs will be minimal. However, if shaving with the grain will be a challenge due the beard hair growing in several directions (i.e. towards the ear, nose, in circles…), then the chances of irritation increase. Of course, I’m not saying this to turn them (or you) away from trying out the razor, it’s simply a way of knowing what challenges if any, may present themselves.
I hope that helps!
Great piece Craig!
Don’t forget that sensible and appropriate preparation of the beard prior to shaving will also greatly reduce any irritation. Always use CIRCULAR motions when preparing the beard. This will ensure the hair stands up (rather than lays flat) which will, in turn, reduce the chances of ingrown hairs!
Perfect, thanks Village Barber!