How to Shave Your Face and Take Care of Facial Hair

So, you know how to take care of your skin and your hair, but what about when you combine the two? That’s exactly what you’re dealing with when it comes to facial hair. Sadly, caring for facial hair isn’t quite as simple as mixing your shampoo with your serum; beards and mustaches have needs all their own. Whether you like a close shave or are growing out a luscious beard, keep reading for the ultimate guide on all things facial hair, from how to shave your face to the best facial hair style for you.

HOW TO SHAVE YOUR FACE

Thinking of shaving it all off? Or maybe you just want to clean things up a little. Either way, before you reach for a razor and nick your skin, make sure you know how to shave your face the right way.

TIP #1: WET YOUR SKIN

Have you ever tried shaving dry skin? Ouch! According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the first step in your shaving routine should be to wet your skin thoroughly with lukewarm water. Super-hot H2O can strip your skin of natural oils, leaving you with dry skin, which can make shaving uncomfortable. So, play it safe and turn down the dial.

TIP #2: APPLY SHAVING CREAM

While your skin is wet, apply an even layer of shaving cream or gel to the area you want to shave.

TIP #3: BE GENTLE

It’s easy to get rough when it comes to using a razor, but the AAD advises not pressing too hard when you shave. No one wants nicks!

TIP #4: USE AN AFTER-SHAVE PRODUCT

Once you’ve rinsed off your skin, smooth on the L’Oréal Paris Men Expert™ Hydra Energetic After Shave Balm, which is formulated to address signs of shaving discomfort such as razor burn, irritation, redness, tightness, and excessive dryness.

TIP #5: CHANGE BLADES ROUTINELY

The more you use a blade, the duller it will become—and the AAD states that it’s easier to cut yourself when the blade is dull. This also leads us back to tip three, because a fresh blade will require less pressure and lead to a gentler shave.

THE RIGHT FACIAL HAIR FOR YOUR FACE SHAPE

If you’re taking a break from the clean-shaven look and want to grow a mustache or beard, take your face shape into consideration. Just as specific haircuts suit different face shapes, facial hair does the same. That’s right—maybe that handlebar mustache isn’t the right choice for you. Find the perfect beard style for your face shape, below.

If you have a round face…good facial hair is akin to contouring. Grow out a beard, and suddenly, your face can seem long and lean. Leave your beard long on the bottom to draw the eye down and short on the sides so that you don’t add the look of unwanted volume to full cheeks.

If you have a square face…you can help make your look less block-like by choosing a style that’s focused on the chin. Opt for a goatee or another beard that’s longer below your lips to help lengthen the look of your face.

If you have a heart-shaped face…grow out a fuller beard. The fullness will help round out the look of a pointy chin. Alternatively, try a mustache to redirect focus from your chin to above your lip.

If you have a long face…a lengthy beard shouldn’t be your pick. Instead of elongating your face with grown out facial hair, opt for stubble that’s a little fuller on the sides to help create balance.

If you have an oval face…lucky you! Your face can handle almost any facial hairstyle. Feel free to experiment as you’d like!

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF FACIAL HAIR

Now that you have your perfect facial hair shape in mind, it’s time to get to grooming! Follow these tips to help keep your facial hair—and the skin underneath—looking and feeling its best.

TIP #1: WASH YOUR BEARD

Before you do anything with your facial hair, it’s always best to clean your beard. It is still hair, after all. And dealing with dirt, oil, and other impurities are no fun. Use a cleanser specifically designed for beards and lukewarm water to get clean. 

TIP #2: STAY MOISTURIZED

Whether we’re talking about skin, hair, or both, all good routines require moisture. When it comes to your beard, don’t just use any old moisturizer. Look for one meant for both your beard and skin, like the L’Oréal Paris Men Expert™ 3-Day Beard Moisturizer. This formula is enriched with facial hair softeners to help make facial hair feel softer. It also helps hydrate your skin, leaving your complexion feeling comfortable. Apply it onto clean skin morning or evening.

TIP #3: BRUSH AWAY

Contrary to popular belief, your beard needs brushing, too! After all, you don’t want your beard to look messy. Use a beard brush daily to keep your facial hair from being unruly.

TIP #4: TRIM REGULARLY

The trick to maintaining a beard that doesn’t look unkempt or out of control is regular trimming. Even if you’re working on obtaining more length, it’s a good idea to trim to help shape your facial hair. If you’re skilled with a pair of scissors, feel free to take matters into your own hands, or you can book an appointment with your barber.

TIP #5: USE THE RIGHT STYLING PRODUCTS

Another tip for taking care of facial hair is to use the right styling products. This means scoping out creams and pomades that are specifically formulated for your beard, like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Beard and Hair Cream. Formulated with ultra-moisturizing, non-greasy polymers for control and a natural look, you can use this multipurpose, one and done product for both your hair and beard. To apply, start with a dime-sized amount of cream, rub it between your palms, and work it through your beard to shape.

Next up: Congratulations, you’ve officially learned how to shave your face like a pro! Interested in finding a cool hairstyle to complement your shave? Head on over to our article, The Best Short Haircuts and Hairstyles for Men, for some inspo!