The Idle Man Presents The Men's Grooming Guide The-Idle-Man-Presents-The-Mens-Grooming-Guide | Page 29

Photo Credit: CNBC Preparation is of paramount importance when it comes to your shave, and failing to take the necessary steps will undoubtedly result in the redness, irritation, and ingrowing hairs you are trying to avoid. A generous application of The Bluebeards Revenge’s Pre-Shave Oil is a good place to start, as this will soften and moisturise the hairs and skin, eliminating the coarse hairs and dry skin that can cause snagging and making for a smoother and easier shave. For the main event, whip up a rich lather using a good quality shaving cream and brush – we like Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream and the ‘Vanguard’ brush by The Bluebeards Revenge. Using the brush again to apply will further exfoliate the skin while lifting each individual hair, minimising the risk of any stray bits of stubble remaining trapped beneath the skin. Shaving with the grain – not against it – will help to prevent irritation. Photo Credit: My Home Improvement Inflammation and redness are due to a bacterial infection under the skin; so to nip it in the bud, apply a post-shave balm to finish. Jack Dean’s Aftershave Balm is a good choice, as well as cooling ingredients like cucumber and seaweed, it’s also packed with anti-bacterial ingredients such as 28