Putting down your razor for No-Shave November? Good for you! You’re in good company—men all across the country participate in this month-long movement as a way of fundraising for men’s cancer research. The concept is simple: Men give up shaving and donate the money that they would normally spend on toiletries like razor cartridges, shaving cream, and aftershave to cancer research. Plus, the facial hair usually ends up being a conversation starter, so it’s a great way to raise awareness (and garner some sponsorships).
While the movement technically encourages men to forgo any and all trimming and grooming, let’s be real—you can raise awareness without forsaking hygiene and style. In fact, the No-Shave November movement welcomes participation of any kind, so even men who have to maintain a certain appearance (like those with strict office dress codes) can grow a beard for a good cause.
For those who are dealing with facial hair for the first time, there might be a few surprises. Here’s what you should know ahead of time…
In some ways, facial hair can be better for your health than a smoothly shaved face, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Depending on the density and thickness of your hair, it can protect you from sunburn and windburn. It can also help keep you stay warm in cold weather by insulating your face.
However, your facial hair can also turn into a source of bacteria if you neglect it. Be sure to shampoo your beard every time you shower, and scrub deep down to ensure you’re removing any dead skin cells or germs lurking under the hair. Opt for a moisturizing shampoo that won’t dry out your hairs too much.
Give your beard a thorough brushing at least once a day with a fine-toothed comb. This will push all the hairs to grow straight in the same direction and will prevent them from getting unruly.
After your beard has been growing in for a week, give yourself an assessment in the mirror. You will be able to identify the general shape and thickness of your facial hair, and whether you have any places that are patchy. Use a pair of clippers to trim it, starting with a higher guard number and taking it shorter until you’ve reached your preferred length.
Spread a towel across the sink under your trimmer before you do any work; otherwise, you’ll wind up with a sink full of whiskers.
A guard number 3 or 5 is usually a good length—it will leave your facial hair long enough to be noticeable but short enough that it’s still acceptable under most dress codes. If you want to make a bolder style statement, feel free to go a little bit longer.
Use closer guards around your Adam’s apple and below your jawline. Use a guard number 1 and then fade with the rest of your beard using a guard number 2.
Be sure to avoid a “neckbeard,” the term used to describe when a guy lets the hair on his neck grow too thick and unruly. Use your finger to trace an imaginary line from one side of your jaw, across your Adam’s apple, to the other side of your jaw. Clean up all the hair below this line with either a razor or the naked guard on your trimmer.
Finally, be sure to use natural beard oil or beard balm after trimming and cleaning. This will keep your hairs supple. There are different beard oils on the market, so you might need to try several options to find the one that’s right for you—some might be too heavy or shiny for your preference. You can also use olive oil if that’s more convenient.
Learn more about the No-Shave November movement and register your fundraising page at www.no-shavenovember.com.
