Better make sure you won’t transform into Chewbacca’s twin this month.
For those of you that didn’t know, No-Shave November is a yearly tradition among men that started out as a month-long journey during which participants forgo shaving and grooming in order to evoke conversation and raise cancer awareness. So the rules are simple- put down your razor for 30 days and donate your monthly hair-maintenance expenses to the cause. Although this advocacy is based in Australia by NGO Movember, ordinary men and citizens from around the globe have followed suit in order to support the cause.
So whether you’ve given your full-pledged support for this month, all-year round or if growing out your beard has always been your thing, we’ve gathered some tips on how you can maintain your No-Shave November beard:
1. Let it Grow! Struggling to bring out the cave man in you? Give it time. Men aren't all blessed (or cursed) with the hairy gene. Give growth a solid eight weeks to make the most of the next tip:
2. Keep it Clean! Use a gentle soap to keep the skin underneath your face mane clean. It seems obvious but this goes a long way in terms of maintenance. We recommend Neutrogena’s Liquid Neutrogena facial wash (P150, Available at your nearest grocery store). This product has no fragrance and is suitable for all skin types.
3. Moisturize. If you think you're itching because of the unfamiliar facial hair, you're wrong. It's the skin underneath that's drying out. Virgin coconut oil is a cost-effective option since its abundant right where we live and has an array of benefits. But if you have oily skin and heavy oils or facial creams make you feel less manly than you already are, try Clean & Clear’s Oil-Free Essentials Moisturizer (P115, Available at your nearest grocery store).
4. Resist the Urge to DIY! Don’t try to start this process yourself. Once you've got some significant growth go get a straight shave and shaping. The barber will trim your beard to the perfect line, giving yourself reference when maintaining on your home.
5. Maintain the Lines. Every couple of days shave or trim up to the line on your cheeks and neck your barber established. Don't neglect the cheeks and ask your barber about how to appropriately tackle those areas. Be sure to get rid of neck hair too!
6. Don’t Rush! We are all in a hurry when the alarm goes off in the morning, but take a few extra minutes to care for the skin you're about to use your trusty razor. Before shaving, use a hot towel to open up the pores. Then lather up with a shaving cream and more of that beard oil or moisturizer. Then, shave with the grain, not against to avoid ingrown hairs. Then, use an aftershave. There are different kinds for different skin types. Find one that works best for you.
7. Rock It! Finally, a full beard on your once smooth mug! Make sure to treat it like the hair on your head. Shampoo and comb to avoid a rat's nest on your face- you're a professional, not a pirate. Also remember to head to the barber every couple of weeks for a trim once you've got a couple inches to maintain.
*Tips adapted from 9news.com.
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