How To Shave Trim A Beard

If you're a man and you plan on giving up the clean shaven life, than it's time to learn how to shave trim a beard properly. Beards make you look more trustworthy, masculine, and gives you some added character to your style. Below are the things you will need and the steps to trim or shave your beard into a perfectly groomed creation.

You will need:

• A well lit sink with a mirror to work with
• Hair trimmer
• A razor of your choice
• Shaving cream with a mug and brush
   or shaving gel
• Conditioner
• (Optional) A separate mustache trimmer

1. First, decide the length and style of your beard. You may want a beard like Santa, a Chuck Norris-esque growth, or anything down to some simple stubble. If there's someone you plan on kissing regularly, you might want their input or you may find them not being so interested in making out.
2. Invest in a good trimmer, razor, and associated supplies. You're going to need some decent tools to get your hair looking good. Spend at least $20-30 on a trimmer and think of a safety razor or quality multi-blade (whatever you prefer). You should also buy the items that you find make the best shave: shaving cream or gel, a brush & mug, after shave, possibly a separate mustache trimmer, and any other supplies you like to have around.
3. Prep your face. Hot water will soften the hairs and make you ready to shave. If you've gotten any products for your prep, use those too.
4. Trim. Use the trimmer to get your beard down to the right length. This way, you'll be able to see what you're working with when you shave. If you're happy with your beard's length, skip to the next step. For longer hair, trim in the direction it grows; for shorter, trim against the growth. Also, trim your mustache to the length you want.
5. Lather up. If you're using cream, get a good lather going in your mug with the brush you've gotten. Work gel in your hands until it's ready. If you have a short beard, you can apply to your entire face. If it's long, just get it on the selected areas you plan to trim back.
6. Start shaving, slowly. Break out your razor and start slowly shaving in the direction the hair grows. Don't expect to get all the hair at once. You'll need to go over the area a few times. Remember, you don't want to irritate your skin, as that can lead to redness or ingrown hairs. Make sure you maintain symmetry with your beard, as you don't want to attract the wrong attention with your new facial hair.
7. Wash off the rest of the cream/gel. Use cold water to help close your pores and avoid acne or irritation. Also use cold water to clean your razor.
8. Wash your beard. You'll want to use a conditioner. You may prefer a beard conditioner over normal conditioner. This is something that is trial by error and you may want to get advice from whoever kisses you; they'll want your beard soft and friendly.
9. Enjoy your manly beard!