From the clean-shaven to the heavily bearded, November is the month for men around the world to unite in the name of men’s health, and cultivate a mo’ to be proud of.
The now world-famous ‘Movember’ heralds the beginning of thirty days of experimental facial fuzz, with ‘Mo Bros’ doing their best to raise as many funds as they can for The Movember Foundation, in aid of testicular, penile and prostate cancers, as well as men’s mental health problems.
From the classic handlebar to the Charlie Chaplin-style toothbrush, there are all manner of eye-catching styles to choose from, but if this is your first time jumping on the moustache bandwagon then you’re going to need a few hints and tips to ensure that you get the best out of the month.
Removing excess hair
If you’re clean-shaven from the get-go, then your job is a reasonably easy one, with the toughest challenge you face being riding out the decidedly itchy growth phase. On the other end of the scale, bearded gents will have to set aside a little more time for a pruning session in preparation, removing all hair that doesn’t sit above the top lip. Of course, it isn’t compulsory that you do so, but as far as we’re concerned, you might as well embrace the cause and go for a stand-out look rather than a ‘tache that seems to be lost in the forest.
Before you start, you’ll want to trim down any unwanted hair to a manageable length, as this will facilitate an easier shave and avoid any unnecessary clogging when going in with the razor. Cut hairs as close to the skin as you safely can, taking care not to get too carried away, as the last thing you want is any unsightly damage to the face spoiling your look. When you’ve finished, slather on a generous layer of The Bluebeards Revenge Pre Shave Oil to soften and moisturise hairs, enhancing razor glide and preventing any nasty nicks or cuts when going in for the shave. Leave to soak for ten minutes for optimum results.
Next, whip your Taylor of Old Bond Street shaving cream into a rich lather, applying to the face using a good quality shaving brush such as The Bluebeards Revenge’s “Corsair” Super Badger Shaving Brush, as this will lift and coat each individual hair, making for a smoother and closer shave.
Remove excess hair with your chosen razor, using short strokes and going in – not against – the direction of hair growth, leaving only the hair that sits above your upper lip remaining.
Trimming your moustache
Whatever your chosen style, a well-groomed moustache is the look you want to achieve, so take the Kent Movember Moustache Comb and a splash of water and distribute evenly by combing hair downwards. Hold a pair of scissors parallel to the ends of the hair and trim all the way across, until your desired length is achieved. Be warned – hair appears somewhat shorter when dry, so leaving a little extra length is advisable just in case.
Styling your mo’
When it comes to a sharp moustache, the secret is in the styling, and the Captain Fawcett Sandalwood Moustache Wax will become your best friend. For longer styles, warm a small amount between your fingertips and smooth outwards and upwards for best results. If you’re going for something much shorter, apply a little for hold and comb through.