Get ready for Movember: Your guide to the perfect shave

Movember is here, and you're ready to join the movement, grow a magnificent moustache, and help change the face of men's health.

This annual challenge, however, starts with a crucial step: a clean shave.

Since you won't be seeing a razor for the rest of the month, now is the perfect time to give your skin some extra care.

A smooth start means a healthier, less irritated Movember journey.

Here are essential tips for prepping and pampering your skin before you start growing that moustache.

Phase 1: Skin prep

Before the final razor pass, you must prepare your hair and skin for the absolute closest shave possible.

This critical step minimises post-shave irritation and reduces the likelihood of immediate ingrown hairs as the stubble emerges.

• Buff away dead skin: Use a gentle facial exfoliant to scrub the area lightly. This clears away dead skin cells and lifts the hairs, preparing them for a clean cut. Focus particularly on your upper lip and chin, the main zones for facial hair growth.
• Introduce warmth: Apply a hot, moist towel to your face for a few minutes or shave directly after a warm shower. Heat and steam soften the hair and make the skin more pliable, reducing resistance and preventing the blade from dragging.
• Apply a protective layer: A quality pre-shave oil forms a lubricating barrier between your skin and the blade. This protective glide greatly reduces friction, leading to a much smoother experience with fewer nicks or red patches.

Phase 2: The perfect final shave

Movember requires you to start completely clean. Treat this final shaving ritual with deliberate care, focusing on technique to ensure the skin remains calm.

• Build a rich lather: Work up a dense shaving cream or gel. Using a shaving brush can help lift the hairs straight up, making it easier to achieve an extremely close shave.
• Maintain blade discipline: Use a new, sharp razor. Dull blades tug at the hair and cause irritation. Shave with the grain first, using minimal pressure and short, controlled strokes. For maximum smoothness, you may follow with a pass across the grain, but avoid going against it entirely, which is the fastest route to razor burn and bumps.
• Cool down the skin: Once finished, rinse your face with cold water to help close your pores and soothe the skin. Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel.

Phase 3: Recovery and foundation

Your skin needs instant attention to recover from the shave and establish a healthy base for the month of growth ahead.

Soothe, don't sting: Choose a moisturising, alcohol-free aftershave balm over a stinging splash. Balms containing natural soothing agents like aloe vera or shea butter help immediately reduce redness and inflammation.

Hydrate daily: Apply a high-quality face moisturiser twice daily to your entire face. Keeping the skin hydrated and supple prevents the dryness and flakiness that commonly accompany the initial itchy stage of new hair growth.

Don't forget sunscreen: Your skin, especially the upper lip, is now freshly exposed. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every morning to protect your skin from damage and ensure a healthy-looking canvas under your growing moustache.

Following these preparatory steps ensures your face is calm, protected, and ready to get through Movember.

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