Sometimes we men can feel more like a wolf and less like a human. If left unattended for even just a few days, facial and body hair can act as a flashback to visions of our caveman descendants when hair and loin cloths were the number one accessory. It can seem overwhelming because hair is everywhere – our face, back, limbs, chests and even our feet. Some men make the decision to groom and maintain while others let it grow wild. I personally think that there is no need to shave it all off and go bare, however I do think that a controlled, neat, and selective hair removal regimen will keep you looking fresh, masculine and attractive. Are you a man who knows nothing about this topic? No problem, leave it to the experts.

Brows – The Thread Method

According to Simran Katyal Skincare at Andrew Steven Salon in Lindenhurst NY, hair removal for men can be a bigger challenge in general because men’s skin is thicker and the hair follicles have deeper roots. For a gent looking to start slow and give hair removal a try, I recommend brow threading. Clean brows make for a better face for all. Here is some insight of what the experience will be like:

There is a slight discomfort, more during the first time, but results last longer than waxing so visits are less frequent and save you money.

A thread is used to remove one hair at a time for a clean and groomed shape.

It takes about five minutes.

A shape that is more linear with a slight peak and thicker works great so be sure to communicate your preference.

After threading, a true pro will break out a mini brush and scissors for a brow trim. This helps to tame the wizard brow hairs that grow like wild weeds – we’ve all had them.

Your skin will be a little red, but that will subside in about 30 minutes.

Brow threading can cost between $12 and $20.

Face – The Hot Shave

Getting a good shave should be like getting a good haircut, but on your face. I am well aware of concerns from men who are hesitant to get a shave because they fear being cut up and irritated – and that can happen. As someone who has had a full beard for over 13 years, I can attest to all rituals, products, and barber shop experiences. Just like a hair stylist, it takes time to find the right barber to give you that optimal shave and it also will take them a visit or two to learn your sensitivities and preferences. My barber Nick of Rubens Barber Shop in Lake Ronkonkoma NY, always has his work cut out when I walk through that door. After going to him for quite a while now, he knows exactly what to do to minimize sensitivity and my preferences when it comes to shape. Here is how you can have a successful shave.

Before choosing a barber shop, check out the reviews. If there are none, be wary.

It is very helpful when you know your skin and you know the look you like. For example, if you are prone to razor burn on the neck area and you know this from personal shaving experiences, the barber will adjust his technique to achieve a smooth and close finish.

Just because you are getting a hot shave doesn’t mean you are removing your beard. Shaping is popular and can be just as beneficial as getting the perfect haircut. It can remove bulkiness, create well-defined edge, and even style your beard to complement your facial features.

The best part is the hot towel treatment. Close your eyes and relax while they treat your skin to a manly session of skin treatment and steam.

After the shave, ask the barber to show you the products they live by and take some home to use for personal shaving.

It’s true that men prefer minimal maintenance and can be wary about vanity, but when it comes to grooming, you could be a changed man after you have had a favorable experience. Throughout our busy week I consider grooming as personal time to relax and look great without much effort. Give it a try and I am sure you will really like what you see.